When it comes to classic desserts, nothing beats the comfort and warmth of a homemade apple crisp. This recipe delivers tender, spiced apples beneath a buttery, crunchy oat topping. Perfect for fall but delightful any time of year, it’s a dessert everyone will request again and again. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for the ultimate treat. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, this apple crisp recipe is foolproof, quick to prepare, and absolutely delicious.
Ingredients
For the Apple Filling:
- 6 medium apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
For the Crisp Topping:
- 1 cup old-fashioned oats
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Preparation
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or similar-sized casserole dish. - Prepare the Apple Filling:
Peel, core, and slice the apples into 1/4-inch slices. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
Add granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice to the apples. Toss until the apples are well coated. Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. - Make the Crisp Topping:
In a medium bowl, combine oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Pour the melted butter over the mixture and stir until crumbly. - Assemble and Bake:
Sprinkle the oat topping evenly over the apple mixture.
Bake in the preheated oven for 40–45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are bubbling. - Serve:
Allow the crisp to cool for 5–10 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm, topped with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
Variation
- Pecan Apple Crisp: Stir 1/2 cup chopped pecans into the oat topping for added crunch and nuttiness.
- Gluten-Free Apple Crisp: Replace the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
- Caramel Apple Crisp: Drizzle caramel sauce over the apples before adding the topping for an extra layer of sweetness.
Cooking Note
- Choose firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best texture. A mix of tart and sweet apples enhances the flavor.
- To prevent browning, toss sliced apples in lemon juice immediately after cutting.
Serving Suggestions
Apple crisp is best enjoyed warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a more decadent dessert, drizzle caramel sauce over each serving. Pair it with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or cider for a cozy treat.
Tips
- Make Ahead: You can assemble the apple filling and topping separately. Store them in the refrigerator and assemble just before baking.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain the crisp topping.
- Freezing: Freeze unbaked apple crisp for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking as directed.
Prep Time, Cooking Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 58g
- Fat: 12g
- Sodium: 120mg
FAQs
Can I use instant oats instead of old-fashioned oats?
A: While instant oats can be used, they may result in a softer topping. Old-fashioned oats are recommended for the Best Apple Crisp texture.
Do I need to peel the apples?
A: Peeling the apples is recommended for a smoother texture, but you can leave the skin on for added fiber and rustic appeal.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
A: Yes! Replace the butter with a plant-based alternative like vegan butter or coconut oil.
Conclusion
The Best Apple Crisp Recipe is a timeless dessert that combines simplicity with unbeatable flavor. Whether you’re serving it to guests or indulging in a quiet evening treat, this recipe will always deliver. Make it your own with creative variations, and enjoy the warmth and comfort of homemade apple crisp today!