Apple Crisp

I love when the weather starts to cool just a little bit because that’s when I find myself craving warm desserts with spiced fruit and golden toppings so that’s exactly what led me to make this apple crisp again last weekend. I remember the first time I made it because I was in a rush to prepare something for a casual get-together and I had a bowl of apples that were going soft so rather than toss them I peeled and sliced them and threw this together and it’s been a go-to ever since.

From the very first spoonful I knew this was going to become a seasonal favorite since the tender cinnamon apples melt into a cozy syrupy base while the buttery oat topping turns golden and crisp and perfectly textured and now I find any excuse to make it because it’s so simple and satisfying.

Ingredients

Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!

• Apples – The star of the show! They provide a naturally sweet and tart base that softens beautifully when baked.
• Brown sugar – Adds a deep, molasses-like sweetness to both the apples and the topping.
• Ground cinnamon – Essential for that warm, autumn spice that defines apple desserts.
• Nutmeg – Just a pinch enhances the spice and makes the apples feel extra cozy.
• Lemon juice – Prevents the apples from browning and adds a nice bright contrast to the sweetness.
• Old-fashioned oats – Create the crumbly and chewy topping that gives the crisp its signature texture.
• All-purpose flour – Helps bind the topping together so it bakes up golden and firm.
• Unsalted butter – Adds richness and melts into the topping to make it deliciously crisp.
• Salt – A small pinch balances all the sweet and brings out the flavor of the apples.

Tools You’ll Need

• Peeler – Makes peeling apples quick and easy.
• Sharp knife – For slicing apples evenly so they bake uniformly.
• Mixing bowls – You’ll need two: one for the apple filling and another for the crisp topping.
• Casserole dish (or baking dish) – This is where everything comes together and bakes to golden perfection.
• Pastry cutter or fork – Useful for cutting the butter into the flour and oat mixture.
• Oven mitts – Keeps your hands safe when pulling the hot dish from the oven.

Instructions

Step 1:

I start by preheating the oven to 350°F so it’s ready to go once I’ve assembled everything.

Step 2:

While the oven heats, I peel and slice about 6 medium apples. I like to slice them thinly so they bake evenly and soften well.

Step 3:

I toss the apples in a large bowl with lemon juice, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. I make sure everything is coated evenly.

Step 4:

Next, I spread the apple mixture into a greased baking dish, making sure they lay flat and are evenly distributed.

Step 5:

In another bowl, I mix the oats, flour, more brown sugar, and a touch of salt. Then I cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Step 6:

I sprinkle the oat topping evenly over the apples, pressing it down slightly to help it stick during baking.

Step 7:

I bake the crisp for about 40–45 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the apple filling is bubbling around the edges.

Step 8:

I let it cool slightly before serving because it tastes best warm but not scalding. That’s when the flavors really shine!

Tips

If I’m short on time, I leave the apple skins on for a bit of extra texture and fiber.

Sometimes I add chopped pecans or walnuts to the topping for extra crunch.

I’ve also tried this with a mix of apples and pears, and it turned out beautifully.

A scoop of vanilla ice cream on top? Always worth it.

Ways to Serve

Warm with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream

With a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence

Cold the next day for breakfast with a dollop of Greek yogurt

Topped with whipped cream and crushed nuts for a holiday touch

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Apple Crisp ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble it a day in advance and keep it in the fridge until ready to bake.

What are the best apples to use in Apple Crisp?

I like using a mix of tart and sweet apples like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp for balance and texture.

Can I make Apple Crisp gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just use a gluten-free flour blend and certified gluten-free oats.

How do I store leftover Apple Crisp?

I cover it and keep it in the fridge for up to 4 days. I reheat it in the oven or microwave before serving.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you give this apple crisp a try! It’s one of my favorite simple bakes for when I want something warm, comforting, and crowd-pleasing. Let me know how yours turns out or what twist you gave it! You can even pin it to your fall dessert board to make again next season.

Happy Cooking!

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