Description
Apple crisp is a timeless dessert that perfectly embodies comfort. Combining tender, spiced apples with a crispy, buttery topping, this old-fashioned apple crisp is a delightful way to celebrate the flavors of fall. This recipe is easy to make, requires minimal ingredients, and results in a dessert that’s warm, fragrant, and incredibly satisfying. Whether served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or enjoyed on its own, this apple crisp is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. From the crunch of the topping to the juicy, cinnamon-spiced apples beneath, every bite brings warmth and nostalgia. Let’s dive into this classic dessert that’s both simple and bursting with flavor.
Ingredients
For the Apple Filling:
- 6–8 large apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and sliced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour (to thicken the filling)
For the Crisp Topping:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes
- 1/2 tsp salt
- Optional: 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon for extra flavor in the topping
Serving Suggestions:
- Vanilla ice cream
- Whipped cream
Instructions
- Prepare the Apples
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Peel, core, and slice the apples into ¼-inch slices for even cooking. Place them in a large mixing bowl and drizzle with lemon juice to prevent browning and add a hint of brightness. - Add the Spices and Sugar
To the apples, add the granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, and flour. Gently toss everything together until the apple slices are evenly coated. The flour will help thicken the juices released by the apples as they bake, creating a slightly saucy filling. Pour the apple mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out in an even layer. - Make the Crisp Topping
In a separate bowl, combine the oats, flour, brown sugar, salt, and ground cinnamon (if using). Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized pieces of butter. The butter will melt and create a crispy, buttery topping as it bakes. - Assemble and Bake
Sprinkle the topping evenly over the apple filling, covering it completely. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown and crisp. - Serve Warm
Allow the apple crisp to cool slightly before serving. This helps the filling set a bit. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a classic touch.
- Prep Time: 15mins
- Cook Time: 45mins