Easy Apple Crisp Recipe: The Perfect Winter Dessert!
Apple Crisp is the ultimate fall/winter dessert that brings together tender, cinnamon-spiced apples and a crunchy, buttery topping. It’s perfect for cozy evenings and family gatherings, especially when served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Follow along for a quick, delicious apple crisp recipe that’s sure to impress!
Why You’ll Love This Apple Crisp
Apple Crisp is an easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing dessert that takes minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. It has the ideal balance of textures: soft, juicy apples meet a crispy, golden topping for a delightful contrast.
Ingredients for Apple Crisp
Gather these ingredients to get started:
For the Apple Filling:
- 6 large apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are best)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
For the Crisp Topping:
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup old-fashioned oats
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Pro Tip: Granny Smith apples provide a tart flavor that balances the sweetness of the topping, while Honeycrisp apples add extra juiciness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8-inch baking dish. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Apples
- Peel, core, and slice the apples into thin wedges.
- In a large bowl, toss the apple slices with granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice until they’re evenly coated.
Step 3: Make the Crisp Topping
- In a separate bowl, mix together flour, oats, brown sugar, salt, and melted butter until combined. The mixture should be crumbly but stick together when pressed.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
- Place the apple mixture into the greased baking dish.
- Spread the oat topping evenly over the apples, making sure it covers the entire surface.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are bubbling around the edges.
Pro Tip: If the topping browns too quickly, cover the dish loosely with foil during the last 10-15 minutes of baking.
Serving Suggestions
Let the apple crisp cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows the filling to set slightly and makes for easier scooping.
Perfect Pairing: Vanilla Ice Cream
A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream pairs perfectly with the warm apple crisp, creating a delicious contrast of warm and cool textures.
Variations to Try
- Add Chopped Nuts: Mix 1/4 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts into the topping for extra crunch.
- Use Different Fruits: Try adding sliced pears or berries for a twist on the classic apple flavor.
- Go Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and oats for a gluten-free dessert that’s just as tasty!
Tips for Storing and Reheating
- Store Leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 15 minutes, or until warmed through, to keep the topping crispy.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Apple Crisp is a timeless dessert that’s perfect for fall, winter, or anytime you crave a warm, comforting treat. With its delicious balance of sweet apples and a crunchy topping, it’s sure to become a favorite!
