Apple crisp is a warm, comforting dessert made with tender, cinnamon-spiced apples and a crispy, buttery oat topping. It’s easy to make, requires simple pantry ingredients, and pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. This classic fall dessert is sure to become a family favorite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to make – No complicated steps or special equipment needed.
- Crispy and buttery topping – A perfect contrast to the soft, baked apples.
- Customizable – Add nuts, caramel, or different spices to suit your taste.
- Great for any occasion – Perfect for holidays, gatherings, or a cozy night in.
- Delicious with ice cream – A warm dessert that pairs beautifully with a cold scoop of vanilla.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Apple Filling:
- Apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji), peeled and sliced
- Sugar (granulated or brown)
- Cinnamon
- Nutmeg (optional)
- Lemon juice
- Vanilla extract
- Cornstarch or flour (to thicken)
For the Crisp Topping:
- Old-fashioned oats
- All-purpose flour
- Brown sugar
- Butter (cold and cubed)
- Cinnamon
- Salt
- Chopped nuts (optional – walnuts or pecans)
Directions
- Preheat the oven – Set to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
- Prepare the apple filling – In a large bowl, toss sliced apples with sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, vanilla, and cornstarch. Spread evenly in the greased baking dish.
- Make the crisp topping – In another bowl, mix oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Cut in the butter using a pastry cutter or fingers until crumbly. Stir in nuts if using.
- Assemble – Sprinkle the oat topping evenly over the apples.
- Bake – Bake for 40-45 minutes until the apples are soft and the topping is golden brown.
- Cool and serve – Let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm with ice cream or whipped cream!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6-8
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Variations
- Caramel Apple Crisp – Drizzle caramel sauce over the apples before baking.
- Nut-Free Version – Simply omit the nuts in the topping.
- Gluten-Free – Use gluten-free oats and substitute flour with almond or oat flour.
- Extra Crunchy Topping – Add more oats and an extra tablespoon of butter.
- Mixed Fruit Crisp – Combine apples with pears, cranberries, or berries for a twist.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or microwave for 30 seconds.
- Freezing: Freeze unbaked or baked for up to 3 months. Thaw before baking or reheating.
FAQs
What are the best apples for apple crisp?
Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Pink Lady apples hold up well when baked.
Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats?
Old-fashioned oats give a better texture, but quick oats can be used for a softer topping.
How do I prevent a soggy apple crisp?
Use firm apples and don’t overmix the filling—excess liquid can make it watery.
Can I make apple crisp ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble and store unbaked in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
What can I serve with apple crisp?
Vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, caramel sauce, or a dusting of powdered sugar.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes! Use coconut oil or vegan butter instead of regular butter.
How do I make my crisp topping extra crispy?
Bake uncovered and add a few extra minutes if needed until golden brown.
Can I reduce the sugar?
Yes, use less sugar in the filling or swap brown sugar with maple syrup for a natural sweetness.
Do I need to peel the apples?
Peeling makes the texture softer, but you can leave the skin on for extra fiber.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes! Use a larger baking dish and increase baking time by 5-10 minutes.
Conclusion
Apple crisp is a warm, cozy, and incredibly easy dessert that’s perfect for any time of year. With its sweet cinnamon-spiced apples and crunchy oat topping, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit. Serve it warm with ice cream and enjoy a comforting homemade treat!
Print
Apple Crisp Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6-8 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Description
This Apple Crisp is warm, cozy, and packed with tender cinnamon-spiced apples, topped with a buttery, crunchy oat crumble. It’s easier than pie and perfect for a fall dessert, holiday gathering, or anytime you crave a comforting treat. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream!
Ingredients
For the Apple Filling:
- 6 cups apples (about 5–6 medium, peeled & sliced thin – Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji work best)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (prevents browning & adds brightness)
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg (optional, for warmth)
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (helps thicken the juices)
For the Crisp Topping:
- 1 cup old-fashioned oats
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (light or dark, packed)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter (melted)
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional, for extra crunch)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Apple Filling
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, toss apple slices with sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cornstarch.
- Transfer to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Make the Crisp Topping
- In a medium bowl, mix oats, flour, brown sugar, salt, and cinnamon.
- Stir in melted butter until the mixture forms crumbly clumps.
- Add chopped nuts, if using.
Step 3: Assemble & Bake
- Evenly sprinkle the crisp topping over the apple mixture.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, until golden brown and bubbly.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy!
- Let cool for 10 minutes before serving.
- Serve warm with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or caramel drizzle.
Notes
- More Crunch? Use ½ cup granola in the topping.
- Less Sugar? Reduce sugar in apples to ¼ cup for a more tart crisp.
- Gluten-Free? Use almond flour or gluten-free flour blend.
- Make Ahead: Assemble and refrigerate uncooked for 24 hours, then bake fresh!