Easy Apple Crisp Recipe

Craving a warm, comforting dessert that screams fall? This easy apple crisp recipe is your answer! With tender, cinnamon-spiced apples and a buttery, crunchy oat topping, it’s the perfect balance of sweet and tart. Ready in just 45 minutes, this budget-friendly dessert is ideal for cozy family dinners or holiday gatherings. It’s naturally vegetarian and can be adapted to be gluten-free or vegan with simple swaps. Growing up, my grandmother’s apple crisp was a Sunday tradition, filling the house with the irresistible aroma of baked apples and spices. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned baker, this recipe is foolproof and packed with flavor. Let’s dive into how to make an easy apple crisp that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredients

Here’s everything you need to make this delicious apple crisp, listed in order of use with substitutions for dietary preferences.

For the Apple Filling:

• 6 medium apples, peeled and sliced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp recommended; see “What Apples Are Best for Apple Crisp” below)
• 2 tbsp lemon juice (or orange juice for a milder citrus flavor)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar (or coconut sugar for a lower glycemic option)
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon (or 1/2 tsp cinnamon + 1/2 tsp nutmeg for extra warmth)
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1 tbsp all-purpose flour (or cornstarch for gluten-free)

For the Crisp Topping:

• 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats (or gluten-free oats; see “Can You Make Apple Crisp Without Oats” for alternatives)
• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour (or almond flour for gluten-free)
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed (or maple syrup for a refined sugar-free version)
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted (or coconut oil for vegan/dairy-free)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional, for extra flavor)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a perfectly baked apple crisp with a golden, crispy topping.

1. Prepare the apples: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Peel and slice the apples into 1/4-inch thick wedges. In a large bowl, toss the apples with lemon juice, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and flour until evenly coated. Spread the apple mixture into a greased 9×9-inch baking dish.
2. Make the crisp topping: In a medium bowl, combine oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Pour in melted butter and vanilla (if using), stirring until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Assemble the crisp: Sprinkle the topping evenly over the apples, ensuring all apples are covered. Gently press down to compact the topping slightly.
4. Bake the apple crisp: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, until the topping is golden brown and the apples are bubbling. (See “How Long to Bake Apple Crisp” for more details.)
5. Serve warm: Let the crisp cool for 5-10 minutes. For additional indulgence, serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream!

What Apples Are Best for Apple Crisp?

Choosing the right apples is key to a flavorful apple crisp. Granny Smith apples are a top choice for their tartness, which balances the sweet topping. Honeycrisp offers a sweet-tart flavor and holds its shape well during baking. Jonagold or Braeburn are also great for a mix of sweet and tart. Avoid softer types like Red Delicious, as they can get mushy.. Combine tart and sweet apples (e.g., half Granny Smith, half Honeycrisp) for the best texture and flavor. Always peel the apples for a smoother filling, and slice them uniformly to ensure even cooking.

Can You Make Apple Crisp Without Oats?

Yes, you can make a delicious apple crisp without oats! If you’re avoiding oats due to dietary restrictions or preference, substitute them with crushed nuts (like almonds or pecans) or extra flour for a more traditional crumble topping. For a grain-free version, try using almond flour or coconut flakes. Keep the butter-to-dry ingredient ratio the same to maintain that crispy texture. For example, replace 1 cup of oats with 3/4 cup almond flour and 1/4 cup chopped nuts. The result is just as crunchy and flavorful, perfect for gluten-free or oat-free diets.

How Long to Bake Apple Crisp?

The baking time for apple crisp depends on your oven and dish size. At 350°F (175°C), a 9×9-inch dish typically takes 35-40 minutes. The topping should be golden brown, and the apple filling should be bubbling around the edges. If the topping browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil to prevent burning. For a larger 9×13-inch dish, extend the baking time to 45-50 minutes. To check doneness, pierce the apples with a fork—they should be tender but not mushy. Let the crisp rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the juices to settle.

What Spices Go in Apple Crisp?

Spices elevate the flavor of apple crisp, giving it that warm, cozy vibe. Cinnamon is the star, adding sweetness and depth. Nutmeg brings a subtle, nutty warmth, while allspice or cloves (use sparingly, about 1/8 tsp) can add complexity. For a modern twist, try a pinch of cardamom for a floral note. Stick to 1-2 tsp total spices in the filling to avoid overpowering the apples. In the topping, a dash of cinnamon enhances the buttery flavor. Adjust to your taste, but keep the spices balanced to let the apples shine.

Why Is My Apple Crisp Soggy?

A soggy apple crisp can be disappointing, but it’s easy to fix! Common culprits include:

• Too much liquid: Apples release juice during baking. Toss them with 1-2 tbsp flour or cornstarch to thicken the filling.
• Underbaking: If the crisp isn’t baked long enough, the juices won’t reduce. Ensure you bake until the filling bubbles (see “How Long to Bake Apple Crisp”).
• Too much butter: Excess butter in the topping can make it dense. Stick to the recommended 1/2 cup for a 9×9 dish.
• Improper apple choice: Soft apples like McIntosh can turn mushy. Opt for firmer varieties (see “What Apples Are Best for Apple Crisp”).

To prevent sogginess, ensure even apple slices and don’t skip the thickening agent in the filling.

How to Store Leftover Apple Crisp

Does apple crisp need to be refrigerated? Yes, for food safety and freshness, store leftover apple crisp in the refrigerator. Place it in an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days. To keep the topping crispy, avoid stacking heavy items on top. If you’re storing a large batch, portion it into smaller containers for easier reheating.

How to Reheat Apple Crisp

To revive the crisp’s texture, reheat apple crisp in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, loosely covered with foil to prevent over-browning. For single servings, use a microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, but note that the topping may soften. For best results, add a sprinkle of fresh oats or nuts before reheating in the oven to restore crunch. Serve warm with ice cream for that just-baked feel.

Can You Freeze Apple Crisp Before Baking?

Yes, you can freeze apple crisp before baking for a convenient make-ahead dessert. Assemble the crisp in a freezer-safe dish, but don’t bake it. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap, then foil, to prevent freezer burn. Label with the date—it will keep for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as directed, adding 5-10 minutes if still slightly cold. Alternatively, bake straight from frozen at 350°F for 50-60 minutes, covering with foil if the topping browns too quickly.

Nutrition Information

This apple crisp is a relatively light dessert, perfect for health-conscious eaters. Based on 8 servings:

• Calories: 280 per serving
• Protein: 3g
• Carbs: 42g
• Fat: 12g

Final Thoughts

This easy apple crisp recipe is a must-try for fall or any time you crave a warm, comforting dessert. With its buttery, crunchy topping and tender spiced apples, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s simple to make and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or enjoying a quiet night in, this dessert delivers big on flavor with minimal effort. Try it with your favorite apples, tweak the spices, or make it gluten-free—whatever you choose, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Happy baking!

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