Apple Crisp Recipe

Why You’ll Love Apple Crisp Recipe

This apple crisp recipe is a timeless favorite because it’s simple to prepare, requires minimal ingredients, and delivers comforting, home-baked flavor. Whether you’re serving it after a holiday dinner or enjoying it on a quiet night in, this dessert feels special. It’s also highly customizable—great with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or even a dollop of whipped cream.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp recommended)

• Granulated sugar

• Brown sugar

• Ground cinnamon

• Nutmeg

• All-purpose flour

• Old-fashioned rolled oats

• Unsalted butter

• Lemon juice

• Salt

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Peel, core, and slice the apples thinly, then toss them with lemon juice, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a large bowl.

3. Transfer the apple mixture into a greased baking dish.

4. In another bowl, mix together flour, oats, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture becomes crumbly.

5. Sprinkle the oat topping evenly over the apples.

6. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are bubbly and tender.

7. Let it cool slightly before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6 to 8 people.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour

Variations

• Add nuts: Incorporate chopped pecans or walnuts into the topping for added crunch.

• Make it gluten-free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

• Add berries: Mix in raspberries, cranberries, or blueberries for a fruity twist.

• Use different apples: Mix sweet and tart apple varieties for more depth of flavor.

• Spice it up: Try adding ginger or cardamom to the spice mix for a unique flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover apple crisp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, or microwave individual portions for 30-60 seconds until heated through.

FAQs

How do I keep the apple crisp topping from getting soggy?

Make sure your apples aren’t too juicy and that the topping is well-balanced with butter and dry ingredients. Baking it uncovered also helps keep the topping crisp.

Can I make apple crisp ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it in advance and refrigerate it unbaked for up to 24 hours. Bake it just before serving for the best texture.

What are the best apples to use for apple crisp?

Tart apples like Granny Smith or a mix of sweet and tart varieties such as Honeycrisp and Fuji work best.

Can I freeze apple crisp?

Yes, you can freeze baked apple crisp. Let it cool completely, then wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven before serving.

Should I peel the apples?

Peeling the apples gives a softer texture, but you can leave the peels on if you prefer a more rustic and fiber-rich dessert.

What if I don’t have oats?

You can make a topping with just flour, sugar, and butter, though it will be more like a streusel than a crisp.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative like coconut oil or vegan butter.

How do I know when it’s done baking?

The topping should be golden brown and the apple filling should be bubbling around the edges.

Can I use canned apples?

Fresh apples are recommended for the best flavor and texture, but canned apples can work in a pinch—just drain them well.

Is it better served warm or cold?

Apple crisp is best served warm, especially with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

Conclusion

This apple crisp recipe is everything a comforting dessert should be—warm, sweet, spiced just right, and topped with a golden crunch. It’s easy to make, endlessly adaptable, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering or a casual weeknight, this is a go-to dessert you’ll come back to again and again.