Nothing says comfort like a warm Apple Crisp. With tender apples, a buttery, crumbly topping, and just the right amount of cinnamon spice, this dessert is a fall favorite—and it’s incredibly easy to make! Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in, Apple Crisp is always a hit, especially when topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Ready to fill your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of baked apples and cinnamon? Let’s get started!
Ingredients List: Everything You Need for the Perfect Apple Crisp
For a crisp that’s golden, spiced, and just sweet enough, here’s the essential list of ingredients.
For the Apple Filling: Sweet, Tender, and Spiced
- 6 medium apples (such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji), peeled and sliced – The heart of the crisp; a mix of tart and sweet apples works best.
- ¼ cup granulated sugar – Adds a touch of sweetness.
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon – For warmth and spice.
- 1 tbsp lemon juice – To enhance the apple flavor and prevent browning.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract – Adds depth to the filling.
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour – Helps thicken the filling slightly.
For the Topping: Buttery, Crunchy, and Perfectly Crisp
- ¾ cup rolled oats – Adds texture and crunch.
- ½ cup all-purpose flour – The base of the crumbly topping.
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed – Adds a caramel-like sweetness.
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon – For an extra layer of spice.
- ¼ tsp salt – Enhances all the flavors.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed – For a rich, buttery topping.
Optional Toppings
- Vanilla ice cream – Because warm apple crisp and cold ice cream are a perfect match.
- Caramel sauce – For an extra touch of indulgence.
Equipment Needed: Tools for a Perfect Apple Crisp
You won’t need much to make this comforting dessert—just a few basics.
- 9×9-inch or 8×8-inch baking dish – For even baking.
- Mixing bowls – For the apple filling and topping.
- Pastry cutter or fork – For mixing the crumb topping.
- Peeler and knife – For preparing the apples.
Instructions: Step-by-Step Guide to a Cozy Apple Crisp
Follow these step-by-step instructions to make an Apple Crisp that’s golden, warm, and bursting with flavor.
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your baking dish with a little butter or nonstick spray.
- Prepare the Apple Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced apples, granulated sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and flour. Toss until the apples are evenly coated, then transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
- Make the Topping: In a separate bowl, mix together the oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or fork to cut it into the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add the Topping: Sprinkle the oat mixture evenly over the apples in the baking dish, covering the entire surface.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apple filling is bubbly.
- Cool Slightly: Remove the crisp from the oven and let it cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld and makes it easier to scoop.
- Serve with Toppings: Spoon the warm apple crisp into bowls and top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence.
Cooking Time and Serving Size: Ready to Satisfy Your Sweet Cravings
Here’s the time breakdown and serving size for this delicious Apple Crisp:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Serving Size: Serves 6-8
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: ~300 | Protein: 2g | Carbs: 45g | Fat: 13g
Tips and Variations: Make This Apple Crisp Your Own
Apple Crisp is easy to customize! Here are some tips and variations to make it exactly how you like.
- Add Nuts: Toss ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts into the topping for added crunch.
- Use Different Fruits: Try mixing in pears, berries, or peaches with the apples for a unique twist.
- Make it Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free oats and a gluten-free flour blend in the topping.
- Extra Spice: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ground ginger to the topping for an extra layer of warmth.
Presentation Tips: Serve Apple Crisp Like a Pro
For a rustic look, serve the apple crisp directly from the baking dish. Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top of each portion and garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a drizzle of caramel sauce. It’s simple, cozy, and sure to impress!
Apple Crisp FAQs: Your Questions Answered
New to making Apple Crisp? Here are answers to common questions to help you get perfect results every time.
- Can I make Apple Crisp ahead of time? Yes! You can assemble it and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Bake it fresh when you’re ready to enjoy.
- Can I reheat leftovers? Absolutely. Warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or microwave individual portions.
- What are the best apples for Apple Crisp? A mix of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp works well for a balance of tart and sweet flavors.
Cozy Up with a Warm Bowl of Apple Crisp
This Apple Crisp recipe is everything you want in a cozy dessert: it’s warm, comforting, and packed with flavor. With its tender apples and crunchy topping, it’s perfect for family gatherings, special occasions, or just because you deserve a treat. So grab your baking dish, whip up this easy crisp, and enjoy the delicious simplicity of homemade Apple Crisp. Happy baking!
