September 27, 2024
Review RecipeApple Crisp
Table of Contents
- Everything You Need to Know
- Apple Crisp Ingredients
- How To Make This Apple Crisp Recipe
- Oatmeal Apple Crisp Recipe Substitutions and Additions
- More Troubleshooting Tips For Making the Perfect Apple Crumble Recipe
- How To Serve Apple and Oats Crumble
- How To Store Apple Crisp
- Why This Easy Apple Crisp Recipe is the Best
- Apple Crisp Frequently Asked Questions
- More Apple Desserts You’ll Love
- JUMP TO RECIPE
- Even More Great Recipe Ideas You’ll Love
Few things say “comfort food” like a piping hot apple crisp fresh from the oven. This old-fashioned recipe combines the timeless flavors of apples, cinnamon, and a buttery, golden-brown topping. With its sweet, comforting aroma and delightful crunch, it’s no wonder this dessert has been a staple for generations. It’s an effortless way to bring a touch of nostalgia to your table.
Everything You Need to Know
MAIN INGREDIENTS: Granny Smith apples, light brown sugar, all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, vanilla extract, quick-cooking oats, unsalted butter.
QUICK STEPS: Preheat oven, prepare apple filling, transfer filling to baking dish, make crisp topping, combine oats and butter, cover apples with topping, bake until golden brown and bubbly, and let cool before serving.
TOTAL TIME AND YIELD: 1 hour 5 minutes, serves 8.
Why This Recipe
- This apple crisp recipe stands out with its double layer of warm spices in both the apple filling and the crisp topping, delivering rich, well-rounded flavor in every bite.
- The use of quick-cooking oats ensures a perfectly crispy, golden topping that contrasts beautifully with the tender, spiced apples.
- With the ideal balance of texture and flavor, this recipe offers a superior apple crisp experience.
Apple Crisp Ingredients
You’ll need:
For the Apple Filling:
- 10 cups Granny Smith apples peeled, cored, and sliced into ⅛ inch thick slices, then cut the slices in half
- ½ cup light brown sugar
- ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Crisp Topping:
- 1 ⅓ cups quick cooking oats
- 1 ⅓ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¾ cup unsalted butter
How To Make This Apple Crisp Recipe
Creating a delicious apple crisp is as simple as pie! With the right preparation and some baking basics, you’ll whip up this homemade dessert that everyone will enjoy.
STEP ONE: Before you begin, gather all your ingredients and ensure your apples are peeled, cored, and sliced. Preheat your oven and lightly spray a baking dish with non-stick baker’s spray.
PRO TIP: Slice your apples consistently to ensure they cook evenly. A mandolin slicer can be handy here for quick, uniform slices.
STEP TWO: In a large bowl, combine the apple slices, light brown sugar, all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and vanilla extract. Gently fold all the ingredients together to evenly coat the apple slices with the sugars and spices.
PRO TIP: For a deeper flavor, let the apple mixture sit for about ten minutes after mixing. This allows the apples to release some juice and absorb the spices.
STEP THREE: Transfer the apple filling mixture to your prepared baking dish, spreading it into an even layer.
Don’t pack the apples too tightly to allow heat to circulate, and cook the apples uniformly.
STEP FOUR: In another large mixing bowl, combine the quick-cooking oats, all-purpose flour, light brown sugar, ground cinnamon, salt, and baking powder. Stir these dry ingredients together until well-mixed.
STEP FIVE: Then, pour the melted butter over the oat mixture and stir until all the dry ingredients are moistened and the mixture clumps together slightly.
STEP SIX: Evenly distribute the crumble topping over the apple filling, ensuring that all the apples are covered.
STEP SEVEN: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 40-45 minutes. The topping will turn golden brown, and the apple filling will bubble around the edges.
PRO TIP: Halfway through baking, rotate the dish to ensure even browning of the topping.
STEP EIGHT: Once baked, remove the apple crisp from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for about five minutes. This resting time helps the apple filling thicken up a bit, making it easier to serve.
Oatmeal Apple Crisp Recipe Substitutions and Additions
Granny Smith Apples: You can use other tart apple varieties like Pink Lady, Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Gala apples. You can also combine a variety of apples. Each will bring its unique sweetness, tart flavor, and texture.
For this recipe, you’ll need about seven or eight good-sized apples, which typically yield about three and a half pounds of apples.
Light Brown Sugar: Dark brown sugar can be used for a richer molasses flavor. Just be aware it might make the dish slightly darker.
Granulated Sugar: Coconut sugar or cane sugar can be used as a substitute. Both will provide a slightly different sweetness but work well in the recipe.
Ground Cinnamon: If you want a different spice profile, try using apple pie spice or pumpkin pie spice. These blends add a variety of spices that complement the apples.
Vanilla Extract: Almond extract can be substituted for a nutty twist. Use half the amount since almond extract is stronger.
Quick Cooking Oats: Old-fashioned oats can be used, but they will give the topping a chewier texture. Avoid instant oats, as they may become too mushy.
More Troubleshooting Tips For Making the Perfect Apple Crumble Recipe
- Chill the Butter: For a crispier topping, use cold butter instead of melted. Cut the butter into small cubes and work it into the dry ingredients using a pastry cutter or your fingers until it forms pea-sized crumbs.
- Prevent Browning: To keep the apples from browning while you prepare the rest of the ingredients, toss them with a little fresh lemon juice. This is helpful if you want to prepare the apples ahead of time, too.
- Check for Doneness: When checking for doneness, insert a fork into the apple filling. The apples should be tender but not mushy. The topping should be golden brown and crisp.
- Avoid Overmixing the Topping: When combining the topping ingredients, mix just until everything is moistened. Overmixing can result in a dense topping instead of a light and crumbly one.
- Add a Splash of Liquid: If your apples are particularly dry, add a tablespoon of apple juice or water to the filling mixture to help create a juicier filling.
- Use a Lined Baking Sheet: Place the baking dish on a lined baking sheet to catch any spills or drips, making cleanup easier.
- Let it Cool: Allow the apple crisp to cool for at least ten minutes after baking. This helps the filling set and makes serving easier.
- Check Your Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to make sure your oven is at the correct temperature, as oven variances can affect baking times and results.
How To Serve Apple and Oats Crumble
This apple crunch recipe is a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, looking for a comforting weeknight treat, or planning a festive holiday gathering, here are some great ideas to serve and enjoy this delicious dish.
Classic Dessert: Serve the warm apple crisp warm with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce. You can also add a dollop of whipped cream for extra richness.
Brunch Delight: Incorporate the apple crisp into a brunch menu by serving it with a side of Greek yogurt and a drizzle of honey or maple syrup.
Breakfast Option: Transform your apple crisp into a hearty breakfast by serving it over a bowl of oatmeal or alongside a serving of eggs and bacon.
Holiday Gathering: Present the apple crisp as part of a holiday dessert table. Pair it with other seasonal favorites like pumpkin pie, pecan pie, or a selection of holiday cookies.
Drink Pairings: Serve the apple crisp with a glass of chilled apple cider or a cup of whipped hot chocolate. The flavors complement each other beautifully, creating a comforting and satisfying end to any meal.
MORE APPLE DESSERT RECIPES
How To Store Apple Crisp
Proper storage is key to enjoying your apple crisp at its best, whether you’re making it ahead for a special occasion or saving leftovers for later.
Here are some tips on how to store your apple crisp to keep it fresh and delicious.
MAKE AHEAD: You can prepare the apple crisp ahead of time by assembling the apple filling and the crisp topping separately. Store the apple filling in an airtight container in the fridge and keep the topping in a separate container.
When you’re ready to bake, combine them and follow the baking instructions.
IN THE FRIDGE: Store leftover apple crisp in the fridge. Allow it to come to room temperature, then cover it with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to three days. The crisp topping may soften slightly, but the flavors will remain delicious.
IN THE FREEZER: You can freeze apple crisp either before or after baking. If freezing after baking, allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly with plastic wrap followed by a layer of aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to two months. When ready to use, thaw the apple crisp in the fridge overnight.
REHEATING: To reheat apple crisp, you can use the oven or the microwave.
For the oven, preheat to 350°F and bake for a few minutes until warmed through.
In the microwave, heat individual servings on high for one to two minutes, checking and stirring if necessary.
Why This Easy Apple Crisp Recipe is the Best
We think you’ll agree this is the best apple crisp recipe you’ll ever make. It’s not just about the delicious taste but also the simplicity and versatility that make it a favorite everywhere.
Easy to Make: With just a few straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both beginners and experienced bakers.
Comforting and Familiar: The combination of spiced apples and a buttery crisp topping brings a sense of nostalgia and warmth.
Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap in different types of apples or add your favorite spices to suit your taste.
Perfect for So Many Occasions: Whether it’s a family dinner, a holiday gathering, or a casual get-together, this apple crisp fits right in.
Apple Crisp Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can use any apples for apple crisp, but besides Granny Smith apples, some of our favorites are Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Pink Lady for a different flavor.
Yes, peeling the apples helps achieve the right texture for the filling.
Slice the apples to about ⅛ inch thick to ensure even cooking.
Try placing the apple crisp under the broiler for one minute, but watch closely to prevent burning.
No, bake it uncovered to allow the topping to become crisp.
The topping should be golden brown and the apple filling should be bubbling around the edges.
Yes, chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts can be added for extra crunch.
Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a classic touch.
This apple crisp recipe offers a perfect blend of spiced apples and a crunchy topping, making it an easy and satisfying dessert for any occasion. Enjoy the warm, comforting flavors in every bite!
More Apple Desserts You’ll Love
- Apple Chips
- Apple Dump Cake
- Apple Cheesecake Bars
- Air Fryer Apple Hand Pies
- Caramel Apple Dessert Cups
Apple Crisp
Ingredients
For the Apple Filling
- 10 cups Granny Smith apples (peeled, cored and sliced into ⅛ inch thick slices then cut the slices in half)
- ½ cup light brown sugar, tightly packed
- ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Crisp Topping
- 1 ⅓ cups quick cooking oats
- 1 ⅓ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup light brown sugar, tightly packed
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Lightly spray a 9×13 baking dish with non-stick baker’s spray. Set aside.
- To a very large mixing bowl, add the apple slices, light brown sugar, all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and vanilla extract. Gently fold all the ingredients together to evenly coat the apple slices with the sugars and spices.
- Transfer the apple filling mixture to the prepared 9×13 baking dish and spread into an even layer. Be careful not to pack the apple filling too tightly when adding to the baking dish.
- To make the crisp topping, add to a large mixing bowl the quick cooking oats, all-purpose flour, light brown sugar, ground cinnamon, salt and baking powder. Stir to combine.
- Add the melted butter to the bowl of oats and stir to combine until all the melted butter has been evenly incorporated and no dry pockets of flour remains.
- Top the apple filling with the crisp topping mixture. Be sure to evenly distribute the crisp mixture over the apples so that all the apple filling is evenly covered with the crisp mixture.
- Bake, uncovered, for 40-45 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the juices are bubbly from the apple filling.
- Allow the apple crisp to cool on the counter for 5 minutes before serving to allow the apple filling to set-up slightly and the juices to thicken.
Video
Notes
- Chill the Butter: For a crispier topping, use cold butter instead of melted. Cut the butter into small cubes and work it into the dry ingredients using a pastry cutter or your fingers until it forms pea-sized crumbs.
- Prevent Browning: To keep the apples from browning while you prepare the rest of the ingredients, toss them with a little lemon juice. This is helpful if you want to prepare the apples ahead of time, too.
- Check for Doneness: When checking for doneness, insert a fork into the apple filling. The apples should be tender but not mushy. The topping should be golden brown and crisp.
- Avoid Overmixing the Topping: When combining the topping ingredients, mix just until everything is moistened. Overmixing can result in a dense topping instead of a light and crumbly one.
- Add a Splash of Liquid: If your apples are particularly dry, add a tablespoon of apple juice or water to the filling mixture to help create a juicier filling.
- Use a Lined Baking Sheet: Place the baking dish on a lined baking sheet to catch any spills or drips, making cleanup easier.
- Let it Cool: Allow the apple crisp to cool for at least 10 minutes after baking. This helps the filling set and makes serving easier.
- Check Your Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to make sure your oven is at the correct temperature, as oven variances can affect baking times and results.
Nutrition
Even More Great Recipe Ideas You’ll Love
Apple Recipes
- Apple Chips
- Caramel Apple Dump Cake
- Apple & Blackberry Crumble
- Apple Donuts
- Applesauce Cake
- Apple Pie Filling
- Apple Pie Bites
- Spiked Apple Cider
- Crockpot Applesauce
- Hasselback Apples Recipe
- Upside Down Apple Cake
- Campfire Apple Crisp in Foil Packets
- Apple Dapple Cake
Dessert Recipes
- Blackberry Cobbler
- Blueberry Dump Cake
- Gingerbread Cookies
- Peach Dump Cake
- Blueberry Hand Pies
- Blueberry Cobbler
- Sugar Cooking Icing
- Cherry Chip Cake
- Mini Lunchbox Cake
- Boston Cream Fudge
- Lemon Raspberry Cookies
- Easy 15-Minute Maple Bars
- Chocolate Brownie Bundt Cake
- Homemade Marshmallow Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe
Favorite Fall Dessert Ideas with Pumpkin
- Fireball Pumpkin Pie
- Pumpkin Dump Cake
- Air Fryer Pumpkin Seeds
- Baked Pumpkin Donuts
- Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins
- Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Bites
- Copycat Starbucks Pumpkin Scone
Comments
Toni Thomason says
Perfect classic dessert that is a must try.
Celia says
My family Loved it!! Best apple crisp they have ever had 🙂 thank you!!
Ilse Dyck says
One of the best apple crisps I’ve ever had, thanks!
Johnna W says
Delicious!! Sweetness is just right. I will continue to make this again and again.
Lisa says
It was very yummy. Thanks. I did add a little salt to mine because I feel like it brings out the flavor more in everything. I was also lazy and just cut up the butter and placed it on top of the crumb topping and let it melt into the dessert. It worked out well.
Deanne says
If I prepped this the night before and kept it in the fridge would it still be good to bake the next evening??
Layne Kangas says
I have never tried prepping that far ahead, so I am not sure if it would get mushy at all or browned.
Tina says
Can I use Macintosh apples?
Layne Kangas says
They’re not my favorite for apple crisp, but you could use them! Enjoy!
Michelle says
Great recipe! Used Gala apples as that is all I had in hand. Mixed in about 1/2 tsp salt into topping. I’m currently making my second pan as my family demolished the one made two nights ago 😉
Sue says
Just baked this tastes fantastic 😁
Traci Askew says
This is Yummy!!
Jamie says
I made this about a month ago and my husband LOVED it. He honestly did not like apple crisp until I discovered this recipe! So, thank you for that!
I went to make it yesterday, and as I was in the middle of measuring it occurred to me that it seemed like this recipe was not the same one I made last month and then I noticed the post has been updated since I last made it. Is this a completely different ratio of measurements or is my memory just really bad? We both liked it, but felt like it tasted completely different, as there seemed to be more of the ingredients put into the filling than the topping. Also maybe more nutmeg? If this did change, is there any way to get the original?
Jessie says
Yes, I noticed this too! Tastes completely different then the first time I made it, about a month ago. I was so confused….
Carole says
Made this with a mix of apples…3 Granny Smiths, 2 Golden Delicious and 1 Fuji…because I usually like the variety of apple flavors. I have a sweet tooth, but this was definitely on the too-sweet side for me. Probably because I changed out half the Granny Smiths for sweeter apples. The next time I make this recipe (because there will be a next time!), I’m going to stick with all Granny Smith apples and cut the apple mixture sugar by 1/4 cup. The crumble topping is perfect in taste and quantity. The baking time is exactly right…apples were soft but not mushy. Thanks for sharing a really good recipe!
*Note to person who asked about prepping a day ahead: I often make and bake crisps, put them in the fridge overnight and then just warm on low oven heat before serving. If you’ve had a main dish baking in the oven, turn the oven off when you remove the casserole and pop the crisp into the still warm oven. By the time you’re finished eating your meal, the crisp will have warmed through and the topping will be crispy. Works well for me.
Joanna says
This apple crisp turned out AMAZING! Apple desserts are my favorite, so I’ve had lots in my time. This one ranked very high on my list! Everyone that tried it loved it. We topped it off with some vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce. Absolute heaven! Better than what you’d get at a restaurant.
Jana says
How much butter? One place says 4 tsp the next place says 4 Tbsp.
Layne Kangas says
Sorry about that typo! It’s four tablespoons. Enjoy!
Jana says
Thank you 😊
Kadie says
Hi! Can this be baked in a Dutch oven instead of glass dish? Would it change cooking times?
Layne Kangas says
Hi, Kadie – I haven’t tried that yet so I can’t speak to how it would bake!
Melissa says
What do you think about cooking it in the pan, refrigerating it and then taking it in a crock pot the next day to the office
Layne Kangas says
It might get a little soggy like that? I haven’t tried so I cannot say for sure! 🙂
Jessica says
Can I use lime juice instead of lemon?
Layne Kangas says
Yes, but limes are more acidic than lemons so you might not need to use as much. Enjoy 🙂
Maria says
2 things- step 1 says 8×8, while the last step says ,9×9. Also, when I made this, there was a lot of liquid. Just wondering why that would happen.
Layne Kangas says
Hi, Maria – thanks for catching the typo! You will get some liquid with this recipe from the apples baking. I hope you enjoyed!
Gloria says
We love this yummy recipe!!
Anneette says
Made this and it is the best Apple Crisp I have ever had, thank you.
Mandy says
This recipe is fantastic! I doubled my crumble and used a 9×13 dish soo soo good! Thanks for sharing 💛
Donna says
I made this recently and it was AWESOME! The only thing I did differently was use 2 lemons (all the juice). Apples were so moist and juicy and the topping was VERY crunchy even after being refrigerated from the day before we ate it. Definitely will make it again
Lexi says
Hi there! Made this for our Canadian Thanksgiving this Saturday, I froze it right away. What are your instructions for reheating? Should I cook it from frozen or thaw it first? What temp and time in the oven? Thank you!
Layne Kangas says
You should thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. I would reheat at 350 for about 15-20 minutes. Enjoy and happy Thanksgiving!
Lori says
Can this recipe be doubled and baked in a 9×13 pan?
Layne Kangas says
I haven’t tested that yet but I would assume so! Enjoy 🙂
Arlene Wong says
I just doubled this. It’s too much for 1 9×13” pan. You will need to split it up.
Darlene says
I just made it this morning, I added chopped praline pecans , delicious!
Tristen says
Have yet to make it, but will be soon for a friend get together. When combining the butter into the oat and flour mixture, can you use a pastry blender, or does a fork/your fingers work better?
I look forward to sharing this recipe with my guests!
Layne Kangas says
Any of those would work just fine – enjoy!
Stacy says
Recipe Rating 5 Stars!
My Rating 1 Star…ugh, I ruined it by not peeling the skins off of the apples, I was in a huge rush and will not do that again! Will for sure try this again, the right way! The flavors were amazing and very simple to make with common ingredients you probably already have at home. I toasted some pecans and added them to the crumble.
Melody says
Really delicious! I used Pink Lady apples and it turned out wonderful. Served it with Mayfield vanilla frozen yogurt. So good!
Rachel says
Can you use a diff flour? Trying to stay away from the all purpose flours
Layne Kangas says
Hi, Rachel – we haven’t tested it with different types of flours so I’m not sure how it would turn out!
Wendy says
This recipe is fantastic!
Alice Kelly says
Real easy to make and it’s delicious
Natalie says
Can I use quick oats?
Layne Kangas says
Hi, Natalie – yes, it will change the texture just a bit but will still be yummy! Enjoy!
Jeanne says
Fantastic! Simple to make and so flavorful.
Michele Ann says
Sounds delicious!
Carrie says
That recipe is so my time. We had the exact apple crisp in school way back. Will keep this recipe!
Sue says
This is the best and easiest apple crisp I have ever made and will use it all the time I need a quick dessert!! The first time I used 2 cans pie filling and that was still very good!
Charlene Coomer says
I’m going to use 1/2 Granny Smith and 1/2 Gala apples and double the recipe. Will it fit in an 11×14 pan alright? Also why does using quick oats for the topping change the texture?
Thank you.
Layne Kangas says
Hi, Charlene – we haven’t tried doubling so I don’t have input on the pan size working. Quick oats and old-fashioned oats cook differently, so the texture would be different. You could use quick oats in a pinch but we would recommend old-fashioned. Enjoy!
Lise says
This was most delicious and easy to make!
Linda Primmer says
Looks delicious. I love a good apple crisp. I am happy to feature your old fashioned apple crisp at Love Your Creativity.
Becky says
The absolute best apple crisp I have ever had!!
Becky says
Very yummy! Everyone in my gamily enjoyed this recipe. Thank you for including freezer instructions! Do you bake it before you put it in the freezer? Or, do you simply assemble the apple crisp and pop it in the freezer (and bake once you thaw it out)?
Layne Kangas says
Hi, Becky – we baked it and then froze leftovers! Enjoy!
Valerie Evans says
My granddaughter & I enjoyed making this delicious apple crisp!!
Gen says
I made this for Thanksgiving giving dessert. I made it the day before and warmed up each serving in the microwave. Spooned a little vanilla bean gelato on top. I will use less nutmeg than what it calls for next time. Apple choice is perfect!
Kathy says
The best dessert, especially in the fall… this is in regular rotation at our house!