Easy Apple Crisp Recipe

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If you’re craving a comforting dessert that feels like a warm hug in every bite, this Easy Apple Crisp Recipe is exactly what you need. With tender, cinnamon-kissed apples baked beneath a perfectly crumbly, buttery topping, it’s an absolute crowd-pleaser that comes together quickly and with simple ingredients. The balance of tart and sweet apples paired with that golden oat crumble makes it a timeless treat you’ll turn to again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the list right is key to that perfect apple crisp texture and flavor. Each ingredient plays a starring role, whether adding sweetness, warmth, or that irresistible crisp topping. These staples are likely already in your pantry, which makes this recipe even more accessible and fun to whip up.

• 3 pounds apples: Using half Granny Smith and half Pink Lady brings a beautiful balance of tart and sweet flavors.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Adds subtle sweetness to the apple filling without overpowering the fresh fruit taste.
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice: Enhances brightness and prevents the apples from browning.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Thickens the fruit juices so your crisp isn’t watery but perfectly saucy.
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (divided): Sprinkles of warm spice that infuse both the filling and topping.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter: Melts into the oat topping creating that rich, crumbly texture (swap with melted coconut oil for a vegan twist!).
• 1 cup rolled oats: Brings a hearty, rustic crunch that contrasts perfectly with soft apples.
• 1 cup all-purpose flour: Binds the topping ingredients; gluten-free or almond flour can be used to suit dietary needs.
• 1/3 cup brown sugar (packed): Adds caramel notes that deepen the topping’s sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon: Warming spice to elevate the crumble flavor even more.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the other flavors.

How to Make Easy Apple Crisp Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly spray a 13 x 9-inch baking dish with cooking spray to ensure your crisp doesn’t stick. This little prep sets the stage for effortless baking and easy cleanup.

Step 2: Peel and Chop Your Apples

Peeling the apples with a vegetable peeler gives a smoother texture to the filling. Standing each apple upright, slice around the core and then chop the segments into 1-inch chunks. This size allows the apples to soften nicely while still holding a bit of bite.

Step 3: Toss Apples With Sugar, Lemon, Cornstarch, and Cinnamon

In a large bowl, stir together your chopped apples, granulated sugar, fresh lemon juice, cornstarch, and 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon. The lemon juice brightens the flavor while cornstarch thickens the natural fruit juices during baking to keep everything luscious and saucy without being soggy.

Step 4: Layer the Filling

Spread the apple mixture evenly in your prepared baking dish. Creating a nice layer ensures every forkful will have that perfect blend of tender, warmly spiced fruit.

Step 5: Make the Crumble Topping

Microwave the unsalted butter until melted, about 40 to 60 seconds. In a separate bowl, combine rolled oats, all-purpose flour, brown sugar, remaining 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and salt. Pour the melted butter over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is well mixed, creating a crumbly and flavorful topping.

Step 6: Assemble and Bake

Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the apple layer. Bake at 350 degrees for 50 to 60 minutes until the topping is golden brown and the apples are bubbling and tender. If the crisp seems to brown too fast, loosely cover it with foil. Let it cool for at least 15 minutes on a wire rack to let the juices thicken and flavors meld before serving.

How to Serve Easy Apple Crisp Recipe

Garnishes

A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of thick caramel sauce turns this Easy Apple Crisp Recipe into an indulgent delight. Fresh whipped cream or a sprinkle of chopped toasted nuts also makes every bite feel like a special occasion.

Side Dishes

Pair it with a warm cup of spiced chai or freshly brewed coffee to complement the cinnamon and apple flavors. For a brunch twist, serve alongside crispy bacon or creamy yogurt to balance the sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve individual portions in ramekins for a charming touch or fill hollowed-out apples with the crisp mixture for eye-catching edible bowls. You could even layer it parfait-style with Greek yogurt and granola for a breakfast-in-dessert experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cover your apple crisp tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen and even improve overnight, making it perfect to enjoy the next day or two.

Freezing

This Easy Apple Crisp Recipe freezes beautifully. After baking, cool completely, cover tightly with foil or freezer-safe wrap, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Warm leftovers in a preheated 350-degree oven for 15 to 20 minutes until bubbling hot. Avoid microwaving when possible to keep the topping crisp and delicious.

FAQs

Can I use other fruits besides apples?

Absolutely! Pears, peaches, or berries all work wonderfully in this recipe. Just adjust the sugar slightly based on the sweetness of the fruit you choose.

Is there a vegan version of this Easy Apple Crisp Recipe?

Yes! Simply substitute the butter with melted coconut oil or a plant-based margarine to keep it vegan-friendly without sacrificing richness.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Definitely. Swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1-to-1 baking flour or almond flour, and ensure your oats are certified gluten-free.

How do I pick the best apples for this crisp?

A mix of tart and sweet apples creates the perfect balance. Granny Smith provides tartness and firmness, while Pink Lady adds sweetness and a hint of floral notes.

Why do we add cornstarch to the filling?

Cornstarch thickens the natural juices released by the apples as they bake, preventing the dessert from becoming watery and keeping every bite perfectly saucy.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Apple Crisp Recipe is a delightful, straightforward way to celebrate seasonal apples or simply satisfy your craving for warm, spiced dessert. It’s a recipe that welcomes everyone to the table with its cozy flavors and inviting aroma, so grab your spatula and let this crisp become your new favorite comfort food.

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Easy Apple Crisp Recipe

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This Easy Apple Crisp is a comforting and simple dessert made with tender baked apples and a crunchy oat and brown sugar topping. Perfect for cozy fall evenings, it combines the tartness of Granny Smith and Pink Lady apples with warm cinnamon spices and a buttery crumble topping. This classic American dessert is easy to prepare and can be made vegan or gluten-free with simple substitutions.

• Author: Paula
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Apple Mixture

• 3 pounds apples (half Granny Smith, half Pink Lady)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon (divided)

Crumble Topping

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (substitute with melted coconut oil for vegan option)
• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1 cup all-purpose flour (substitute with gluten free 1-to-1 flour or almond flour to make gluten free)
• 1/3 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray a 13 x 9-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Peel the Apples: Using a vegetable peeler, peel all the apples completely to remove the skin for a smooth texture in your crisp.
3. Core and Chop Apples: Stand each apple on a cutting board, cut around the core on all sides, then place the cut pieces apple-side down and chop into roughly 1-inch chunks.
4. Mix Apples with Sugar and Spices: In a large bowl, combine the chopped apples, granulated sugar, fresh lemon juice, cornstarch, and 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon. Stir well until the mixture is evenly coated and the ingredients are fully blended.
5. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the apple mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish and spread it out to form a uniform layer.
6. Prepare the Crumble Topping: Melt the unsalted butter in a medium-sized bowl using the microwave for 40 to 60 seconds until fully melted. Add the rolled oats, all-purpose flour, packed brown sugar, remaining 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and salt. Stir thoroughly until the topping mixture is well combined and crumbly.
7. Assemble the Crisp: Evenly sprinkle the crumble topping over the apple layer in the baking dish, covering the apples completely.
8. Bake the Crisp: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes until the topping is golden brown and bubbly. If the topping begins to brown too quickly, loosely cover the crisp with foil to prevent burning.
9. Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the apple crisp cool on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes. Serve warm and enjoy this delicious, comforting dessert.

Notes

• You can substitute the unsalted butter with melted coconut oil to make the recipe vegan.
• For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free 1-to-1 flour or almond flour instead of all-purpose flour.
• Using a mix of tart and sweet apples provides a balanced flavor and texture.
• Cover loosely with foil during baking if the topping browns too fast to avoid burning.
• Serve with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra special treat.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated before serving.