Rustic Apple Crisp Recipe with Warm Spices (Print Version)
Whip up this Easy Apple Crisp Recipe, a comforting dessert with tender apples and a crunchy oat topping. Perfect for any evening!
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 20 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 50 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 70 minutes
Servings: 8 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
Dietary: Vegetarian
# Ingredients:
→ Apple Filling
01 -
6 medium apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix), peeled, cored, and sliced
02 -
1/2 cup granulated sugar (adjust to apple sweetness)
03 -
1 tbsp lemon juice
04 -
1 tsp ground cinnamon
05 -
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
→ Crunchy Topping
06 -
1 cup all-purpose flour
07 -
1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
08 -
1/2 cup rolled oats (old-fashioned, not instant)
09 -
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
10 -
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
11 -
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
→ Optional Serving
12 -
Vanilla bean ice cream
13 -
Fresh whipped cream
14 -
Caramel sauce
# Instructions:
01 -
First things first, get those apples peeled, cored, and sliced. I usually go for about 1/4-inch slices, not too thin, not too thick. Throw them into a big bowl. This is where I always make sure I have enough apples, because honestly, I always underestimate how many I need! Add your granulated sugar, lemon juice, a good sprinkle of cinnamon, and a pinch of nutmeg. Give it all a good toss until the apples are glistening and coated. Oh, and make sure your baking dish is ready—I usually grab a 9x13 inch one, but an 8x8 works for a smaller crowd.
02 -
Now for the best part, the crumbly topping! In another bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, brown sugar, rolled oats, and the rest of your cinnamon and nutmeg. Give it a quick whisk to mix everything up. Then, cut in your cold, cubed unsalted butter. You can use a pastry blender, two knives, or honestly, just your fingertips! I often just use my hands; it’s a bit messy but works wonders, creating that beautiful crumbly texture. Don’t overmix; we want distinct crumbs, not a paste.
03 -
Pour those seasoned apples into your prepared baking dish. Spread them out evenly. They should look juicy and inviting! Then, sprinkle that glorious crisp topping all over the apples. Be generous! This is where the magic happens, forming that golden, crunchy layer. I sometimes sneak a little taste of the raw topping here, oops, it's just so good!
04 -
Pop your dish into a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C). Bake for about 40-50 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the topping is golden brown and bubbling, and the apples underneath are tender. The smell, oh my goodness, the smell! It’s like a warm hug for your entire house. I always set a timer, but then find myself peeking through the oven door every five minutes, honestly.
05 -
Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for at least 10-15 minutes. This gives the apple filling a chance to set up a bit, and prevents you from burning your tongue (a mistake I've made more times than I care to admit!). The kitchen will smell incredible, and the temptation to dig in immediately will be real, but resist, just for a little while!
06 -
Scoop out generous portions of your warm, bubbling apple crisp. It should have that perfect balance of tender, spiced apples and a crunchy, buttery oat topping. I love serving it with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of fresh whipped cream. It's truly a simple dessert that brings so much joy, a real winner in my book!
# Notes:
01 -
Always use a mix of tart and sweet apples for the best flavor balance.
02 -
To avoid a soggy bottom, don't overcrowd your baking dish and ensure apples are not overly wet.
03 -
For an extra crunchy topping, try toasting the oats briefly before mixing them in.
04 -
Serve warm with vanilla ice cream; the contrast is seriously a game-changer.
# Equipment Needed:
01 -
9x13 inch baking dish
02 -
large mixing bowls
03 -
pastry blender (optional)
04 -
peeler
05 -
knife
# Nutrition (Per Serving):
Calories: 350 kcal
Total Fat: 18g
Total Carbohydrate: 45g
Protein: 3g