Apple crisp is a classic dessert that is perfect for any occasion, from weeknight desserts to holiday gatherings. This recipe takes the traditional apple crisp and elevates it with a buttery oat topping that adds texture and flavor. The combination of tender, cinnamon-spiced apples and crunchy topping makes this dessert irresistible. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate comfort dessert experience.
Ingredients for Classic Apple Crisp:
For the Apple Filling:
- 6 cups apples, peeled, cored, and sliced (about 6-8 medium apples)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
For the Crisp Topping:
- 1 cup old-fashioned oats
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
How to Make Classic Apple Crisp:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish or a similar-sized baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
- Prepare the Apple Filling:
- In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and lemon juice. Toss the apples until they are evenly coated with the sugar and spice mixture.
- Make the Crisp Topping:
- In a separate bowl, combine the oats, flour, brown sugar, baking powder, and baking soda. Stir in the melted butter until the mixture is crumbly and well combined.
- Assemble the Apple Crisp:
- Spread the apple mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the crisp topping over the apples, covering them completely.
- Bake the Apple Crisp:
- Bake the apple crisp in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Serve Warm:
- Remove the apple crisp from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve the apple crisp warm, either on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
About the Main Ingredients:
Apples:
Apples are the star of this dessert, providing a sweet and tart flavor that is complemented by the spices and oat topping. Use a mix of sweet and tart apples for the best flavor and texture. Popular apple varieties for baking include Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, and Braeburn.
Oats:
Old-fashioned oats are used in the crisp topping to add a crunchy texture and nutty flavor. Oats are a great source of fiber and can help make this dessert a bit more nutritious.
Brown Sugar:
Brown sugar adds a rich, caramel-like sweetness to the crisp topping. It also helps the topping to become crispy and golden brown as it bakes.
Butter:
Unsalted butter is used in both the apple filling and the crisp topping. It adds richness and flavor to the dessert. Be sure to use melted butter for the topping to ensure that it mixes well with the other ingredients.
Spices:
Cinnamon and nutmeg are classic spices used to flavor the apple filling. They add warmth and depth to the dessert, enhancing the natural sweetness of the apples.
Lemon Juice:
Lemon juice adds a touch of acidity to the apple filling, which helps to balance the sweetness of the apples and the crisp topping. It also helps to prevent the apples from browning too quickly.
Classic apple crisp is a comforting and delicious dessert that is sure to be a hit with family and friends. With its tender, cinnamon-spiced apples and crunchy oat topping, it’s the perfect dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight treat or a holiday celebration, this apple crisp is sure to impress. Enjoy it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a truly decadent dessert experience.
