The Best Apple Crisp

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this apple crisp because it’s simple yet always a hit. The spiced apple filling is sweet and slightly tart, while the crisp topping adds the perfect crunch. I also enjoy that it’s an easy recipe to throw together without needing pie crust. It’s rustic, flavorful, and feels like home in a dish.

Ingredients

(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)

8 large apples
1 & 1/2 cups brown sugar
1 cup flour
1 cup old fashioned oats
2 teaspoons cinnamon
1 & 1/2 teaspoons nutmeg
3/4 cup salted butter, softened
Vanilla ice cream, pretty much not optional 🙂
homemade caramel sauce, click for recipe

Directions

1. I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. I peel, core, and slice the apples, then spread them evenly in the baking dish.
3. In a medium bowl, I mix together the brown sugar, flour, oats, cinnamon, nutmeg, and softened butter until crumbly.
4. I sprinkle the topping mixture evenly over the apples.
5. I bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes, until the topping is golden brown and the apples are tender.
6. I serve warm with vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 8 servings. It usually takes me 20 minutes to prepare and 45 minutes to bake.

Variations

Sometimes I add chopped pecans or walnuts to the topping for extra crunch. I also like mixing different apple varieties for more depth of flavor. If I want a lighter version, I cut back slightly on the sugar. For a festive twist, I add a splash of apple cider to the apples before baking.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftover apple crisp covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, I warm it in the oven at 325°F until hot, which keeps the topping crisp. If I’m short on time, I reheat individual portions in the microwave, though the topping softens a little. I don’t recommend freezing it since the texture can change.

FAQs

What apples are best for apple crisp?

I like using Granny Smith for tartness, but mixing in Honeycrisp or Fuji gives extra sweetness.

Can I make apple crisp ahead of time?

Yes, I assemble it up to a day in advance, cover it, and refrigerate until baking.

How do I keep the topping crisp?

I reheat in the oven instead of the microwave to maintain the crunch.

Can I make this without oats?

Yes, I substitute extra flour for the oats, though the texture will be different.

Can I use unsalted butter?

Yes, but I usually add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.

How do I know when it’s done?

The apples should be tender and bubbling, and the topping golden brown.

Can I reduce the sugar?

Yes, I sometimes use just 1 cup of brown sugar for a less sweet version.

What’s the best way to serve apple crisp?

I always serve it warm with vanilla ice cream and caramel sauce.

Can I freeze apple crisp?

I don’t recommend freezing it baked, but I sometimes freeze the apple filling separately to use later.

Is this the same as apple crumble?

It’s very similar, but apple crumble usually doesn’t include oats in the topping.

Conclusion

I love making this apple crisp because it’s simple, cozy, and bursting with fall flavors. The spiced apples and buttery oat topping are delicious on their own, but paired with ice cream and caramel sauce, it becomes an unforgettable dessert. It’s one of those recipes I return to every year, and it never disappoints.

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