Apple crisp is one of the most classic and reliable desserts you can make at home. With tender baked apples coated in cinnamon, nutmeg, and sugar, paired with a golden oat topping that bakes into a crisp layer, it offers the perfect balance of sweet and spiced flavors. Unlike pies, it doesn’t require a crust, which makes preparation much easier without losing any of the appeal of a warm, baked apple dessert.
This recipe uses simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen, and it comes together in just about an hour. The result is a comforting dish that works just as well for a casual family treat as it does for holiday gatherings. Apple crisp is also incredibly versatile—served warm with ice cream or enjoyed on its own, it’s always a hit.
Why You’ll Love This
- Simple to make: No special equipment or advanced baking skills are needed. It’s an easy dessert that anyone can prepare.
- Balanced flavors: The tartness of apples combines with the sweetness of brown sugar and the warmth of cinnamon for a well-rounded taste.
- Perfect texture: The tender apple filling contrasts with the crunchy oat topping for a satisfying bite.
- Customizable: You can mix different apple varieties or even add pears or berries for variety. Chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts can also be added to the topping.
- Make-ahead friendly: You can prepare the filling and topping ahead of time, then assemble and bake when ready to serve.
- Diet-friendly adjustments: Easy to adapt into gluten-free or dairy-free versions by swapping a few ingredients.
Ingredients Needed
To prepare a delicious homemade apple crisp, you only need basic ingredients that work together perfectly for the filling and topping. Here’s everything required:
For the Apple Filling:
- 6–7 medium apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix for best flavor) – peeled, cored, and sliced.
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice – helps prevent browning and balances sweetness.
- ½ cup granulated sugar – sweetens the apple mixture.
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon – adds warmth and spice.
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg – enhances flavor depth.
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch or all-purpose flour – thickens the filling as it bakes.
For the Crisp Topping:
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats – gives the topping a chewy and crunchy texture.
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour – helps bind the topping.
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed – provides a rich, caramel-like sweetness.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted – keeps the topping crisp and flavorful.
- ¼ teaspoon salt – balances the sweetness.
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon – ties the flavors together.
Optional add-ins:
- ½ cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans) for extra crunch.
- ¼ cup shredded coconut for added flavor and texture.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps carefully for the best results when making your apple crisp:
- Preheat the oven:
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready once the crisp is assembled. - Prepare the apples:
Peel, core, and slice your apples into even pieces, about ¼-inch thick. Place them in a large mixing bowl. - Coat the apples:
Add lemon juice, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cornstarch (or flour) to the bowl. Mix until the apples are evenly coated. This ensures the filling bakes into a soft, slightly thickened texture. - Transfer to baking dish:
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with butter or cooking spray. Spread the apple mixture evenly across the bottom of the dish. - Make the crisp topping:
In a separate bowl, combine oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Stir in melted butter until the mixture forms coarse crumbs. If using nuts or coconut, fold them in at this stage. - Add the topping:
Sprinkle the topping evenly over the apple filling, covering as much surface as possible. This helps the crisp bake into a golden, crunchy layer. - Bake the apple crisp:
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbling around the edges. - Cool slightly before serving:
Allow the apple crisp to rest for about 10 minutes after removing it from the oven. This helps the filling set and makes serving easier. - Serve warm:
Enjoy your apple crisp as it is, or pair it with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra treat.
Tips for Best Results
- Apple choice matters: Use a mix of tart and sweet apples for balanced flavor. Granny Smith and Honeycrisp work well together.
- Keep butter cold: Cold butter is key for a crumbly, crisp topping.
- Make ahead: You can prepare the apple filling and topping separately, refrigerate, and bake just before serving.
- Double the recipe: For larger gatherings, bake in a 9×13-inch dish and increase baking time slightly.
Easy to Make Warm Apple Crisp Recipe
Description
This classic apple crisp recipe features tender, spiced apples topped with a buttery oat crumble that bakes to golden perfection. Perfect for fall gatherings, family desserts, or anytime you crave a warm and comforting treat. Serve it on its own or with vanilla ice cream.
Ingredients
For the Apple Filling:
For the Crisp Topping:
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Peel, core, and slice apples into ¼-inch thick pieces. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
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Add lemon juice, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cornstarch. Mix until apples are evenly coated.
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Transfer apple mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
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In a separate bowl, combine oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Stir in melted butter until mixture forms coarse crumbs. Add nuts or coconut if using.
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Sprinkle topping evenly over the apples.
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Bake for 40–45 minutes, until topping is golden brown and filling is bubbling.
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Let cool for 10 minutes before serving.
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Serve warm, plain or with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
