Introduction

This classic apple crisp recipe combines tender, cinnamon-coated apples with a buttery, crunchy oat topping. Perfect for cozy evenings, it’s easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a comforting dessert.

A close-up view of a white bowl filled with a warm apple crumble dessert. The bottom layer is made of soft, tender apple slices coated in a shiny, golden brown syrup that makes them look juicy and sweet. On top of the apples is a thick layer of crumbly topping, golden and slightly crispy with small oats and brown sugar pieces giving it a textured, uneven surface. The syrup from the apples is slightly soaked into the crumble, making parts of it glisten under the light. The background shows a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

5 cups fresh apples (sliced)
1/2 cup granulated white sugar
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (for apples)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/3 cup old fashioned oats
2/3 cup packed brown sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (for topping)
1/4 cup (1/2 stick) butter, melted

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a deep dish pie plate or a large baking dish with butter or cooking spray and set aside.
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples with granulated sugar, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Mix well so the apples are evenly coated, then pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
Step 3: In a separate medium bowl, mix together the flour, oats, brown sugar, salt, and the remaining 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon. Pour in the melted butter and stir until the mixture is crumbly and well coated.
Step 4: Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the apples in the baking dish.
Step 5: Bake in the preheated oven for 45 to 60 minutes, or until the fruit is soft and the topping is golden brown.
Step 6: Allow the apple crisp to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy it warm, topped with vanilla ice cream if desired.

Tips & Variations

For a deeper flavor, use a mix of tart and sweet apples like Granny Smith and Fuji.
Replace some oats with chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts for extra crunch.
Adding a pinch of nutmeg to the apple mixture enhances warmth and spice.
Use maple syrup instead of granulated sugar for a richer sweetness.

Storage

Store any leftover apple crisp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through. The topping may lose some crunch after refrigeration but will still taste delicious.

How to Serve

The dish is shown in a white oval baking dish filled with a warm dessert featuring two main layers. The bottom layer consists of soft, cooked apple slices covered in a thick, golden-brown syrupy sauce that looks sticky and sweet. On top is a chunky crumbly oat topping with small nut pieces, which appears golden and toasted, giving a rough texture. Some of the sauce seeps through the topping, blending the layers. A silver spoon is placed inside the dish on the right side, partially buried in the dessert. The white marbled surface beneath the dish enhances the warm tones of the dessert. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen apples instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen apples will work. Be sure to thaw and drain excess liquid before using to avoid a soggy crisp.

Can I make the apple crisp ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the crisp and refrigerate it uncovered for a few hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.

The Best Apple Crisp Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 144 reviews

This classic apple crisp recipe features tender, cinnamon-spiced baked apples topped with a buttery oat crumble. Perfectly golden and warm, it makes a comforting dessert that pairs beautifully with vanilla ice cream.

Author: Bella
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

Apple Filling

5 cups fresh apples, sliced
1/2 cup granulated white sugar
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Topping

1/2 cup all purpose flour
1/3 cup old fashioned oats
2/3 cup packed brown sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 cup (1/2 stick) butter, melted

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease a deep dish pie plate or a large baking dish using butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Prepare Apple Filling: In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples with granulated sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Toss well to coat all the apple slices evenly. Then, transfer this mixture into the prepared baking dish.
Make the Crumble Topping: In a medium bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, old fashioned oats, packed brown sugar, salt, and additional cinnamon. Pour the melted butter over this dry mixture and stir until everything is well coated and crumbly.
Assemble and Bake: Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the apple filling in the baking dish. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 60 minutes, or until the apples are soft and the topping is golden brown.
Cool and Serve: Once baked, allow the apple crisp to cool slightly before serving. Serve warm, ideally topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent finish. Enjoy!