The Best Apple Crisp
There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm dessert filled with sweet, juicy apples and a crunchy topping. Apple crisp, with its perfect balance of flavors and textures, is a beloved classic that brings back fond memories of family gatherings and cozy evenings. This delightful dish is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it a fantastic choice for both novice and experienced bakers alike.
Why Make This Recipe
This apple crisp recipe stands out due to its simplicity and the fresh ingredients that highlight the natural flavor of the apples. The combination of granulated and brown sugars adds depth, while the oats provide a hearty crunch. Whether you’re looking for an easy weekday dessert or something special for a gathering, this apple crisp is sure to impress. Plus, it can be whipped up in under an hour, making it a convenient and satisfying option for any occasion.
How to Make The Best Apple Crisp
Creating the perfect apple crisp is simpler than you might think. With just a few basic steps, you can have a delicious dessert ready to serve. Follow this guide to make the best apple crisp you’ve ever tasted!
Ingredients:
- 5 cups fresh apples (sliced)
- 1/2 cup granulated white sugar
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup old-fashioned oats
- 2/3 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) butter (melted)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease a deep dish pie plate or large baking dish with butter or cooking spray and set it aside.
- In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples with the granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Mix until all of the apples are evenly coated. Pour this mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- In a separate medium-sized bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, old-fashioned oats, brown sugar, salt, and additional cinnamon. Pour in the melted butter and stir until the mixture is well combined and crumbly.
- Sprinkle the crumb mixture evenly over the top of the coated apples in the baking dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-60 minutes until the fruit is soft and the topping is a beautiful golden brown. Allow the apple crisp to cool slightly before serving. It’s best enjoyed warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top!
How to Serve The Best Apple Crisp
When serving apple crisp, the warm, gooey filling paired with the crunchy topping creates a delightful experience. For a classic touch, serve each portion with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. You can also pair it with a drizzle of caramel sauce or even a sprinkle of nuts for added texture and flavor.
How to Store
To store leftover apple crisp, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Alternatively, if you’d like to keep it longer, you can freeze it before baking. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and it will last in the freezer for about 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw and bake as directed.
Tips to Make
- Select a mix of tart and sweet apples for a more complex flavor profile. Varieties like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp work beautifully together.
- For an extra crunch, try adding chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts to the topping mixture.
- Feel free to adjust the sweetness according to your taste – add more or less sugar based on the tartness of your apples.
Variation
Explore different flavor profiles by experimenting with spices! Adding a pinch of nutmeg or ginger can elevate the taste. You can also consider incorporating different fruits, such as pears or berries, along with the apples. For a gluten-free option, swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen apples to make apple crisp?
Yes, you can use frozen apples. Just make sure to thaw them and drain any excess liquid before adding them to the dish to prevent a soggy crisp.
2. How do I know when my apple crisp is done baking?
The apple filling should be soft, and the topping should be golden brown. A fork should easily pierce through the apples when it is done.
3. Can I make apple crisp ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and topping separately and store them in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake. This way, you can have a freshly baked dessert with minimal effort.
Classic Apple Crisp
Ingredients
For the apple filling
- 5 cups fresh apples (sliced) Use a mix of tart and sweet apples for complex flavor.
- 1/2 cup granulated white sugar
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the topping
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour Can be substituted with gluten-free flour blend.
- 1/3 cup old-fashioned oats
- 2/3 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon For additional flavor in the topping.
- 1/4 cup butter (melted) (1/2 stick)
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease a deep dish pie plate or large baking dish with butter or cooking spray and set it aside.
- In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples with the granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Mix until all of the apples are evenly coated. Pour this mixture into the prepared baking dish.
Making the Topping
- In a separate medium-sized bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, old-fashioned oats, brown sugar, salt, and additional cinnamon.
- Pour in the melted butter and stir until the mixture is well combined and crumbly.
- Sprinkle the crumb mixture evenly over the top of the coated apples in the baking dish.
Baking
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-60 minutes until the fruit is soft and the topping is a beautiful golden brown.
- Allow the apple crisp to cool slightly before serving. It’s best enjoyed warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top.
