Classic Apple Crisp Recipe
When autumn arrives, nothing beats the comforting aroma of warm apples and cinnamon baking in the oven. This Classic Apple Crisp Recipe delivers everything you love about fall desserts:
✔ Juicy, tender apples with the perfect balance of sweet and tart
✔ Buttery oat crumble topping that bakes up golden and crisp
✔ Warm cinnamon spice flavor in every bite
✔ Easy to make with simple ingredients
✔ Versatile dessert – equally perfect for weeknights or holiday gatherings
Unlike fussy apple pies that require perfect crusts, this easy apple crisp is virtually foolproof. The oat-based topping comes together in minutes, and the apple filling requires no precooking – just slice, mix, and bake!
Why this recipe stands out:
• Uses a mix of apple varieties for balanced flavor and texture
• Cold butter in the topping ensures maximum crispiness
• No special equipment needed – just basic kitchen tools
• Customizable with your favorite add-ins like nuts or raisins
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dessert, a Thanksgiving showstopper, or a cozy weekend treat, this apple crisp delivers. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate comfort food experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Keep reading for the simple step-by-step instructions, expert tips for the perfect crisp texture, and delicious serving suggestions!
🍏 Why You’ll Love This Apple Crisp
This homemade apple crisp offers several advantages over store-bought versions or complicated pies:
✔ Better texture – Tender apples with a crispy, buttery topping
✔ Customizable sweetness – Adjust sugar to your taste
✔ Make-ahead friendly – Assemble ahead and bake when needed
✔ Crowd-pleasing – Loved by kids and adults alike
✔ Seasonal flexibility – Great with fresh or stored apples
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen apples?
Yes, but thaw and drain excess liquid first
How do I make this gluten-free?
Use GF flour blend and certified GF oats
Can I reduce the sugar?
Yes, reduce by 1/4 cup for tart apples
This Classic Apple Crisp Recipe is the ultimate easy fall dessert that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. The juicy cinnamon apples and crisp oat topping create the perfect textural contrast, while the warm spices fill your kitchen with irresistible autumn aroma.
Classic Apple Crisp Recipe
Ingredients
For the Apple Filling:
- 6 medium apples mix of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp recommended
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
For the Crisp Topping:
- 3/4 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup 1 stick cold unsalted butter, cubed
Instructions
Preparing the Apples
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C)
- Peel, core, and slice apples into 1/4-inch thick pieces
- In a large bowl, toss apples with lemon juice, sugar, and spices
Making the Topping
- In a separate bowl, whisk together dry ingredients
- Cut in cold butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs
Assembling & Baking
- Transfer apples to baking dish
- Sprinkle topping evenly over apples
- Bake 40-45 minutes until golden and bubbly
Notes
Serving Suggestions
- À la mode: With vanilla ice cream
- Decadent: Drizzled with caramel sauce
- Crunchy: Topped with chopped pecans or walnuts
- Breakfast version: Served with yogurt
Expert Tips for Perfect Results
✅ Apple selection: Use 2-3 varieties for complex flavor✅ Texture tip: Keep butter cold for crispier topping
✅ Make ahead: Assemble up to 1 day in advance
✅ Storage: Keeps well refrigerated for 5 days