This Easy Apple Crisp is a warm and comforting dessert featuring tender apple chunks coated in cinnamon and brown sugar, topped with a crunchy oatmeal crumble. Perfect for fall, it’s simple to make and includes gluten-free and vegan options. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for the ultimate cozy treat.

Easy Apple Crisp

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple Ingredients – Uses pantry staples and fresh apples.
Customizable – Easily make it gluten-free or vegan.
Perfect for Fall – A great way to enjoy apple season.
Great for Gatherings – Serves a crowd and is always a hit.
Make-Ahead Friendly – Can be prepped in advance for easy baking.

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

3 pounds apples (Granny Smith and Pink Lady recommended)
½ cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon, divided
½ cup unsalted butter (or melted coconut oil for a vegan option)
1 cup rolled oats
1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free 1:1 flour/almond flour)
⅓ cup packed brown sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon
¼ teaspoon salt

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 13x9-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
Prepare the apples by peeling, coring, and chopping them into 1-inch chunks.
Mix the apple filling by combining apples, granulated sugar, lemon juice, cornstarch, and 2 teaspoons of cinnamon in a large bowl. Stir until well-coated.
Assemble the crisp by spreading the apple mixture evenly into the baking dish.
Make the crumble topping by melting the butter (or coconut oil) and mixing it with oats, flour, brown sugar, remaining cinnamon, and salt until combined.
Top the apples with the oat crumble mixture, distributing it evenly.
Bake for 50-60 minutes until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. If browning too quickly, cover loosely with foil.
Cool and serve after letting the crisp rest for at least 15 minutes. Serve warm and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 8
Calories per serving: 240 kcal

Variations

Nutty Crunch: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the crumble topping.
Extra Spice: Enhance the flavor with nutmeg or allspice.
Less Sugar: Reduce the sugar for a more tart apple flavor.
Caramel Twist: Drizzle caramel sauce over the crisp before serving.
Boozy Apple Crisp: Add a splash of bourbon or rum to the apple mixture.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Warm in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes or microwave individual portions for 30-40 seconds.

FAQs

How do I keep my apple crisp from getting soggy?

Make sure to use fresh apples and avoid overmixing the topping. Baking uncovered helps keep the crumble crisp.

What are the best apples for apple crisp?

Granny Smith and Pink Lady apples are recommended for their balance of tartness and sweetness.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the crisp and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

Yes, but the texture will be slightly softer. Rolled oats provide a better crunch.

How do I make this gluten-free?

Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1:1 flour or almond flour.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Use melted coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free version.

What can I serve with apple crisp?

It pairs well with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or caramel sauce.

Why is my apple crisp watery?

This can happen if the apples release too much juice. Cornstarch helps thicken the filling, so don’t skip it.

Can I use other fruits?

Yes! Pears, peaches, or mixed berries make great additions or substitutions.

How do I store leftover apple crisp?

Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze for longer storage.

Conclusion

This Easy Apple Crisp is a must-try fall dessert, combining warm spiced apples with a crunchy oatmeal crumble. With its simple ingredients, customizable options, and irresistible flavor, it’s perfect for any occasion. Serve it warm, and enjoy a cozy bite of autumn!