Apple crisp is a classic dessert that has stood the test of time for good reason. With its perfect balance of tender spiced apples and a crispy, buttery oat topping, it’s a treat that evokes feelings of warmth and nostalgia. This easy-to-make apple crisp will fill your home with delicious aromas and provide the perfect comfort dessert. Whether it’s for a cozy evening or a special gathering, this dessert is sure to please everyone.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Old Fashioned Easy Apple Crisp is the kind of dessert that never goes out of style. It's simple to prepare, but the end result is always impressive. The tender apples, lightly spiced with cinnamon and balanced by the tang of lemon juice, create a perfect filling. The crisp topping made from oats, brown sugar, and butter forms a crunchy, sweet contrast to the apples, making each bite irresistible. Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve on its own or topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and salted caramel. Whether you enjoy it after a hearty meal or as an afternoon treat, this apple crisp is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

For the Spiced Apples:

6 golden delicious apples, peeled and chopped (or sliced)
2 tablespoon granulated sugar
¾ teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 ½ teaspoon lemon juice

For the Crisp Topping:

1 cup light brown sugar
¾ cup old-fashioned oats
¾ cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Pinch of kosher salt
½ cup cold unsalted butter, diced into small cubes

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

Directions

Prepare the Oven and Dish: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8x8-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray and set it aside.
Make the Spiced Apples: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped apples, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Stir well to coat the apples evenly. Once mixed, transfer the apples to the prepared baking dish.
Prepare the Topping: In a separate mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, oats, flour, cinnamon, and salt. Add the cold diced butter to the mixture and use a pastry cutter, two forks, or your hands to work the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture forms small, pea-sized crumbs.
Assemble and Bake: Evenly spread the topping over the spiced apples, gently pressing it down. Bake for 40–50 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbly and fragrant.
Serve: Serve the apple crisp warm, optionally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 6 servings

Variations

Different Apple Varieties: While Golden Delicious apples are great for this recipe, you can experiment with other varieties like Granny Smith or Fuji apples for a different flavor profile.
Nutty Topping: Add some chopped walnuts or pecans to the topping mixture for extra crunch and flavor.
Gluten-Free Version: Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe gluten-free.
Spices: If you like more spice, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the apple mixture.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover apple crisp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, place the apple crisp in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, microwave individual servings for 20–30 seconds.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of apple for this recipe?

Yes, you can use other apple varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji. Just make sure to adjust the sugar if your apples are sweeter or more tart.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the apple crisp and refrigerate it before baking. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve!

3. Can I use margarine instead of butter?

While butter will give the best flavor and texture, margarine can be used as a substitute if needed.

4. How do I make this recipe dairy-free?

Use dairy-free butter and ensure the ice cream or whipped cream you serve with it is dairy-free.

5. Can I freeze this apple crisp?

Yes, you can freeze the baked apple crisp. Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

6. How long does this apple crisp stay fresh?

When stored in an airtight container in the fridge, it will stay fresh for 2-3 days.

7. Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?

Absolutely! Simply double the ingredients and bake in a larger 9x13-inch dish. Adjust the baking time as necessary.

8. Can I skip the lemon juice in the apple mixture?

The lemon juice helps balance the sweetness of the apples and prevents browning, but you can skip it if needed.

9. Can I make the topping without oats?

Yes, you can omit the oats and make a simpler crumb topping with just flour, sugar, and butter.

10. What is the best way to serve apple crisp?

Apple crisp is best served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for added richness.

Conclusion

This Old Fashioned Easy Apple Crisp is the epitome of comfort food. Its combination of tender apples and a buttery, oat-packed topping is simply irresistible. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, this apple crisp is sure to become a favorite in your dessert rotation. Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize with your favorite toppings and variations. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the warm, nostalgic flavors of a classic dessert!

Old Fashioned Easy Apple Crisp

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Author: Emmily
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 6 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Old Fashioned Easy Apple Crisp is a timeless dessert that combines tender spiced apples with a crunchy, buttery oat topping. With warm cinnamon flavors and a hint of lemon, this easy-to-make apple crisp is the perfect comfort food for any occasion. Serve it warm with vanilla ice cream or caramel sauce for an extra treat!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven – Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8x8-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
Prepare the Apple Filling – In a mixing bowl, toss the chopped apples with granulated sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Transfer to the prepared baking dish.
Make the Topping – In another bowl, mix brown sugar, oats, flour, cinnamon, and salt. Add the diced butter and mix with a pastry cutter or hands until the mixture forms pea-sized crumbs.
Assemble & Bake – Spread the topping evenly over the apples and lightly press down. Bake for 40–50 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.
Serve – Enjoy warm with ice cream or whipped cream.

Notes

Apple Variety: Try Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji for a different flavor.
Make It Nutty: Add chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch.
Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F for 10–15 minutes or microwave individual servings for 20–30 seconds.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American