Post Title

By

September 21, 2025

There’s something undeniably nostalgic about baking an apple crisp. For many of us, it conjures up memories of autumn afternoons spent at home, where the smell of cinnamon and baked apples wafts through the kitchen. Perhaps it was a beloved family recipe passed down through generations or a warm treat after a cold day of apple picking. Whatever the origin, this delightful dessert always brings comfort and joy, making it a quintessential fall favorite. If you’re looking for the perfect way to embrace the season, look no further than this classic apple crisp. Much like the cozy flavor of mini pumpkin bundt cakes, it delivers the warm nostalgia of autumn.

Apple crisp served in a white dish with oat topping and scoops of vanilla ice cream
Homemade apple crisp with golden oat topping and vanilla ice cream.

Why Make Apple Crisp

Apple crisp is the epitome of a comforting dessert, combining the sweet and tart flavor of baked apples with a crunchy, buttery topping. This crowd-pleasing dish is not only easy to prepare but also allows for creative freedom whether you prefer it light and fruity or rich and buttery. One of the best parts? It’s a delightfully versatile dessert that suits nearly any occasion, from cozy family dinners to festive potlucks. Apple desserts always shine this season, and treats like sourdough discard apple cake are perfect companions to this crisp.

Autumn is the perfect season for this dish, as it brings an abundance of apples ready for picking. With just a handful of ingredients, a sprinkle of cinnamon, and a hint of brown sugar, you’re in for a treat that celebrates the hearty flavors of fall. The contrast in textures the soft, warm apples enveloped in a crispy topping creates an indulgent experience that will entice anyone who takes a bite. Plus, it’s a dessert that pairs wonderfully with ice cream or whipped cream, turning any ordinary meal into a special occasion. So gather your apples, and let’s dive into how to create this beloved classic!

How to Make Apple Crisp

Ingredients

  • 6 cups peeled and sliced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 cup rolled oats
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Directions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large bowl, toss the sliced apples with granulated sugar, lemon juice, and ground cinnamon. Pour this mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
  3. In another bowl, combine rolled oats, flour, brown sugar, and salt. Mix well.
  4. Cut in the softened butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  5. Sprinkle the oat mixture evenly over the apples in the baking dish.
  6. Bake for 30–40 minutes or until the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown.
  7. Allow it to cool slightly before serving.

Tips for Success

  • Apple Selection: Use a mix of tart and sweet apples for a more complex flavor profile.
  • Texture: For an extra crispy topping, bake a little longer or broil for a few minutes at the end—but keep an eye on it to prevent burning!
  • Serve Warm: This dessert is best served warm out of the oven, especially with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for contrast.

Serving and Storage Ideas

Best Ways to Serve

Apple crisp is wonderfully versatile for serving. It shines on its own but can also be elevated with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce. Consider pairing it with a scoop of cinnamon or salted caramel ice cream for a seasonal delight. For gatherings, you can serve it in individual ramekins to add a touch of elegance.

Storage Tips

To store leftover apple crisp, cover it with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. For longer storage, freeze individual servings in freezer-safe containers. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Variations of Apple Crisp

Simple Variations

For those with dietary restrictions, this recipe can easily be adapted. Substitute gluten-free flour for all-purpose flour to make it gluten-free. For a vegan option, replace butter with coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute, and use maple syrup instead of sugar.
For another fruit-filled spin, you might enjoy the richness of sourdough peach cobbler cinnamon rolls when you want a cozy twist beyond apples.

Creative Twists

Consider adding unique flavors by incorporating nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, for extra crunch. You can also mix in other fruits like pears or berries for a different spin. For a seasonal touch, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or swapping the regular oats for spiced oatmeal.

Print

Classic Apple Crisp

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

A nostalgic and comforting dessert featuring baked apples with a crunchy, buttery topping perfect for fall.

  • Author: janna
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 cups peeled and sliced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 cup rolled oats
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large bowl, toss the sliced apples with granulated sugar, lemon juice, and ground cinnamon. Pour this mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
  3. In another bowl, combine rolled oats, flour, brown sugar, and salt. Mix well.
  4. Cut in the softened butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  5. Sprinkle the oat mixture evenly over the apples in the baking dish.
  6. Bake for 30–40 minutes or until the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown.
  7. Allow it to cool slightly before serving.

Notes

Best served warm with vanilla ice cream. For extra crunch, top with nuts or mix in other fruits.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 280
  • Sugar: 25g
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 42g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 20mg

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us — we can’t wait to see what you’ve made!

FAQs

Can I make apple crisp ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the apple filling and crumble topping separately and assemble them just before baking.

What’s the best type of apple for apple crisp?

Tart apples like Granny Smith are excellent for contrast, but sweeter varieties like Honeycrisp can add delightful flavor as well.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to use a larger baking dish and increase the baking time as needed.

How can I prevent the apples from browning?

Toss the sliced apples in lemon juice right after slicing to help prevent browning.

Is apple crisp nutritious?

Apple crisp contains fruit and oats, but it can also be high in sugar and butter. To make healthier adjustments, reduce sugar or swap in whole grains. For balanced eating advice, you can review guidance from Harvard’s Nutrition Source.

Final Thoughts

Baking an apple crisp is not just about making dessert; it’s about creating memories and sharing moments with loved ones. The combination of sweet apples and crunchy topping offers a comforting embrace that feels like autumn in every bite. Whether enjoyed warm after dinner or as a delightful afternoon snack, this classic recipe is worth making, especially when apples are in season. So grab some apples and let the sweet aromas fill your kitchen deliciousness awaits!

Leave a Comment

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star