Lu-Ann Simon October 18, 2025

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Apple Crisp

Name: Apple Crisp
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 cups sliced apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp); 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

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Apple Crisp envelops your kitchen in a warm, sweet aroma, transforming any ordinary day into a special occasion. This comforting dessert brings together the tartness of fresh apples, a hint of aromatic cinnamon, and a delectable crumbly topping that invites you to savor each bite. Perfect for family gatherings, cozy evenings by the fire, or as a delightful end to a weeknight dinner, Apple Crisp offers a nostalgic taste of homemade love that resonates with all who enjoy it.

Reasons to Love Apple Crisp

Apple Crisp is a beloved dessert for so many reasons, each bite promising a delightful symphony of flavors and textures. Its simplicity makes it approachable, allowing even novice bakers to create a dish that feels both impressive and satisfying.

Quick to prepare, yet so indulgent
Perfect warm or at room temperature
Easy to customize with different fruits
Great for celebrations or casual gatherings

This dessert is not just about taste—it’s about creating memories that linger long after the last crumb has been enjoyed.

Gather These Ingredients

Before diving into the delightful world of Apple Crisp, gather your ingredients. You can substitute different fruits for a unique twist or adjust the sweetness based on your preferences. Here’s what you will need:

6 cups sliced apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
1 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

These ingredients come together to create a harmonious balance of sweet and tart that is just heavenly.

Step by Step

First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This necessary step ensures the Apple Crisp bakes evenly, yielding that perfect golden topping and tender apples.
Then, in a large bowl, toss the sliced apples with granulated sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. The aroma of cinnamon paired with sweet apples creates an irresistible scent.
Next, spread the apple mixture evenly in a greased baking dish. Ensure the apples are nicely arranged to allow them to cook uniformly.
In another bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, and melted butter until crumbly. It should resemble a loose sand-like texture, ready to be sprinkled over the apple mixture.
Sprinkle the crumbly mixture over the apples, creating a delightful topping that will turn golden and crisp as it bakes.
Finally, bake for about 30-35 minutes or until the apples are tender and the topping is beautifully golden brown. As it bakes, your home will fill with a cozy aroma that’s hard to resist. Serve warm for the best experience.

Prep ~ 15 minutes, Cook ~ 35 minutes, Total ~ 50 minutes, Servings ~ 8, Kcal ~ 270 per serving.

Prepare in Advance

If you’re planning to enjoy Apple Crisp later, preparation can make your life easier. You can slice the apples and mix them with sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice a few hours in advance. Store the mixture in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. The topping can also be prepped ahead of time. Just keep it in an airtight container in the fridge and combine everything just before baking for a fresh, warm dessert that tastes homemade.

Storing and Reheating

To keep your leftover Apple Crisp fresh, store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. It will generally last for about 3 days. If you’d like to enjoy it later, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just ensure it’s well wrapped to protect it from freezer burn. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at low heat or in the microwave until the desired temperature is reached. For added freshness, you can top it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream when serving.

Perfect Pairings

Here are some delightful suggestions to enhance your Apple Crisp experience:

Vanilla ice cream: The creamy sweetness beautifully complements the warm, spiced apples.
Whipped cream: Light and airy, it adds a perfect balance to the richness of the dish.
Caramel sauce: Drizzle over for an indulgent touch that elevates every bite.
Aged cheddar cheese: For a savory contrast, a slice of sharp cheddar brings wonderful complexity to the sweet flavors.

Variations and Swaps

Make your Apple Crisp your own with a few easy adjustments:

Different fruits: Experiment with berries, peaches, or pears for a refreshing twist.
Nutty add-ins: Toss in walnuts, pecans, or almonds for extra crunch.
Oat topping: Substitute half the flour with rolled oats for a heartier texture.
Spices: Try adding nutmeg, ginger, or allspice for a more complex flavor profile.
Maple syrup: Use maple syrup in place of brown sugar for a rich, deep sweetness.

Cook’s Notes and Secrets

Making the perfect Apple Crisp can be effortless with a few professional tips:

Use tart apples for the best balance of sweetness and acidity.
Don’t overmix the topping; a few lumps will create a better texture.
Let the Apple Crisp cool for at least 10 minutes before serving, allowing the juices to set.
Aim for a golden-brown topping for a crispy finish.
If using a glass dish, adjust the baking time slightly, as glass retains heat differently.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I use frozen apples?
While fresh apples are preferred, you can use frozen ones. Just ensure they’re thawed and drained of excess moisture.
What varieties of apples are best for Apple Crisp?
Tart and crisp apples such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn are ideal for a balanced flavor.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Definitely. Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend and ensure your oats are certified gluten-free if you choose to use them.
Is it necessary to peel the apples?
Peeling is not obligatory. Leaving the skin on adds texture and a pop of color, but peeled apples give a softer bite.
How do I prevent a soggy bottom?
Baking it in an even layer and allowing the apples to release juices before adding the topping helps.

Final Thoughts

Apple Crisp is more than just a dessert; it is a warm embrace of flavors and a connection to cherished memories around the table. With its delightful aroma and comforting textures, this recipe invites you to gather with loved ones and savor those precious moments. So bake a batch soon, and let the simple joy of Apple Crisp warm your heart and home. Enjoy every crumb!

Apple Crisp

Author: lu-ann
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A comforting dessert of tart apples and a crumbly topping, perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

6 cups sliced apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
1 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large bowl, toss the sliced apples with granulated sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice.
Spread the apple mixture evenly in a greased baking dish.
In another bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, and melted butter until crumbly.
Sprinkle the crumbly mixture over the apples.
Bake for about 30-35 minutes or until the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown.