Lu-Ann Simon October 18, 2025

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Small Batch Apple Crisp

Name: Small Batch Apple Crisp
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 medium apples, peeled and sliced; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1/4 cup oats; 1/4 cup flour; 1/4 cup butter, softened; 1/4 cup sugar

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As the cool breeze of autumn begins to swirl outside, there’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of a freshly baked Small Batch Apple Crisp wafting through your kitchen. This delightful dessert, with its sweet and tangy apple filling mingled with a crunchy, buttery topping, creates a perfect cozy atmosphere for gatherings or a cozy night in. Whether enjoyed after a hearty meal or as a calming snack while curled up with a good book, this small-batch treat is sure to warm your heart.

What Makes This Small Batch Apple Crisp Special

There’s something undeniably special about Small Batch Apple Crisp. It’s the perfect way to indulge in a classic dessert without overwhelming your kitchen or your belly. Here are a few reasons why you’ll cherish this recipe:

Each bite offers a balance of sweet and tart flavors.
The comforting smell of baked apples fills the air.
It’s quick to prepare, ideal for weeknight cravings.
You can easily customize it with various toppings or spices.

Gather These Ingredients

To make this Small Batch Apple Crisp, you’ll want to have the essentials ready at hand. These ingredients work harmoniously together, but feel free to swap or add your favorites. Here’s what you need:

2 medium apples, peeled and sliced
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/4 cup oats
1/4 cup flour
1/4 cup butter, softened
1/4 cup sugar

These ingredients come together to create a warm, delightful dessert that you’ll love.

Step by Step Preparation of Small Batch Apple Crisp

Ready to dive into the baking process? Follow these simple steps to create your delicious Small Batch Apple Crisp:

First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This warming-up phase is essential for achieving that perfectly baked crisp.
Then, in a bowl, mix together your sliced apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice, creating a zesty and fragrant mixture. Once combined, pour the apple mixture into a small baking dish, spreading it evenly to ensure every bit gets that lovely flavor.
Next, grab another bowl and combine oats, flour, sugar, and softened butter. Use your fingers or a fork to mix until the mixture resembles a crumbly texture, which will form the delightful topping.
Sprinkle this crunchy oat mixture generously over the apple filling, covering it well to create a lattice of texture above the luscious fruit.
Bake your crisp in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the topping has turned a beautiful golden brown. This step fills your kitchen with an inviting aroma that will surely build anticipation.
Finally, serve your Small Batch Apple Crisp warm, and for an extra treat, add a scoop of ice cream on top. The combination of warm crisp and cold ice cream is heavenly.

Prep ~ 10 minutes, Cook ~ 30 minutes, Total ~ 40 minutes, Servings ~ 2-4, Kcal ~ 280.

Plan Ahead

If you want to make this Small Batch Apple Crisp even simpler, you can prep some elements ahead of time. Slice your apples and toss them with lemon juice to prevent browning, then store them in the fridge. You can also mix the dry ingredients for the topping in advance. When you’re ready to bake, just assemble and pop it in the oven.

How to Store Leftovers

If you find yourself with any leftover Small Batch Apple Crisp, don’t worry! You can store it easily:

In the fridge, it stays fresh for about 3-4 days, covered well to maintain moisture.
For longer storage, consider freezing it! Seal it tightly in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat in the oven at a low temperature to bring back its original texture.

To keep it fresh, try to avoid topping it with ice cream until you’re ready to serve.

Perfect Pairings

Looking for the perfect accompaniments to enhance your Small Batch Apple Crisp experience? Here are some delicious ideas:

Vanilla ice cream, for a classic contrast of temperatures.
Whipped cream, offering a light and fluffy texture.
Caramel sauce, adding an indulgent sweetness.
A dollop of Greek yogurt, providing a tangy twist.
Fresh whipped cream, introducing a homemade touch.

Make It Your Own

The beauty of this Small Batch Apple Crisp lies in its customizability. Here are a few ideas to switch things up or enhance your dessert:

Swap out apples for pears or peaches, if in season, for a different flavor profile.
Add chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans to the topping for extra crunch.
Use maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a unique sweetness.
Sprinkle in some raisins or cranberries for added texture and flavor.
Mix in some ginger or nutmeg with the spices for a warmer seasoning.

Cook’s Notes and Secrets

For the best Small Batch Apple Crisp, here are some professional tips:

Use a mix of tart and sweet apples to balance the flavors perfectly.
Allow for some resting time after baking, as the crisp will set and enhance in flavor.
If you prefer a crunchier topping, consider baking it a bit longer, keeping an eye on the color.
Don’t overcrowd the baking dish; give the apples room to soften and caramelize.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I use frozen apples for this recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw and drain them before using to avoid excess moisture.
What if I don’t have oats?
You can substitute with crushed graham crackers for a different texture but maintain a crumbly topping.
Is it necessary to peel the apples?
While peeling is traditional, keeping the skin on can add a delightful texture and nutrients.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just use a larger baking dish to accommodate the increased volume.
How can I tell when the crisp is done baking?
The topping should be golden brown, and you should be able to pierce the apples easily with a fork.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, Small Batch Apple Crisp is a simple yet satisfying dessert that captures the essence of fall. Its warm and inviting flavors, paired with the crunchy topping, make it a perfect choice for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat after dinner or a cozy snack on a chilly evening, this apple crisp is sure to become a cherished favorite. So why not gather your ingredients and bake it soon? You’ll be glad you did!

Small Batch Apple Crisp

Author: lu-ann
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 2-4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A delightful small batch apple crisp with sweet and tangy apple filling topped with a crunchy, buttery mixture, perfect for cozy gatherings or a relaxing evening.

Ingredients

Scale

2 medium apples, peeled and sliced
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/4 cup oats
1/4 cup flour
1/4 cup butter, softened
1/4 cup sugar

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a bowl, mix sliced apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Pour the mixture into a small baking dish.
In another bowl, combine oats, flour, sugar, and softened butter to form a crumbly topping.
Sprinkle the topping over the apple filling.
Bake for 25-30 minutes until apples are tender and the topping is golden brown.
Serve warm, optional to add a scoop of ice cream on top.

Notes

Can be prepared ahead of time; store sliced apples with lemon juice in the fridge. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American