This Apple Crisp in a Mug is the perfect cozy dessert! With warm, sweet apples and a crunchy topping, you can enjoy a delicious treat in minutes.
I love making this when I’m craving something sweet but don’t want to bake a whole pie. Just pop it in the microwave, and you’re ready for a tasty snack! 🍏✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apple: A small, sweet apple like Honeycrisp or Fuji works best for this recipe. If you’re in a pinch, you can use any apple you have on hand, even a tart variety like Granny Smith for a nice contrast.
Lemon Juice: This brightens the apple flavors. If you don’t have lemon juice, a little vinegar or apple cider can also work, though it may slightly change the taste.
Brown Sugar: Brown sugar adds a rich sweetness. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can replace it with honey or maple syrup, adjusting the amount slightly since they are sweeter.
Rolled Oats: These give a nice crunch to the topping. For a gluten-free version, use certified gluten-free oats. You can also substitute with crushed nuts or coconut for a different texture!
Butter: Cold unsalted butter is crucial for that crumbly topping. If you’re dairy-free, try using coconut oil or a dairy-free butter alternative.
How Do I Microwave the Apple Crisp Without It Overflows?
Microwaving can be tricky, especially with bubbling toppings! Here’s how to avoid that messy overflow:
- Use a large mug to give the apple crisp room to puff up.
- Keep an eye on it while microwaving. If it starts bubbling over, stop the microwave and let it settle for a minute.
- Reduce the power level if your microwave is strong, cooking it at medium power will help it cook evenly without a big mess.
Following these tips ensures you have a delicious treat without the hassle of cleaning up spills!
Apple Crisp in a Mug
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 small apple (about 1 cup), peeled, cored, and chopped
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon, divided
- 3 tbsp rolled oats
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp light brown sugar (for topping)
- 1 tbsp cold unsalted butter, cubed
- Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream (optional, for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Apple Crisp in a Mug takes just about 5 minutes to prepare and only 2–3 minutes to cook in the microwave. So, in about 10 minutes, you’ll have a warm, cozy dessert ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Apples:
Start by taking a microwave-safe mug and adding the chopped apple. Squeeze in the lemon juice, then sprinkle in 1 tablespoon of brown sugar and 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Give it a nice toss to combine, then microwave on high for 1 minute, or until the apples start to soften.
2. Make the Topping:
While the apples are cooking, grab a small bowl and mix together the rolled oats, flour, the remaining 1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon, and the light brown sugar. This will create a yummy, crunchy topping for your apple crisp!
3. Add Butter for Crumbly Goodness:
Add those cold butter cubes into your dry mixture. Using your fingers or a fork, rub the butter into the oatmeal mixture until it looks like coarse crumbs. This is what makes the topping nice and crispy!
4. Combine and Microwave:
Once your apples are done, take the mug out carefully (it’s hot!), and sprinkle the oat topping evenly over the softened apples. Pop the mug back in the microwave and heat on high for another 1 to 1 1/2 minutes, or until the topping is set and the apples are bubbly. Watch carefully to avoid overflow!
5. Enjoy Your Treat:
When done, take the mug out (using an oven mitt for safety!) and let it cool for a minute. Top it off with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for that extra touch of deliciousness. A little sprinkle of cinnamon on top can be nice too!
Now, dig in and enjoy your warm, cozy Apple Crisp in a Mug! It’s the perfect sweet treat for any time of day!
Can I Use Different Types of Apples?
Absolutely! Any variety of apple will work, but sweeter apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji offer the best flavors. For a tart contrast, Granny Smith is a great option!
How Do I Adjust Cooking Time for a Bigger Mug?
If you’re using a larger mug, you may need to increase the cooking time slightly by 30 seconds to ensure the apples are tender and the topping is cooked through. Just keep an eye on it to prevent overflow!
What Can I Substitute for the Oats?
If you want to skip the oats, you can use crushed nuts or granola for a different texture. For a gluten-free version, look for certified gluten-free oats or use almond flour!
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
For best results, this dessert is best enjoyed fresh after cooking. However, you can prep the apples and the oat mixture in advance, just assemble and microwave when you’re ready for a warm dessert!
