Cinnamon Apple Crisp is a warm and cozy dessert that’s perfect for fall. It features sweet, tender apples topped with a crunchy, buttery oat mixture and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
This dish is so easy to make; just mix the apples and topping together, bake, and enjoy! I love serving it warm with a scoop of ice cream on top—pure happiness in a bowl!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: A mix of tart like Granny Smith and sweet varieties like Fuji makes this dish shine. If you’re short on time, pre-sliced apples are also available. You can swap in pears or even peaches if you want a change!
Granulated Sugar & Lemon Juice: These balance the sweetness of the apples. If you’re aiming for lower sugar, consider using a sugar substitute or maple syrup. The lemon juice brightens the flavors—don’t skip this step!
Cinnamon: This is the signature spice for this recipe. Feel free to experiment with spices like allspice or cardamom for a unique twist. I often add a touch more cinnamon for extra warmth!
Rolled Oats: Old-fashioned oats give a great crunch. Instant oats can work in a pinch, but they won’t provide the same texture. Gluten-free oats also make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals.
How Can I Get the Perfect Crisp Topping?
The topping is what makes a great apple crisp stand out. The key is in mixing the cold butter into the oat mixture properly. Aim for a crumbly texture with some larger chunks for added crunch.
- First, keep your butter cold. This helps achieve that crispy topping.
- Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to combine. Avoid overmixing, as you want some butter pieces to remain.
- Spread the topping evenly over the apples to ensure every bite has that delightful crunch.
Baking until golden brown is crucial; this gives you that beautiful contrast against the soft apples. Let it cool slightly before digging in for easier serving!
Cinnamon Apple Crisp Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 6 cups peeled, cored, and sliced apples (about 6 medium apples, mixing tart like Granny Smith and sweet like Fuji)
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon (divided)
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
For the Topping:
- 3/4 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
For Serving:
- Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream (optional)
Time Needed:
This delicious Cinnamon Apple Crisp takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 40-45 minutes to bake. Allow some time for cooling before serving, and you’ll have around an hour to enjoy the delightful aromas as it bakes! Overall, it’s a comforting dessert ready in under an hour.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, lightly grease a 9-inch pie dish or a similar baking dish to prepare for the crisp.
2. Prepare the Apple Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, toss the sliced apples with lemon juice, granulated sugar, 1/2 tsp of ground cinnamon, salt, and nutmeg (if you’re using it). Make sure the apple slices are coated well. Once mixed, spread the apple mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
3. Make the Topping:
In another bowl, mix together the rolled oats, flour, brown sugar, and the remaining 1/2 tsp of ground cinnamon. Add the cold butter pieces into the dry mix. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to combine until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs, with some pieces remaining about the size of a pea for extra crunch.
4. Combine and Assemble:
Sprinkle your crumbly oat topping evenly over the apple layer spread out in the baking dish. Make sure it’s covered well for that classic crisp finish!
5. Bake:
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 40-45 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the apples are bubbling underneath and the topping is golden brown and crisp to the touch. Keep an eye on it toward the end to avoid over-browning.
6. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly. This lets the juices settle, making it easier to serve. Scoop out portions while warm, and offer a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top if you like!
Enjoy your warm, comforting Cinnamon Apple Crisp!
Can I Use Different Fruits for This Crisp?
Absolutely! While apples are traditional, you can use pears, peaches, or even mixed berries. Just adjust the sugar based on the sweetness of the fruit you choose.
Can I Make This Dessert Gluten-Free?
Yes! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure your oats are labeled gluten-free, as some can be cross-contaminated.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat individual servings in the microwave or bake it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes to revive that crispy topping.
Can I Prep This Apple Crisp Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare the apple filling and the topping separately and store them in the fridge. Assemble and bake when you’re ready to serve for a warm dessert with minimal effort!
