Apple Crisp Recipe is the ultimate comfort dessert that instantly fills your kitchen with the warm scent of cinnamon and baked apples. Whether you’re using freshly picked Honeycrisp or tart Granny Smiths, this timeless treat turns humble fruit into a golden, bubbling masterpiece. It’s simple, rustic, and delivers that nostalgic flavor we all crave during the cooler months.
This version is carefully crafted to be both foolproof and deeply satisfying. With a crumbly oat topping and just the right amount of sweetness, it’s a crowd-pleaser whether served on a weeknight or at your holiday table. Best of all? You probably have everything you need already in your pantry.
Table of Contents
❤️ Why I Love This Apple Crisp Recipe
There’s nothing quite like the aroma of apples and cinnamon baking in the oven—it instantly takes me back to cozy fall afternoons and family dinners. I love this apple crisp recipe because it’s simple, reliable, and incredibly comforting. No complicated steps, no unusual ingredients—just classic, homemade goodness.
The oat topping bakes up perfectly golden and crisp, while the apples become tender and juicy underneath. And the best part? It tastes like home. Whether served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or straight from the fridge the next morning (yes, I’ve done it!), this is one dessert I come back to again and again.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to make this comforting Apple Crisp Recipe from scratch. No fancy ingredients—just pantry staples and fresh apples.
- 5 cups fresh apples, sliced (about 4 large apples; Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Pink Lady work great)
- ½ cup granulated white sugar
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ⅓ cup old-fashioned oats
- ⅔ cup packed brown sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (for topping)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
Optional Add-ins:
- ¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts
- A pinch of nutmeg
- Caramel drizzle for serving
- Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream (highly recommended for serving!)
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make a warm, golden Apple Crisp Recipe that’s crisp on top and tender in the center.
- Preheat your oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a deep-dish pie plate or a medium-sized baking dish with butter or nonstick spray. - Prepare the apples
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced apples with granulated sugar, ½ teaspoon cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Toss until the apple slices are evenly coated. - Transfer to baking dish
Pour the coated apples into the greased baking dish, spreading them out into an even layer. - Make the topping
In a separate bowl, mix flour, oats, brown sugar, salt, and another ½ teaspoon cinnamon. Add the melted butter and stir until the mixture becomes crumbly and well combined. - Top the apples
Sprinkle the crumb mixture evenly over the apples, covering them completely. - Bake
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45–60 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown. If the top browns too quickly, loosely tent it with foil halfway through. - Cool & serve
Let the apple crisp cool slightly before serving. Serve warm with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel.
Recipe Details
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6 generous portions
Nutrition Facts (per serving – approximate)
- Calories: 260
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
- Sodium: 130mg
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 36g
- Vitamin C: 4mg
- Calcium: 25mg
- Iron: 1mg
Note: Nutrition values will vary depending on the type of apples and optional toppings used.
Tips & FAQs
What are the best apples to use?
For the perfect apple crisp recipe, use apples that hold their shape and offer a balance of sweetness and tartness. Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, Braeburn, and Pink Lady are all excellent choices.
Do I have to peel the apples?
Nope! Peeling is optional. The skins soften during baking and add extra fiber and texture. If you prefer a smoother filling, go ahead and peel them.
How do I prevent the topping from burning?
If the topping starts to brown too fast, tent the dish loosely with foil during the last 15 minutes of baking.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the apple crisp, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temp while the oven preheats.
Can I freeze apple crisp?
Absolutely. After baking and cooling, wrap the dish in plastic and foil, then freeze for up to 4 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 325°F until warmed through.
Add-ins and variations
- Chopped nuts: Pecans or walnuts add crunch to the topping.
- Spices: Try a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for deeper flavor.
- Toppings: Drizzle with caramel or top with whipped cream for extra indulgence.
Conclusion
There’s just something timeless about a homemade Apple Crisp Recipe—especially when it’s still warm and topped with a scoop of melting vanilla ice cream. With its buttery oat topping and tender, spiced apples, this dessert delivers all the cozy vibes of fall in every bite. Whether you’re baking for guests or just craving a sweet treat, this apple crisp will never disappoint.
Love delicious inspiration? Follow me on Pinterest (opens in a new tab) for quick dinners, baking ideas, and meal-prep tips!
More Posts
