Old Fashioned Apple Crisp

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Old Fashioned Apple Crisp – Warm, Cozy & Comforting

Tender spiced apples under a buttery oat topping—this classic dessert is pure autumn bliss

Introduction: A Timeless Dessert That Never Disappoints

Few desserts evoke the warmth and comfort of home quite like a classic Old Fashioned Apple Crisp. It’s the kind of dish that brings back memories of family dinners, fall gatherings, and the irresistible scent of cinnamon and apples baking in the oven. With a tender apple filling and a golden, crumbly oat topping, this crisp is simple, satisfying, and endlessly adaptable.

Whether you serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoy it chilled with whipped cream, this apple crisp is a celebration of seasonal flavors and timeless tradition. It’s easy to make, perfect for sharing, and guaranteed to become a staple in your dessert rotation.

Ingredients Breakdown

Let’s take a closer look at what makes this crisp so comforting and delicious:

Apple Filling:

  • Apples (6–7 medium, Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix)
    Tart and sweet—perfect balance of flavor and texture.
  • Granulated sugar (½ cup)
    Sweetens the filling and helps draw out juices.
  • Cinnamon (1 tsp)
    Adds warmth and classic apple pie flavor.
  • Nutmeg (¼ tsp, optional)
    Adds depth and a hint of spice.
  • All-purpose flour (1 tbsp)
    Thickens the filling slightly.
  • Lemon juice (1 tsp)
    Brightens the flavor and prevents browning.

Tip: Use a mix of tart and sweet apples for complexity.

Crisp Topping:

  • Old-Fashioned rolled oats (¾ cup)
    Adds texture and crunch.
  • All-purpose flour (½ cup)
    Helps bind the topping and adds structure.
  • Brown sugar (½ cup, light or dark)
    Adds sweetness and a hint of molasses.
  • Cinnamon (½ tsp)
    Echoes the flavor in the filling.
  • Salt (¼ tsp)
    Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
  • Unsalted butter (½ cup, cold and cubed)
    Creates a crumbly, golden topping.

Tip: Use cold butter and work quickly for the best texture.

Equipment Needed

  • Large mixing bowls
  • 9×13-inch baking dish
  • Pastry cutter or fork
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Peeler and knife
  • Oven

Optional: Use a mandoline for evenly sliced apples.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.

Step 2: Prepare the Apples

Peel, core, and slice 6–7 medium apples into thin slices.

Place in a large bowl.

Add:

  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • ¼ tsp nutmeg (optional)
  • 1 tbsp flour
  • 1 tsp lemon juice

Toss gently to coat all slices evenly.

Transfer apple mixture to the prepared baking dish.

Tip: Spread apples evenly for consistent baking.

Step 3: Make the Topping

In a separate bowl, combine:

  • ¾ cup oats
  • ½ cup flour
  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • ½ tsp cinnamon
  • ¼ tsp salt

Add ½ cup cold butter cubes.

Use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Optional: Add chopped nuts or shredded coconut for extra texture.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Sprinkle the topping evenly over the apple filling.

Bake for 40–45 minutes, until:

  • Topping is golden brown
  • Filling is bubbling around the edges

Let cool for 10–15 minutes before serving.

Tip: Cooling allows the filling to thicken slightly.

Step 5: Serve

Serve warm with:

  • Vanilla ice cream
  • Whipped cream
  • A drizzle of caramel sauce

Yields:

  • 6 servings

Presentation Tip: Serve in rustic bowls with a cinnamon stick or mint sprig for flair.

Serving Suggestions

Perfect for:

  • Fall gatherings
  • Holiday dinners
  • Weeknight desserts
  • Potluck parties

Pair with:

  • Hot apple cider
  • Chai tea
  • Bourbon or spiced rum

Tip: Make ahead and reheat gently in the oven for best texture.

Variations to Try

Want to make it your own? Try these delicious twists:

Pear Crisp

Swap apples for ripe pears and add ginger.

Tropical Crisp

Add pineapple chunks and shredded coconut.

Mini Crisps

Bake in ramekins for individual servings.

Vegan Version

Use plant-based butter and coconut sugar.

Nutty Crisp

Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the topping.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

  • Make-Ahead: Assemble and refrigerate up to 1 day in advance.
  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Freeze: Freeze baked crisp for up to 1 month. Thaw and reheat in oven.

Tip: Reheat at 325°F for 10–15 minutes to restore crispiness.

Nutrition Notes (Per Serving, ~1 of 6)

  • Calories: ~350
  • Protein: ~3g
  • Carbohydrates: ~45g
  • Fat: ~18g
  • Sugar: ~28g
  • Sodium: ~120mg
  • Fiber: ~4g

This dessert is:

  • Warm and cozy
  • Sweet and spiced
  • Perfectly portioned
  • Great for sharing

Final Thoughts

This Old Fashioned Apple Crisp is more than just a dessert—it’s a celebration of comfort, flavor, and tradition. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just treating yourself, it’s guaranteed to satisfy and impress.

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