Go Back

Apple Crisp Recipe

Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings 8 servings

Equipment

  • 9x9-inch baking dish
  • Mixing bowls (one for apples, one for topping)
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Peeler and knife
  • Rubber spatula or wooden spoon

Ingredients
  

For the Apple Filling:

  • 6 medium apples Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, peeled and sliced
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 2 teaspoons cornstarch

For the Crisp Topping:

  • 1 cup old-fashioned oats
  • 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar packed
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x9-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
  • Prepare the apples: Peel, core, and slice them evenly. Toss them in a bowl with lemon juice, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cornstarch until well coated. Spread evenly in the baking dish.
  • Make the topping: In a separate bowl, combine oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Pour in the melted butter and mix until crumbly.
  • Assemble and bake: Sprinkle the oat mixture evenly over the apple filling. Bake for about 40 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the apples are bubbling underneath.
  • Cool slightly before serving. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for the ultimate treat.

Notes

Tips for the Perfect Apple Crisp

  • Use a mix of tart and sweet apples for more flavor depth.
  • Slice apples evenly so they cook at the same rate.
  • Don’t overmix the topping—crumbly texture makes it crispier.
  • Add a pinch of sea salt to enhance the caramel-like flavor of the brown sugar.
  • Let it rest for 10 minutes after baking so the filling thickens.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Using overly soft apples: They’ll turn mushy instead of tender.
  • Skipping cornstarch: It helps thicken the apple filling.
  • Using instant oats: They can make the topping soggy instead of crisp.
  • Baking at too low a temperature: You need a good 350°F for that golden crunch.

Variations and Substitutions

  • Gluten-Free: Use certified gluten-free oats and almond flour.
  • Vegan: Swap butter for coconut oil or vegan butter.
  • Nutty Twist: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the topping for crunch.
  • Berry Crisp: Mix in 1 cup of blueberries or cranberries with the apples for a tart burst.
  • Maple Flavor: Replace half the sugar with pure maple syrup for a richer taste.