If you’re looking for a delicious and nostalgic dessert, look no further than this Old-Fashioned Easy Apple Crisp. It’s embodying flavors of autumn with tender, spiced apples layered beneath a crispy, buttery oatmeal topping. There’s truly nothing like enjoying a warm apple crisp fresh from the oven, especially when it’s served with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of salted caramel. This recipe combines simplicity and comfort, making it ideal for both weeknight dinners and special gatherings.

With its quick preparation time, you won’t have to spend hours in the kitchen. In about an hour, you can have this delectable dessert ready for your family or friends. As the sweet scent of baking apples fills your kitchen, you’ll be reminded of those cozy fall days spent baking with loved ones. And, the best part is, you can customize this apple crisp to make it your own. Whether you prefer Granny Smith apples for a tart kick or Golden Delicious apples for sweetness, this recipe can be adjusted to fit your taste.

No matter the occasion, this Old-Fashioned Easy Apple Crisp is sure to become a family favorite that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Dive into this comforting dessert that showcases the beauty of simple ingredients coming together to create something truly extraordinary.

Why You’ll Love This Old-Fashioned Easy Apple Crisp

Quick and easy: Ready in about an hour, perfect for a weeknight treat or holiday gathering.
Classic flavor: Tender apples spiced with cinnamon and brown sugar create a familiar and inviting taste.
Crunchy topping: Old-fashioned oats and a buttery crumble provide a delightful contrast in texture.
Customizable: Use your favorite apple varieties—Golden Delicious, Granny Smith, or Fuji all work beautifully.
Perfect with ice cream: A scoop of vanilla bean or whipped cream elevates this crisp to the next level.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before embarking on this apple crisp adventure, it’s crucial to prepare your kitchen and gather the essential tools for a seamless baking experience. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready once your dessert is assembled. You’ll need an 8×8 baking dish which can be buttered or sprayed with non-stick cooking spray for easy serving.

For mixing, have two bowls ready: one for the spiced apple mixture and another for the crisp topping. A pastry cutter or two forks will be handy for creating those lovely crumbs in the topping. If you’d like to increase efficiency, gather all your ingredients beforehand and set them out on your workspace for easy access. With some prep work out of the way, you’ll find the baking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Ingredients

Spiced Apples:
6 Golden Delicious apples, peeled and chopped (or your favorite variety)
2 tbsp granulated sugar
¾ tsp ground cinnamon
1½ tsp lemon juice
Crisp Topping:
1 cup light brown sugar
¾ cup old-fashioned oats (quick oats can be substituted)
¾ cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp ground cinnamon
Pinch of kosher salt
½ cup cold unsalted butter, diced

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Dish

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While your oven is heating up, take your 8×8 baking dish and either spread a layer of butter along the bottom and sides or spray it generously with non-stick cooking spray. This preparation step helps prevent the apples from sticking and ensures effortless serving.

Step 2: Create the Spiced Apple Mixture

In a medium mixing bowl, combine your chopped apples with granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and lemon juice. The lemon juice helps bring out the natural sweetness of the apples while keeping them fresh. Stir the mixture well this ensures that every piece of apple is evenly coated with the flavorful blend. After mixing, gently pour the apple mixture into the prepared baking dish, ensuring an even spread.

Step 3: Prepare the Crisp Topping

In a separate bowl, combine the brown sugar, old-fashioned oats, all-purpose flour, additional ground cinnamon, and a pinch of kosher salt. This combination gives your topping a sweet and nutty flavor profile. Next, add the cold, diced butter into the mix. Using a pastry cutter, two forks, or even your fingers, work the butter into the dry ingredients until you achieve a mixture that resembles pea-sized crumbs. This step is crucial as it adds that delightful crunch to your apple crisp.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Evenly sprinkle the crisp topping mixture over the spiced apples in the baking dish. As you do this, gently pat down the topping to ensure it bakes evenly. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 40 to 50 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you’ll know it’s done when the topping turns a beautiful golden brown and the apples start to bubble at the edges. This visual cue means all those flavors are melding together beautifully.

Step 5: Serve It Up!

Once the apple crisp is out of the oven, allow it to cool for a few moments before serving. Trust me, this is a dish best enjoyed warm! Scoop generous portions into bowls and top with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or whipped cream. If you’re feeling indulgent, add a drizzle of salted caramel for a decadent touch. Enjoy the flavors of fall!

Variations

Protein: Consider adding nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch and protein. Sprinkle them into the topping mixture for an extra nutty flavor.
Vegetables: For a twist, incorporate some chopped rhubarb or pears into the apple mixture for added depth and flavor contrast.
Spices: Experiment with spices like nutmeg or allspice to customize the flavor to your liking. A hint of ginger can also bring a nice warmth.

Cooking Notes

For an easier cleanup, consider lining your baking dish with parchment paper before pouring in the apple mixture.
Be sure to choose apples that hold their shape when baked, like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn.
This apple crisp can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for a day. Just reheat it in the oven before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a scoop of your favorite ice cream flavor, especially vanilla or caramel.
Serve alongside a hot cup of spiced apple cider for a comforting autumn treat.

Tips

Always taste your apples before adding sugar—some apples are sweeter than others.
Let the apple crisp cool for a few minutes after baking for easier serving; this helps the filling set slightly.
Don’t hesitate to top your crisp with a sprinkle of sea salt to enhance the sweetness further.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40–50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 300 per serving
Protein: 3g
Sodium: 200mg

FAQs

Can I use frozen apples for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen apples. Just ensure they’re fully thawed and drained before using to avoid excess moisture.

What’s the best way to store leftover apple crisp?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.

Can I make this apple crisp gluten-free?

Definitely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, and make sure your oats are certified gluten-free.

Is it possible to make the topping ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the crisp topping in advance. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before using it to top the apples.

Conclusion

This Old-Fashioned Easy Apple Crisp is an embodiment of comfort and nostalgia, making it the perfect dessert for any occasion. With its warm, spiced apples and crunchy topping, it is bound to leave a lasting impression on your family and friends. The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its flavors but also in its simplicity, inviting you to gather in the kitchen and create lasting memories. Don’t forget to try your variations and find out what delights your taste buds! Your comments and suggestions are welcome. Share this delightful dessert with those you love, and enjoy the warmth of apple crisp together!