Cinnamon Apple Crisp

It’s funny how some recipes just become instant classics in your household. For us, this Cinnamon Apple Crisp is one of those. From the first time I baked it, the aroma of warm cinnamon and sweet apples filled the kitchen, instantly creating a cozy, comforting atmosphere. My family, who are usually quite discerning dessert critics, devoured it in minutes. The kids loved the sweet, soft apples and the crunchy, buttery topping, while my husband and I appreciated the perfect balance of flavors and textures. It’s become our go-to dessert for fall gatherings, cozy weeknights, and honestly, any time we crave a little bit of homemade happiness. It’s simple enough to whip up on a whim, yet impressive enough to serve to guests. If you’re looking for a dessert that’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser, look no further – this Cinnamon Apple Crisp is it!

Ingredients

• Apples: (6-8 medium, about 3 pounds) The star of the show! Choose firm, flavorful apples that hold their shape during baking. Varieties like Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, Fuji, or Gala are excellent choices. A mix of sweet and tart apples provides the best flavor complexity.
• All-Purpose Flour: (1 ½ cups) Forms the base of both the apple filling and the crisp topping. It provides structure and helps thicken the apple juices as they bake.
• Rolled Oats: (1 cup, Old-Fashioned) Adds a delightful chewiness and nutty flavor to the crisp topping. Old-fashioned oats are preferred for their texture, but quick oats can be used in a pinch, though the texture might be slightly finer.
• Brown Sugar: (¾ cup, packed light or dark) Sweetens both the apple filling and the topping, adding a rich molasses flavor that complements the cinnamon and apples beautifully. Light or dark brown sugar can be used; dark brown sugar will impart a slightly more intense molasses taste.
• Granulated Sugar: (½ cup) Enhances the sweetness of the apple filling and provides a lighter sweetness to balance the brown sugar in the topping.
• Cinnamon: (2 teaspoons, ground) The quintessential spice for apple desserts! Cinnamon warms the flavors and creates that classic comforting aroma. Use good quality cinnamon for the best flavor.
• Nutmeg: (½ teaspoon, ground) A warm, slightly spicy spice that adds depth and complexity to the apple filling. Freshly grated nutmeg is even better if you have it, but ground nutmeg works perfectly well.
• Salt: (½ teaspoon) Enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors of all the ingredients. A pinch of salt is crucial in both sweet and savory baking.
• Cold Unsalted Butter: (¾ cup, 1 ½ sticks, cut into small cubes) The secret to a truly crisp topping! Cold butter creates pockets of air in the topping as it melts during baking, resulting in a wonderfully crumbly and crisp texture. Unsalted butter allows you to control the salt level in the recipe.
• Lemon Juice: (1 tablespoon, fresh) Brightens the apple filling and prevents the apples from browning. Fresh lemon juice is preferred for its vibrant flavor.
• Cornstarch: (2 tablespoons) Helps thicken the apple juices as they bake, preventing the filling from becoming too watery and ensuring a perfect consistency.

Instructions

1. Preheat Your Oven and Prepare Your Baking Dish: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the oven is at the correct temperature when you place the apple crisp inside, promoting even baking. While the oven preheats, grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Greasing the dish prevents the apple crisp from sticking and makes serving and cleanup easier. You can use butter, cooking spray, or even parchment paper to line the bottom if desired.
2. Prepare the Apples: The apples are the heart of this dessert, so proper preparation is key. Wash, peel, and core your chosen apples. Peeling is optional, but it results in a softer apple filling. If you prefer more texture, you can leave the peels on. Once peeled and cored, slice the apples into ¼-inch thick slices. Uniform slices ensure even cooking. Place the sliced apples in a large bowl.
3. Make the Apple Filling: Now it’s time to infuse the apples with flavor and prepare them for baking. In the bowl with the sliced apples, add the granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and cornstarch. The granulated sugar provides sweetness, while cinnamon and nutmeg bring warmth and spice. Lemon juice adds brightness and prevents browning. Cornstarch acts as a thickening agent, ensuring the apple filling isn’t too watery. Toss all the ingredients together gently but thoroughly to ensure the apples are evenly coated with the sugar and spices.
4. Prepare the Crisp Topping: The crisp topping is what makes this dessert truly irresistible. In a separate medium-sized bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, and salt. All-purpose flour provides structure, rolled oats add chewiness and texture, brown sugar contributes sweetness and a hint of molasses, and salt enhances all the flavors. Whisk these dry ingredients together to ensure they are evenly distributed.
5. Incorporate the Cold Butter: This is a crucial step for achieving a perfectly crisp topping. Add the cold, cubed unsalted butter to the bowl with the dry ingredients. Using your fingers or a pastry blender, cut the butter into the dry ingredients. The goal is to create pea-sized crumbs. The cold butter and the process of cutting it in create pockets of air within the topping. As the butter melts in the oven, these pockets of air create a light, crumbly, and crisp texture. Continue cutting in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with some slightly larger butter pieces still visible. Don’t overmix; you want to maintain those small butter pieces for the best texture.
6. Assemble the Apple Crisp: Now it’s time to bring everything together. Pour the prepared apple filling into the greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly across the bottom. Distribute the crisp topping evenly over the apple filling. Make sure to cover the apples completely with the topping for a uniform crisp. Gently press the topping down slightly to help it adhere to the apples. This is optional, but can help prevent the topping from becoming too loose.
7. Bake the Apple Crisp: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apple filling is bubbly. The baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven and the type of apples used. The topping should be nicely browned and crisp, and you should see the apple juices bubbling around the edges and possibly through the topping in spots. To ensure the topping doesn’t get too dark before the apples are cooked through, you can loosely tent the dish with aluminum foil for the last 10-15 minutes of baking if needed.
8. Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the apple crisp from the oven and let it cool slightly for at least 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the filling to set up a bit and prevents burning your mouth. While it’s delicious warm, it’s also enjoyable at room temperature. Serve warm, preferably with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra touch of indulgence. Enjoy your homemade Cinnamon Apple Crisp!

Nutrition Facts

(Per serving, approximate values. Nutritional values can vary based on specific ingredients and serving size.)

• Serving Size: (Approximately 1/8 of the 9×13 inch dish) This recipe is typically cut into 8 to 12 servings, depending on desired portion sizes. An 1/8th portion is a reasonable serving size for a dessert.
• Calories: (Around 350-450 calories) Apple crisp is a moderately calorie-dense dessert due to the butter, sugar, and oats. The exact calorie count will depend on the precise measurements and ingredients used.
• Total Fat: (15-20 grams) The fat content primarily comes from the butter in the crisp topping. While some fat is essential for flavor and texture, be mindful of portion sizes if you are watching your fat intake.
• Sugar: (30-40 grams) A significant portion of the sugar comes from the added sugars (granulated and brown sugar) as well as the natural sugars in the apples. This is a dessert, so sugar content is expected, but moderation is key.
• Fiber: (3-5 grams) Apples and oats contribute dietary fiber to this dessert. Fiber is beneficial for digestion and can help you feel fuller for longer. It also has other health benefits like regulating blood sugar levels.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: (Approximately 20-25 minutes) This includes the time to wash, peel, and slice the apples, mix the filling ingredients, and prepare the crisp topping. It’s a relatively quick dessert to assemble, making it perfect for weeknights or spontaneous baking sessions.
• Cook Time: (35-45 minutes) The baking time allows the apples to soften, the filling to bubble and thicken, and the topping to become golden brown and crisp. The oven does most of the work, leaving you free to do other things while it bakes.
• Total Time: (Around 55-70 minutes) From start to finish, you can have a warm, delicious Cinnamon Apple Crisp ready to enjoy in just over an hour. This includes both preparation and baking time.

How to Serve

This Cinnamon Apple Crisp is delightful on its own, but it truly shines when paired with complementary flavors and textures. Here are some delicious ways to serve it:

• Warm with Vanilla Ice Cream:
  • The classic pairing! The cold, creamy vanilla ice cream melts slightly over the warm apple crisp, creating a delightful contrast in temperature and texture.
  • The vanilla flavor enhances the cinnamon and apple notes without overpowering them.
  • Consider using a high-quality vanilla bean ice cream for an even more luxurious experience.
• With a Dollop of Whipped Cream:
  • Light and airy whipped cream adds a touch of elegance and richness.
  • You can use store-bought whipped cream for convenience or make your own homemade whipped cream for superior flavor and texture.
  • For extra flavor, try adding a hint of vanilla extract or cinnamon to your whipped cream.
• Drizzled with Caramel Sauce:
  • Caramel sauce elevates the sweetness and adds a decadent touch.
  • The buttery, rich caramel complements the cinnamon and apples beautifully.
  • Use store-bought caramel sauce or make your own homemade caramel for a truly special treat. Salted caramel sauce would also be a fantastic choice.
• With a Sprinkle of Chopped Nuts:
  • Adds extra crunch and nutty flavor.
  • Toasted pecans or walnuts are excellent choices that complement the apple and cinnamon flavors.
  • Sprinkle the chopped nuts over the crisp just before serving for the best texture.
• Alongside a Warm Beverage:
  • Perfect for cozy evenings.
  • Pair with a cup of hot coffee, tea, or spiced cider.
  • The warmth of the beverage enhances the comforting flavors of the apple crisp.
• As a Brunch or Dessert Bar Item:
  • Serve as part of a larger brunch spread or dessert buffet.
  • It’s easy to make ahead and transport, making it a great option for gatherings.
  • Offer a variety of toppings like ice cream, whipped cream, caramel sauce, and nuts so guests can customize their servings.

Additional Tips for the Perfect Cinnamon Apple Crisp

1. Use a Mix of Apple Varieties: For the most complex and delicious flavor, don’t be afraid to mix different types of apples. Combining sweet apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji with tart apples like Granny Smith creates a balanced and interesting flavor profile. The different textures also contribute to a more appealing filling.
2. Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Dish: Ensure the apples are in a single layer in the baking dish. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and a soggy filling. If you have too many apples for your dish, use a larger baking dish or bake in two smaller dishes.
3. Use Cold Butter for the Topping: This is crucial for achieving that signature crisp texture. Cold butter creates pockets of air in the topping as it melts in the oven, resulting in a crumbly and crisp consistency. Make sure your butter is straight from the refrigerator and cut it into small cubes just before adding it to the dry ingredients.
4. Cut the Butter into the Dry Ingredients Properly: Whether you use your fingers or a pastry blender, the goal is to cut the cold butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Don’t overmix or melt the butter with the warmth of your hands. You want to see small pieces of butter still visible in the mixture.
5. Adjust Spices to Your Preference: While cinnamon and nutmeg are classic choices, feel free to experiment with other warm spices like ginger, cloves, or cardamom. Start with the recommended amounts and adjust to your liking. You can also add a pinch of allspice for extra warmth.
6. Add a Touch of Lemon Zest: For an extra burst of flavor, add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the apple filling along with the lemon juice. The lemon zest enhances the citrusy notes and brightens up the overall flavor of the dessert.
7. Toast the Oats (Optional): For an even nuttier and more pronounced oat flavor in the topping, you can lightly toast the rolled oats before adding them to the dry ingredients. Spread the oats in a single layer on a baking sheet and toast in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5-7 minutes, or until lightly golden and fragrant, stirring occasionally. Let them cool completely before using.
8. Don’t Overbake: Keep a close eye on the apple crisp towards the end of baking. You want the topping to be golden brown and crisp, and the apple filling to be bubbly. Overbaking can make the topping too dry and the apples mushy. Once it reaches the desired golden brown color and bubbly consistency, it’s ready to come out of the oven.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use different types of apples?
   • Absolutely! Using a variety of apples is actually recommended for the best flavor and texture. Good choices include Honeycrisp, Fuji, Gala, Granny Smith, Braeburn, and Pink Lady. A mix of sweet and tart apples works particularly well.
2. Can I make apple crisp ahead of time?
   • Yes, you can prepare the apple filling and the crisp topping separately up to a day ahead of time. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Assemble and bake the crisp just before serving for the best results. Baked apple crisp is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days.
3. How do I store leftover apple crisp?
   • Store leftover apple crisp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, you can warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or microwave individual portions until heated through. The topping might lose some of its crispness upon reheating.
4. Can I freeze apple crisp?
   • Yes, you can freeze baked apple crisp. Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through and the topping is crisp again.
5. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
   • Yes! To make this apple crisp gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour in both the filling and the topping with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Ensure your rolled oats are certified gluten-free as well, as some oats can be processed in facilities that also handle wheat.
6. Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?
   • You can reduce the sugar slightly, but keep in mind that sugar contributes to both sweetness and texture. You can reduce the granulated sugar in the apple filling by about ¼ cup and the brown sugar in the topping by about ¼ cup without significantly affecting the outcome. If you reduce it too much, the apples might be too tart and the topping might not be as crisp.
7. Can I add nuts to the topping?
   • Absolutely! Adding chopped nuts like pecans, walnuts, or almonds to the topping adds extra flavor and crunch. Add about ½ cup of chopped nuts to the dry ingredients for the topping before cutting in the butter.
8. Why is my apple crisp topping not crisp?
   • The most common reason for a soggy topping is using butter that wasn’t cold enough, or overmixing the topping mixture. Make sure your butter is very cold and cut it into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Also, avoid overcrowding the baking dish with apples, as this can create excess moisture. Ensure you are baking it at the correct temperature for the recommended time.

Print