There’s something truly comforting about the smell of cinnamon mingling with warm, baked apples drifting through the kitchen. One chilly afternoon, craving a homemade treat that wasn’t too complicated, I pulled together this Cinnamon Apple Crisp, and it instantly became a favorite. What I love most is how simple ingredients come together to create a dish that feels both cozy and elegant — perfect for sharing with family or impressing guests without hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re steering clear of fast food or just want a wholesome dessert that hits all the right notes, this crisp offers that perfect balance of tart fruit, spicy warmth, and a satisfyingly crunchy topping. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll be your go-to recipe whenever apple season rolls around.
Why choose Cinnamon Apple Crisp today?
Simple ingredients come together effortlessly for a dessert that feels like a warm hug. Bursting with flavor, the blend of tart apples and cinnamon spice creates a cozy taste that’s perfect for fall cravings. Quick to prepare, it saves time without sacrificing homemade goodness. Crunchy topping adds the ideal texture contrast, while its versatility lets you serve it solo, with ice cream, or alongside coffee. Plus, it’s a wholesome alternative to fast food sweets that satisfies your sweet tooth guilt-free!
Cinnamon Apple Crisp Ingredients
For the Apple Filling
- Apples – use crisp, tart varieties like Granny Smith to balance sweetness and provide the perfect texture.
- Granulated sugar – just enough to enhance the natural apple flavors without overpowering.
- Ground cinnamon – the star spice that infuses warmth and aroma into the filling.
- Lemon juice – brightens the fruit flavors and prevents apples from browning.
- Cornstarch – helps thicken the juices for a luscious, not soggy, crisp.
For the Crisp Topping
- Old-fashioned rolled oats – add hearty texture and wholesome crunch.
- All-purpose flour – balances the oats and binds the topping ingredients.
- Brown sugar – lends a rich, caramel-like sweetness that complements the cinnamon apple crisp perfectly.
- Ground cinnamon – echoes the spice in the filling for consistent flavor.
- Salt – enhances all the sweet flavors while keeping the topping balanced.
- Cold unsalted butter – cut into small pieces and folded in to create a golden, crumbly topping.
This ingredient list ensures your Cinnamon Apple Crisp bursts with cozy, home-baked goodness every time!
How to Make Cinnamon Apple Crisp
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish for golden-brown edges before filling it with the apple mixture.
- Combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and cornstarch in a large bowl until the fruit is evenly coated.
- Fill the prepared dish with the apple mixture, spreading it into an even layer to ensure bubbling juices and uniform baking.
For the Crisp Topping:
- Mix old-fashioned oats, all-purpose flour, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and salt in a medium bowl until ingredients are fully combined.
- Cut cold, cubed butter into the oat mixture using a pastry cutter or fork until it resembles coarse, pea-sized crumbs.
- Top the apples evenly with the buttery crumble, gently pressing it down so every bite has a deliciously crunchy topping.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35–40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and thick, fragrant juices are bubbling through the apples.
Optional: Serve warm with vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Cinnamon Apple Crisp
- Choose the Right Apples: Use tart, firm apples like Granny Smith to prevent mushy filling and keep the crisp perfectly textured.
- Don’t Skip Lemon Juice: It keeps the apple slices vibrant and fresh, stopping browning and brightening flavors naturally.
- Cut Butter Cold: Cold butter creates a crumbly, flaky topping instead of melting into a greasy mess—key for that ideal crunch.
- Even Layering Matters: Spread apples and topping evenly to ensure uniform cooking and bubbling juices without soggy spots.
- Watch Baking Time: Bake until topping is golden and juices bubble—overbaking dries the crisp, underbaking leaves it undercooked.
- Serve Warm: Cinnamon Apple Crisp tastes best warm, ideally paired with vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for cozy comfort.
Make Ahead Options
These Cinnamon Apple Crisp delights are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the apple filling by combining the sliced apples, sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and cornstarch up to 24 hours in advance; just keep it covered in the fridge to prevent browning. Additionally, you can make the crisp topping and store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, simply layer the apple mixture in the prepared dish, sprinkle with the crisp topping, and pop it in the oven. You’ll enjoy a fresh, warm dessert with minimal effort—just as delicious as if you made it all at once!
Cinnamon Apple Crisp Variations
Feel free to add your own twist to this classic recipe, elevating it to new heights with these delightful suggestions!
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Nutty Crunch: Add 1/2 cup chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the crisp topping for extra texture and a wholesome boost.
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend, and enjoy the same delicious flavors with a gluten-free twist.
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Extra Spice: Boost flavor by adding a 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg or a dash of ginger to the apple filling for a warm and fragrant twist.
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Maple Sweetener: Replace granulated sugar with maple syrup in the apple filling for a deeper, caramel-like sweetness that perfectly complements the apples.
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Fruit Medley: Mix in other fruits like pears or berries to diversify the flavors and create a delightful fruit combination bursting with freshness.
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Coconut Topping: Incorporate 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut into the crisp topping for a tropical twist that adds chewiness and flavor.
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Savory Kick: Introduce 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper to the topping to provide a subtle heat that contrasts beautifully with the sweet apples.
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Vegan Option: Use coconut oil instead of butter and maple syrup instead of granulated sugar for a plant-based version that retains the heartwarming flavors.
Each variation offers a fun opportunity to reimagine this beloved dessert while keeping the essence of a cozy autumn experience!
What to Serve with Cinnamon Apple Crisp?
As the aroma of baked apples and cinnamon fills your kitchen, elevate your meal by pairing it with delightful accompaniments.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Nothing compares to a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream melting over warm crisp, creating a luxurious contrast.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzling homemade or store-bought caramel adds an indulgent sweetness that complements the warm spices beautifully.
- Crumbly Shortbread Cookies: The buttery texture of shortbread balances the soft filling and crunchy topping, perfect for dipping or enjoying alongside.
For beverages, consider serving it with:
- Chai Tea: The warming spices in chai mirror those in the crisp, creating a cozy pairing that’s perfect for chilly days.
- Sparkling Cider: The effervescence cuts through the richness of the dessert, making each bite feel light and refreshing.
Lastly, why not finish off with:
- Fresh Whipped Cream: A light, airy dollop on top adds a creamy finish, enhancing the dessert’s flavors while making it even more inviting.
- Nutty Granola: For an interesting twist, sprinkle some crunchy granola on top for added texture and a nutty flavor that ties everything together.
Each pairing will enhance your experience with the Cinnamon Apple Crisp, ensuring that cozy meal feels even more special!
How to Store and Freeze Cinnamon Apple Crisp
Room Temperature: Store leftover cinnamon apple crisp at room temperature for up to 2 days, covered loosely with foil to keep the topping crisp while preventing it from getting too dry.
Fridge: If you’re keeping it longer, refrigerate cinnamon apple crisp for up to 5 days in an airtight container. This helps maintain the flavors while protecting it from drying out.
Freezer: To freeze, wrap the cooled cinnamon apple crisp tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, storing it for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Warm individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire crisp in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, ensuring it’s heated through and ready to delight again!
Cinnamon Apple Crisp Recipe FAQs
What type of apples work best for Cinnamon Apple Crisp?
I recommend tart and firm apples like Granny Smith — they hold their shape and provide a balanced, tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with cinnamon. Avoid overly sweet or soft apples, which can turn mushy while baking.
How long can I store leftover cinnamon apple crisp in the fridge?
You can safely store your leftover crisp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This keeps the flavors fresh while preventing the topping from getting soggy. Just reheat before serving to enjoy that cozy, warm texture again!
Can I freeze Cinnamon Apple Crisp, and if so, how do I do it?
Absolutely! First, let the crisp cool completely. Then wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and cover with aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a 350°F oven for 15–20 minutes until bubbly and warm.
What if my topping isn’t crispy after baking?
If your topping turns out soggy, it often means the butter melted too much or the apples released excess juices. Make sure your butter is cold when mixing and press the topping evenly but not too compact. Also, check your oven temperature—it should be steady at 350°F to get that golden crunch.
Is Cinnamon Apple Crisp safe for pets or people with certain allergies?
While the ingredients are generally safe for human consumption, cinnamon and apples can be problematic for some pets, especially cats and dogs, so it’s best not to share. Also, people with gluten intolerance should swap all-purpose flour in the topping for a gluten-free alternative to keep the crisp enjoyable for everyone!
Easy Cinnamon Apple Crisp to Satisfy Your Cozy Fall Cravings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish.
- Combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and cornstarch in a large bowl until the fruit is evenly coated.
- Fill the prepared dish with the apple mixture, spreading it into an even layer.
- Mix old-fashioned oats, all-purpose flour, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and salt in a medium bowl.
- Cut cold, cubed butter into the oat mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Top the apples evenly with the buttery crumble, gently pressing it down.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35–40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and juices are bubbling.
