This Easy Apple Crisp Recipe is the perfect dessert for fall gatherings or cozy nights at home. It’s a delightful combination of tender apples, warm spices, and a crunchy oat topping that everyone will love. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or enjoying a quiet evening, this apple crisp is bound to impress and satisfy your sweet tooth.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Preparation: This recipe requires minimal effort and common ingredients, making it easy for both novice and experienced bakers.
- Delicious Flavor: The blend of Granny Smith apples, cinnamon, and brown sugar creates a comforting flavor that’s hard to resist.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it warm with vanilla ice cream or drizzle on some salted caramel for an extra special treat.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or just a regular weeknight dessert, this apple crisp fits right in.
- Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will fall in love with this classic dish that brings back memories of cozy autumn evenings.
Tools and Preparation
To make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 8×8 inch baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Oven mitts
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking Dish: A good-quality baking dish ensures even cooking and makes serving easier.
- Mixing Bowls: Using different sizes helps in organizing your ingredients efficiently.
- Whisk: This tool allows for quick mixing without lumps, especially important when preparing your topping.
Ingredients
This apple crisp is a must every fall! Definitely a family favorite. It’s brimming with fresh juicy apples, it has the perfect amount of cinnamon sweetness, and that crisp buttery oat topping is what dreams are made of!
For the Crisp Topping
- 1/2 cup (70g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup old fashioned oats
- 1/2 cup (110g) packed light-brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/3 cup (76g) unsalted butter (cold, diced into small cubes)
For the Apple Filling
- 2 lbs Granny Smith apples (peeled, cored and sliced thin)
- 3 Tbsp (42g) unsalted butter (melted)
- 2 Tbsp all-purpose flour
- 3 Tbsp water
- 1 Tbsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup (55g) light-brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 pinch salt
How to Make Easy Apple Crisp Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Position the oven rack one level below the center. Butter an 8 by 8 inch baking dish or a similar size casserole dish; set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Crisp Topping
In a mixing bowl, whisk together:
1. 1/2 cup flour
2. Old fashioned oats
3. Light-brown sugar
4. Baking powder
5. Ground cinnamon
6. Salt
Whisk this mixture for about 30 seconds until well combined.
Step 3: Make Crumbles
Add the cold diced butter to the dry mixture. Using clean fingertips, rub the butter into the dry ingredients until small crumbles form. Transfer this mixture to the refrigerator while you prepare the filling.
Step 4: Prepare the Apple Filling
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together:
1. Melted butter
2. Flour
Once blended, mix in:
– Water
– Lemon juice
– Vanilla extract
Then stir in:
– Brown sugar
– Ground cinnamon
– Pinch of salt
Step 5: Combine Apples with Mixture
Place sliced apples in a large bowl. Pour the butter mixture over them and toss gently to coat evenly. Transfer this apple mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it into an even layer.
Step 6: Add Topping
Remove the topping from the refrigerator and sprinkle it evenly as crumbles over the apples.
Step 7: Bake Your Apple Crisp
Bake in your preheated oven until the top is golden brown and apples are tender when pierced with a toothpick—approximately 35 minutes.
Step 8: Serve Your Delicious Dessert
Remove from oven and allow to rest for about 10 minutes before serving warm. Enjoy with vanilla ice cream or salted caramel sauce if desired!
How to Serve Easy Apple Crisp Recipe
Serving your Easy Apple Crisp is just as important as making it. This warm dessert is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways, enhancing its flavor and appeal.
With Ice Cream
- Vanilla Ice Cream – A classic choice that pairs beautifully with warm apple crisp.
- Cinnamon Ice Cream – Adds an extra layer of spice that complements the apples.
Drizzled with Sauce
- Salted Caramel Sauce – The sweet and salty combination takes this dessert to the next level.
- Maple Syrup – Offers a natural sweetness that enhances the apple flavors.
Topped with Whipped Cream
- Fresh Whipped Cream – Light and fluffy, it balances the richness of the crisp topping.
- Flavored Whipped Cream – Consider vanilla or cinnamon-infused whipped cream for added flavor.
Served Warm or Cold
- Warm – Best straight from the oven for that cozy feeling.
- Cold – Refrigerate leftovers for a refreshing take on apple crisp.

How to Perfect Easy Apple Crisp Recipe
Perfecting your Easy Apple Crisp involves small tweaks for big flavor. Follow these tips to elevate your dish.
- Use Fresh Apples – Fresh, crisp apples will provide the best texture and flavor. Granny Smith apples are highly recommended for their tartness.
- Adjust Sweetness – Taste your apple filling before baking; add more sugar if you prefer a sweeter dessert.
- Ensure Crumble Texture – When mixing the topping, avoid overworking the butter; you want small crumbles for that perfect crunch.
- Experiment with Spices – Feel free to add nutmeg or allspice to enhance the warmth and depth of flavor in your crisp.
- Let It Rest – Allowing the crisp to rest after baking helps it set, making it easier to serve without falling apart.
- Serve Warm – Always serve warm for the best experience, especially when paired with ice cream.
Best Side Dishes for Easy Apple Crisp Recipe
Pairing side dishes with your Easy Apple Crisp can create a balanced meal. Here are some great options to consider.
- Cheese Platter – A selection of cheeses like sharp cheddar or creamy brie adds a savory contrast.
- Mixed Green Salad – A light salad with vinaigrette provides freshness alongside the rich dessert.
- Roasted Nuts – Almonds or pecans offer a crunchy texture that complements soft apple crisp.
- Caramelized Brussels Sprouts – The slight bitterness balances the sweetness of the apple dish nicely.
- Pumpkin Soup – A warm soup adds seasonal flavors that harmonize well with fall desserts.
- Baked Sweet Potatoes – Their natural sweetness pairs well and rounds out a wholesome meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making an Easy Apple Crisp Recipe, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the outcome. Here are some mistakes to steer clear of:
- Using the wrong apples – Opt for tart apples like Granny Smith. Sweet varieties may turn mushy and lack flavor.
- Overmixing the topping – Mix just until combined; overworking can make it tough instead of crumbly.
- Skipping the chilling step – Chilling the topping helps achieve a crispier texture. Don’t skip this for the best results!
- Not adjusting sugar levels – Depending on your apple’s sweetness, adjust added sugars to balance flavors perfectly.
- Baking at too high a temperature – Stick to 375°F for even cooking; higher heat can burn the topping before apples soften.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- It will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Easy Apple Crisp Recipe
- Allow it to cool completely before freezing.
- Use a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
- Freezes well for up to 3 months.
Reheating Easy Apple Crisp Recipe
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warm.
- Microwave – Heat individual servings on high for 30-60 seconds, checking frequently.
- Stovetop – Place in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making an Easy Apple Crisp Recipe:
How do I make my Easy Apple Crisp Recipe gluten-free?
You can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour. Just ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Can I use different types of apples in my Easy Apple Crisp Recipe?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith is ideal, you can mix in Honeycrisp or Fuji apples for added sweetness and flavor.
How do I enhance the flavor of my Easy Apple Crisp Recipe?
Adding a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of bourbon can elevate the taste. Experiment with spices according to your preference!
What ice cream pairs well with Easy Apple Crisp Recipe?
Vanilla ice cream is classic, but caramel swirl or cinnamon ice cream enhances the cozy flavors beautifully.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Apple Crisp Recipe is a delightful dessert that every family will love. Its warm, comforting flavors make it perfect for fall gatherings or cozy nights at home. Feel free to customize it by adding nuts or dried fruits to suit your taste!
Easy Apple Crisp Recipe
Indulge in the warmth of this Easy Apple Crisp Recipe, a classic dessert that captures the essence of fall with its tender apples, aromatic spices, and a buttery oat topping. Perfect for cozy family dinners or festive gatherings, this dish is sure to impress both guests and loved ones alike. The combination of tart Granny Smith apples and rich brown sugar creates a delightful balance of flavors that will satisfy your sweet cravings. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or drizzle it with salted caramel for an elevated treat. Simple to prepare yet incredibly delicious, this apple crisp is destined to become a family favorite!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 lbs Granny Smith apples
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup old-fashioned oats
- 1/2 cup light-brown sugar
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter (cold)
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- Lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F and butter an 8×8 inch baking dish.
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, oats, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
- Cut in cold butter until small crumbles form; refrigerate topping mixture.
- In another bowl, mix melted butter with flour, water, lemon juice, vanilla extract, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
- Toss sliced apples with the mixture; spread evenly in the baking dish.
- Sprinkle the crumble topping over the apples.
- Bake for about 35 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.
- Let cool for 10 minutes before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8 of recipe (approximately 165g)
- Calories: 270
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 25mg








