Nothing says comfort like the warm, spiced aroma of an Old Fashioned Easy Apple Crisp baking in the oven. This classic dessert combines tender, cinnamon-spiced apples with a buttery, crumbly oat topping. Whether you’re enjoying it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, this dish is perfect for any occasion.
For a delightful pairing, consider exploring the Homemade Dutch Apple Pie, another comforting apple-based dessert perfect for fall gatherings or cozy evenings.
For another apple-centric delight, pair this crisp with the Homemade Dutch Apple Pie, a dessert that marries flaky crust, caramelized apples, and a streusel topping for those cozy evenings or festive gatherings.
Why You’ll Love Old Fashioned Easy Apple Crisp
If you’re craving a warm, comforting dessert that’s simple to make, this Easy Apple Crisp is the perfect choice! With just a few pantry staples, minimal prep time, and a delightful blend of spiced apples and crunchy topping, this recipe is a go-to for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Apple Crisp:
✔ Simple Ingredients: Everything you need is likely already in your kitchen.
✔ Quick & Easy: No special equipment or complicated steps—just mix, bake, and enjoy!
✔ Irresistible Flavor: The warm spiced apples paired with a crispy, buttery topping make this dessert unforgettable.
Ingredients for Old Fashioned Easy Apple Crisp
For the Filling:
- 6 medium apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Topping:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Step-by-Step for Old Fashioned Easy Apple Crisp
1. Prepare the Apples
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced apples with granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Toss until evenly coated.
2. Make the Topping
- In a separate bowl, mix the oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir in the melted butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Assemble the Crisp
- Spread the apple mixture evenly in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle the oat topping evenly over the apples.
4. Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40–45 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are tender.
5. Serve
- Allow to cool slightly before serving. Top with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for extra indulgence.
Tips for Perfect Results for Old Fashioned Easy Apple Crisp
1. Choose the Right Apples
- Use a mix of tart and sweet apples for a more complex flavor. Try Granny Smith (tart) with Honeycrisp or Fuji (sweet).
- Avoid apples that become too soft, like Red Delicious, as they can turn mushy.
2. Perfect Your Crisp Topping
- Use cold butter and cut it into the dry ingredients with a pastry cutter or fork for the crispiest texture.
- Substitute half of the flour with oats for extra chewiness.
- For a richer flavor, brown butter before mixing it into the topping.
3. Add Some Nuts
- Toasted pecans, walnuts, or almonds add depth and crunch. Toast them in a dry skillet before adding to intensify the flavor.
- If you prefer a nut-free version, try shredded coconut or sunflower seeds.
4. Play with Spices
- Besides cinnamon, try adding nutmeg, allspice, cloves, or cardamom for a warm, cozy flavor.
- A splash of vanilla extract or maple syrup enhances the richness.
5. Prevent a Soggy Crisp
- Toss apple slices with a little cornstarch to thicken the juices.
- Bake uncovered to ensure the topping stays crunchy.
- If the topping browns too quickly, loosely cover with foil halfway through baking.
6. Make It Extra Special
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of salted caramel sauce.
- For a healthier twist, swap sugar for maple syrup or honey and use whole wheat flour in the topping.
Bonus Tip: Try Another Seasonal Favorite!
If you love warm, spiced desserts, check out Layered Pumpkin Dessert—it’s the perfect cozy treat for fall!
If you’re a fan of warm, spiced desserts, be sure to check out the Layered Pumpkin Dessert for another seasonal favorite.
FAQs for Old Fashioned Easy Apple Crisp
What’s the Best Way to Store Old Fashioned Easy Apple Crisp?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes to revive the crisp topping. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the topping soggy.
Can I Use Instant Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
Yes, instant oats (quick oats) will work, but the topping will lose some crunch and become softer. Rolled oats (old-fashioned oats) are recommended for their sturdy texture and classic crispiness.
Is It Possible to Make Apple Crisp Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! Replace the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and use certified gluten-free oats. Double-check that other ingredients (like spices or butter) are gluten-free if dietary needs are strict.
Conclusion
Old Fashioned Easy Apple Crisp is more than just a dessert—it’s a nostalgic journey back to simpler times when warm, homemade treats brought families together. With its perfect balance of tender, spiced apples and a buttery, crumbly topping, this recipe is a true celebration of comforting flavors and textures.
Whether you’re serving it fresh from the oven at a holiday gathering or enjoying it on a quiet evening with a cozy cup of tea, this dish delivers satisfaction in every bite. The versatility of this recipe also allows you to customize it with your favorite spices, nuts, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce for added decadence.
For those who love experimenting with desserts, pair this classic apple crisp with other autumn-inspired recipes like the Layered Pumpkin Dessert or the Homemade Dutch Apple Pie. These dishes not only complement the crisp but also add variety to your dessert repertoire.
So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and embrace the joy of creating a dessert that will fill your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of baked apples and spices. It’s a recipe you’ll cherish and share, time after time.