Dessert

The Ultimate Apple Crisp Recipe

ByLily Monroe October 22, 2025October 22, 2025

Introduction

Apple crisp is a classic dessert that combines tender, spiced apples with a buttery, oat topping. This ultimate apple crisp recipe is easy to prepare and perfect for cozy gatherings or a comforting treat any time of year.

The image shows a slice of apple crumble on a white plate with a white marbled background. The dessert has two main layers: the bottom layer is soft, cooked apple slices with a golden-brown syrupy texture that looks juicy and warm, and the top layer is a thick, crumbly topping made of oats and sugar that is golden and crunchy. On top of the crumble, there is a dollop of white cream with smooth texture, drizzled with light brown caramel sauce running down the sides. The background includes whole and sliced green apples slightly out of focus, adding a fresh touch to the scene. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

8 apples, peeled, cored, and chopped
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
1 cup old-fashioned oats
1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, diced into small cubes
Pinch of salt

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray or softened butter. Set aside.
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the chopped apples, 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1/4 cup flour, 2 teaspoons cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg. Toss until apples are evenly coated. Transfer this mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
Step 3: In a separate bowl, mix together the oats, 1/4 cup flour, 1/2 cup brown sugar, cold diced butter, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Use a fork or pastry cutter to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with butter evenly distributed.
Step 4: Sprinkle the topping evenly over the apple filling. Gently press down with a spatula or spoon to even out the topping.
Step 5: Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbling around the edges.
Step 6: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm, optionally with vanilla ice cream.

Tips & Variations

Try mixing different apple varieties like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp for a balance of tartness and sweetness.
For added crunch, sprinkle chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts into the topping.
Use maple syrup or honey instead of brown sugar for a different flavor profile.
For a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend.

Storage

Store leftover apple crisp covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire dish in a 350°F (180°C) oven until heated through to restore crispness.

How to Serve

A glass baking dish holds a three-layer dessert with a crumbly, golden-brown topping that looks crunchy and textured. The top layer is thick with small oats and crumbs, spread evenly over a middle layer of soft, yellow apple slices that are visible where a piece has been cut out. Below the apples, a shiny caramel sauce pools slightly at the bottom, showing a sticky texture. In the background, a yellow apple (whole and sliced) sits on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen apples for this recipe?

Yes, frozen apples can be used, but be sure to thaw and drain excess liquid before combining with the other filling ingredients to prevent a soggy crisp.

How do I know when the apple crisp is done?

The topping should be golden brown and the filling bubbly around the edges. If the topping browns too quickly, you can cover it loosely with foil and continue baking until the filling is cooked through.