Name: Apple Crisp
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 to 8 apples (peeled, cored, and sliced); 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 3/4 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/3 cup old-fashioned rolled oats; 1/2 cup light brown sugar (firmly packed); 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter (cut into small pieces)

Why You’ll Love Apple Crisp Recipe

The contrast of soft baked apples and crunchy oat topping is irresistibly comforting.
It’s straightforward and satisfying, making it a great choice for both weeknight dessert and special gatherings.
You can tailor the apple varieties to suit your taste—tarter, sweeter, or a mix for balance.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the topping:

all‑purpose flour
light brown sugar
salt
unsalted butter (cold, cut into small pieces)
quick‑cooking or rolled oats

For the filling:

apples (about 5 to 6 large apples)
lemon juice
light brown sugar
ground cinnamon

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350 °F (about 175 °C). Butter a 2‑quart baking dish or six to eight 1‑ to 2‑cup baking dishes.
In a mixing bowl or food processor, combine the flour, brown sugar, salt and cold butter. Work the butter in (either by hand or pulsing) until the mixture clumps together.
Add the oats to the crumb mixture and mix or pulse until blended. Set aside.
Peel, core and slice the apples (or partially chop for varied texture).
In a bowl, toss the apple slices with lemon juice to prevent browning.
Add the brown sugar and cinnamon to the apples and toss to combine.
Transfer the apple mixture into the prepared baking dish(es).
Evenly top the apple mixture with the crumb topping.
Bake for 40 to 50 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the topping is browned and crisp.
(Optional) If apples aren’t as soft as you’d like, you can cover the top loosely with foil after browning and bake another 10 minutes.

Servings and timing

Serves: 6 to 8.
Prep time: ~20 minutes.
Cook time: ~45 minutes.
Total time: ~65 minutes.

Variations

Skip peeling the apples for added texture and less prep.
Make it vegan by using a plant‑based butter substitute instead of butter.
Make it gluten‑free by swapping the flour for a gluten‑free blend.
Substitute some apples for pears for a slightly different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

Once cooled, store leftover apple crisp covered in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or enjoy it at room temperature.

FAQs

What kind of apples should I use?

You can use firm baking apples. For a tarter result, go with apples like Granny Smith. For a sweeter result, try Braeburn, Fuji or Pink Lady. You can also use a mix of varieties.

Does a “crisp” differ from a “crumble”?

Yes — generally a crisp’s topping includes oats, making it crunchier, whereas a crumble often uses only flour, sugar and butter without oats.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes — you can assemble the apples and crumb topping ahead, refrigerate, then bake when ready.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes — you can double the ingredients and bake in a larger dish, adjusting bake time as needed for the depth of filling.

What’s the best way to serve it?

Serve warm, straight from the oven. It’s also excellent with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

Why is my topping soggy instead of crisp?

Possible reasons: topping may have too much moisture or not enough butter/oats; it may have been mixed into the apples rather than sprinkled on top; or baking time may not have been sufficient to crisp the topping and thicken the juices.

Can I freeze apple crisp?

Yes — you can freeze it after baking. Wrap it tightly and freeze. Thaw in the fridge and reheat in the oven until warmed through and crisped up again.

Can I use canned or frozen apples instead of fresh?

You could, but fresh firm apples give the best texture. Canned/frozen may release more liquid and result in a softer base beneath the topping.

Can I add nuts or dried fruit to the topping?

Absolutely — chopped pecans, walnuts or dried cranberries would add both flavor and texture.

Is this dessert suitable for breakfast or brunch?

Yes — it works well as a casual brunch treat or even warmed with yogurt for a breakfast twist.

Conclusion

This apple crisp delivers timeless comfort with simplicity and delicious results. With tender baked apples, cinnamon warmth and a crunchy oat‑butter topping, it’s the kind of dessert you’ll be glad you made. Try it for your next cozy gathering or anytime you’re craving something homey and sweet.