Name: Apple Oatmeal Crisp
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 10 cups all-purpose apples, peeled, cored and sliced; 1 cup white sugar; 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; ½ cup water; 1 cup quick-cooking oats; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup packed brown sugar; ¼ teaspoon baking powder; ¼ teaspoon baking soda; ½ cup butter, melted

Why You’ll Love Apple Oatmeal Crisp Recipe

The combination of sweet, soft apples and a crisp, oat‑butter topping creates a wonderful texture contrast.
It’s straightforward and uses simple pantry ingredients you likely already have.
You can easily adjust the sweetness, spice level, or apple variety to match your taste.
It makes a generous batch (8 servings), so perfect for sharing.
The warm aroma of baked apples and cinnamon will fill your kitchen and set a cozy mood.

Ingredients

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

Brown sugar
Rolled oats
All‑purpose flour
Butter, melted
Apples, peeled, cored and chopped
White sugar
Ground cinnamon

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 8‑inch square baking pan.
In a large bowl, combine the brown sugar, oats, flour, and melted butter. Mix until crumbly.
Press half of the crumb mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan.
Spread the chopped apples evenly over the base layer.
Sprinkle the white sugar and ground cinnamon evenly over the apples.
Top with the remaining crumb mixture, spreading it out evenly.
Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the apples are bubbling.
Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

Serves: 8
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 40 to 45 minutes
Total time: about 1 hour

Variations

Use a mix of apple varieties like Granny Smith and Fuji for depth of flavor.
Add chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
Mix in dried fruits like raisins or cranberries to enhance the sweetness.
Swap some of the flour with whole-wheat or almond flour for a heartier texture.
Add spices like nutmeg, ginger, or allspice for a warmer spice profile.
Serve with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

Storage/Reheating

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
To reheat, warm individual servings in the microwave for 30–60 seconds.
Alternatively, reheat in a 325°F (160°C) oven for about 10 minutes.
If the topping softens, place under the broiler briefly to re-crisp.

FAQs

What apples work best for this apple oatmeal crisp?

Firm apples like Granny Smith, Fuji, and Honeycrisp are ideal as they hold their shape during baking and offer a nice balance of sweetness and tartness.

Can I use quicker oats or steel‑cut oats instead of rolled oats?

Rolled oats are best for the topping texture. Quick oats can be used in a pinch but result in a softer topping. Steel-cut oats are not recommended as they don’t soften properly.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes. You can prepare the crisp and refrigerate it unbaked for a few hours. Bake just before serving for the freshest texture.

How can I reduce the sweetness if I prefer less sugar?

Reduce the amount of brown and white sugar by 25–50%. Use tart apples like Granny Smith to balance the flavor naturally.

Can I freeze this crisp?

Yes, once baked and cooled, wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 2–3 months. Thaw in the fridge and reheat in the oven until warm.

What can I serve it with?

It pairs beautifully with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or caramel drizzle. It also makes a tasty addition to a brunch spread.

Is it gluten‑free or can I adapt it to be gluten‑free?

To make it gluten-free, use certified gluten-free oats and substitute the flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

Why did my topping sink into the apples?

If the apples release too much juice or the topping isn’t layered correctly, it can sink. Be sure to press half the crumb mixture into the bottom before adding apples and topping.

Can I double this recipe?

Absolutely. Use a 9×13‑inch baking dish and slightly increase the baking time until the topping is golden and the filling is bubbly.

How do I know when it’s done baking?

The top should be golden brown, and the apple filling should be bubbling around the edges — usually around 40 to 45 minutes.

Conclusion

Apple Oatmeal Crisp is a timeless dessert that’s equal parts easy and satisfying. The sweet, tender apples beneath a buttery oat topping offer a classic, homey flavor that’s welcome any time of year. Whether served warm with a scoop of ice cream or enjoyed cold the next day, this crisp never disappoints.

Best Apple Oatmeal Crisp