Classic Apple Crisp Recipe

Apple crisp is one of those desserts that never goes out of style. It’s cozy, simple to make, and always a hit. The combination of tender, spiced apples and a buttery, golden crumble topping creates a dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious. Let’s walk through each step so you can bring this classic dessert to life in your kitchen.

Ingredients

The magic of apple crisp comes from its simplicity. With a few pantry staples and fresh apples, you’re well on your way to dessert perfection. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Filling:

• 6 medium apples (Granny Smith work beautifully), peeled, cored, and sliced
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1/3 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

For the Topping:

• 1 cup rolled oats
• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
• A pinch of salt

Instructions

Preheat the Oven
The first step is setting the stage for success. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). A consistent oven temperature ensures both the apples and the topping bake evenly. Lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

Prepare the Apple Filling
The filling is the heart of this recipe, so take your time to get it just right. Peel, core, and slice your apples into thin, even pieces. This helps them bake evenly and ensures every bite is tender.

In a large bowl, toss the apple slices with lemon juice, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and flour. The lemon juice keeps the apples fresh and adds a hint of brightness, while the flour helps thicken the juices as the apples bake. Once everything is evenly coated, spread the apple mixture into your prepared baking dish.

Make the Crumble Topping
The crumble topping is what takes this dessert from good to unforgettable. In a medium bowl, mix together the oats, flour, brown sugar, melted butter, and a pinch of salt. Use a fork or your hands to blend the ingredients until the mixture is crumbly and holds together when gently pressed. This buttery, crunchy topping is what makes every bite irresistible.

Assemble the Crisp
Evenly sprinkle the crumble topping over the apple mixture. Make sure to cover all the apples—this is the golden crown of the dish, and no one wants to miss out on the crunch!

Bake the Crisp
Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the topping is golden brown and the apple filling is bubbling around the edges. The aroma of cinnamon and caramelized sugar will fill your kitchen, making the wait almost unbearable.

Cool and Serve
Once baked, let the apple crisp cool for about 10 minutes. This allows the juices to settle and makes it easier to serve. Dish it up warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for the ultimate comfort dessert.

Servings and Serving Size

This recipe serves 6 and pairs beautifully with a side of creamy vanilla ice cream. Each serving is a generous helping of warm, spiced apple filling with a crispy, buttery topping. Enjoy!