The Best Apple Crisp Recipe
Introduction
Apple crisp is a warm, comforting dessert that showcases the natural sweetness and tartness of fresh apples. Topped with a crispy, buttery oat crumble, it’s perfect for cozy evenings or special gatherings.

Ingredients
- 5 cups fresh apples, sliced
- 1/2 cup granulated white sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup old-fashioned oats
- 2/3 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) butter, melted
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish or pie plate.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, granulated sugar, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Toss gently until the apples are evenly coated.
- Step 3: Transfer the apple mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
- Step 4: In another bowl, mix the flour, oats, brown sugar, salt, and 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon. Stir in the melted butter until the mixture becomes crumbly.
- Step 5: Sprinkle the crumbly topping evenly over the apples.
- Step 6: Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are tender.
- Step 7: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm, optionally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Tips & Variations
- Use a mix of tart and sweet apples, like Granny Smith and Fuji, for more balanced flavor.
- Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the topping for extra crunch.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with almond flour or a gluten-free blend.
- Sprinkle a pinch of nutmeg or allspice into the apple mixture to enhance the warm spices.
Storage
Store leftover apple crisp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 30 seconds or warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until heated through.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen apples for this recipe?
Yes, but be sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before assembling the crisp to avoid a soggy topping.
How do I know when the apple crisp is done?
The topping should be golden brown and crispy, and the apples underneath should be soft and bubbling around the edges.
PrintThe Best Apple Crisp Recipe
This classic apple crisp recipe combines sweet, tender baked apples with a buttery, cinnamon-spiced oat topping that crisps up perfectly in the oven. It’s an easy, comforting dessert that highlights the natural flavors of fresh apples, making it perfect for any occasion or season.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Apple Filling
- 5 cups fresh apples, sliced
- 1/2 cup granulated white sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Crisp Topping
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup old fashioned oats
- 2/3 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) butter, melted
Instructions
- Prepare the Apples: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples with granulated sugar, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Toss until the apples are evenly coated with the mixture.
- Make the Crisp Topping: In a separate bowl, mix the all-purpose flour, oats, brown sugar, salt, and 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon. Pour the melted butter over the mixture and stir with a fork until the topping is crumbly and well combined.
- Assemble the Crisp: Spread the apple mixture evenly in a greased 8×8-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the oat topping evenly over the apples, covering them completely.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 40-45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the apple crisp from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy it warm, optionally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Notes
- Use tart apple varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for a balance of sweet and tangy flavors.
- You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this crisp gluten-free.
- To add extra texture and flavor, consider adding chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the topping.
- If you prefer a less sweet dessert, reduce the amount of sugar slightly or use a sugar substitute suitable for baking.
- This apple crisp can be reheated gently in the oven or microwave before serving.
Keywords: apple crisp, dessert, baked apples, cinnamon, oat topping, easy apple dessert

