Now here is a classic dessert that warms the heart and satisfies the sweet tooth – Apple Crisp. This timeless treat brings together the goodness of juicy apples, warm spices, and a golden, crunchy topping that will transport you to a cozy autumn day.
Apple crisp is very similar to apple crumble. But the topping for apple crumble is more of a classic streusel made of flour, butter, and sugar, while the topping for this recipe includes oats.
The Origins of Apple Crisp
We can trace the roots of apple crisp back to early American settlers, who ingeniously crafted simple dishes with the readily available ingredients. Abundant fall apples became a staple, and from this, the dish, originally known as “apple slump” emerged.
By the 20th century, the concept of baking spiced apples with a crumbly topping gained popularity, establishing the term “apple crisp”. However, the dish has undergone various transformations over the years. Apple crisp, in its essence, has become a celebration of seasonal bounty; an ode to the orchards that adorned the landscape during the fall harvest. The dish captures the spirit of togetherness and appreciation for nature’s gifts.
Why We Love This Dish
Versatility: Above all, this apple crisp recipe is versatile. Use your favorite apple varieties or mix them for a unique flavor profile.
Simplicity: With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps; this dessert is perfect for both beginners and experienced bakers.
Aromas of Comfort: The warm spices combined with the aroma of baked apples will fill your kitchen with a comforting fragrance that spells pure bliss.
Texture Contrast: The contrast between the tender, spiced apples and the crisp, buttery topping creates a symphony of textures in every bite.
About Our Ingredients:
Apples: Tart apples like Granny Smith or Pink Lady are the most popular since they help offset the sweetness of the filling and the topping, but any type of apple can be used.
Spices: I’m using a combination of cinnamon and some freshly grated nutmeg.
Oats: You’ll need old fashioned oats for your crispy topping. Instant oats won’t retain their texture once baked.
Butter: Make sure your butter is very cold. I’m using unsalted butter.
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Apple Crisp
Ingredients
Apple Mixture
- 2 ½ pounds granny or honey apples peeled, cored, and sliced
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- ⅓ cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon grated nutmeg
- 8 tbsp unsalted butter cut into small cube
Topping
- 1¼ cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup cold unsalted butter cut into small cubes
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350F degrees. Butter an 8×8 baking dish, or spray with non-stick cooking spray. Set aside.
- Peel, core, and cut the apples into ½-inch thick slices.
- In a large bowl, stir to combine sliced apples, 1/3 cup brown sugar, 1/2 tsp cinnamon, nutmeg, 1 tbsp flour, 8 tbsp cold cubed butter, and lemon juice.
- Set your apples aside.
- To make your topping, in a food processor, combine your old-fashioned rolled oats, ¾ cup all-purpose flour, ½ cup packed light brown sugar, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¾ cup cold unsalted butter cut into small cubes.
- Pulse on low until small bits form.
- Top your apple mixture with your crumble.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes or until your apple are tender and topping is golden.
