Autumn is the perfect time to enjoy the classic, comforting flavors of apples and spices. This Autumnal Apple Crisp Delight combines tart apples with a crunchy, buttery topping, making it an irresistible treat for the cooler months.
Granny Smith apples are the stars here, bringing a tartness that complements the sweet topping. Apple cider adds an extra layer of apple flavor and moisture. The flour and rolled oats work together to create a hearty, crumbly topping. Brown sugar and granulated sugar provide sweetness and help the topping caramelize. Cinnamon and nutmeg add warm, autumnal spice notes. Butter binds the topping and gives it richness. Pecans add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor. Finally, a pinch of salt enhances all the flavors.
This apple crisp is delightful on its own, but for an extra treat, serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The cold creaminess pairs beautifully with the warm crisp.
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the crisp cooks evenly and the topping gets nice and golden. While the oven is warming up, take a large bowl and toss your sliced apples with the apple cider. This little bath keeps the apples from browning and infuses them with extra flavor.
Next, in another bowl, combine your dry ingredients: flour, oats, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix them until they’re well combined. Now, it’s time to get your hands a little messy! Add the chilled, diced butter into the dry mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, work the butter into the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. This step is key for that crumbly topping we all love.
Once your crumble is ready, stir in the chopped pecans. These will add that wonderful texture and flavor to the topping. Now, take your prepared apples and spread them evenly in a 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the oat mixture evenly over the apples. Make sure you cover the apples well so each bite has that scrumptious topping.
Pop the dish in your preheated oven and let it bake for 40-45 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the topping is a beautiful golden brown and the apples are tender. Let it cool slightly before serving. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!