If you're on the hunt for a comforting dessert that brings the flavors of fall right to your table, look no further than this Maple Apple Crisp. With its deliciously tender apples and crunchy oat topping, this dish captures the essence of autumn in every bite.
Let's break down what makes this recipe shine. The star here is, of course, the apples. Choose a mix of tart and sweet varieties like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp for complex flavors. The pure maple syrup adds a rich sweetness, perfectly complementing the apples without overwhelming them. All-purpose flour and rolled oats create the crisp's delightful crumbly topping. Brown sugar contributes a deep, molasses-like sweetness that enhances the overall taste. The unsalted butter ensures the topping is rich and holds together well. For spices, ground cinnamon and nutmeg add warmth and depth, while a pinch of salt balances the flavors. Lastly, a splash of lemon juice keeps the apples bright and prevents browning.
Maple Apple Crisp is fantastic on its own but truly shines with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a cozy breakfast treat, serve it with a side of Greek yogurt and a drizzle of extra maple syrup.
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it's ready to go once you've assembled everything. In a large bowl, combine your sliced apples with the maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Use a wooden spoon or your hands to mix them until the apples are well-coated and glistening with the syrupy mixture.
Next, transfer the apple mixture into a 9x13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. This allows for even baking and ensures each bite has a good mix of apples and topping.
In a separate bowl, it's time to make the crumbly topping. Mix together the flour, oats, brown sugar, and salt. Add the softened butter, and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to blend it in until you have a crumbly texture. Don't worry if it's not perfectly uniform; those lumps are what make the topping so delicious.
Sprinkle the oat topping evenly over the apples in your baking dish. It might seem like a lot, but trust me, it bakes down beautifully. Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. You'll know it's done when the top is golden brown and the apples are tender, filling your kitchen with a wonderful aroma.
Once baked, let the crisp cool slightly before serving. This helps the juices to settle and makes it easier to serve.
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