There's something irresistibly comforting about an Old-Fashioned Apple Crisp. It's a timeless dessert perfect for autumn or whenever you crave a warm, sweet treat. This recipe brings together tender apples, a hint of spice, and a buttery crumb topping that will leave everyone wanting seconds.
The star of this dish is, of course, the apples. Choose a mix of tart and sweet varieties like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp for depth of flavor. The granulated sugar sweetens the apples, while cinnamon and nutmeg add warming spices that make the dish aromatic and flavorful. A splash of lemon juice not only prevents the apples from browning but also enhances their natural tartness. For the topping, all-purpose flour provides structure, while rolled oats add a satisfying chewiness. Brown sugar gives the topping a rich, molasses-like sweetness, and butter helps create that irresistible crumble. A pinch of salt rounds out the flavors.
This apple crisp is heavenly when served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. For a bit of extra indulgence, drizzle some caramel sauce over the top. If you're serving this for breakfast or brunch, try pairing it with a scoop of Greek yogurt for a balance of sweetness and tang.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures a steady temperature for baking. Grab a large bowl and toss in your thinly sliced apples. Add the granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Mix them gently but thoroughly until every apple slice is well-coated. This helps the flavors to meld together as they bake.
Next, spread the apple mixture evenly in a 9x13 inch baking dish. Make sure to distribute the apples in a single layer to ensure even cooking. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, oats, brown sugar, butter, and salt. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to mix until the mixture forms coarse crumbs. This topping will bake into a deliciously crispy layer.
Sprinkle the crumb mixture evenly over the apples, covering them completely. Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. You'll know it's done when the top is golden brown and the apples are tender when pierced with a fork. Allow it to cool slightly before serving, so the flavors have a chance to settle.