Get ready to embrace the cozy flavors of fall with this Old-Fashioned Oatmeal Apple Delight. It's a comforting dessert that combines the warmth of oats with the sweet-tartness of apples, making it perfect for those chilly days when you need something sweet and satisfying.
Apples: These are the stars of the show, providing natural sweetness and a juicy texture. Opt for firm varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best results.
Rolled oats: They add a hearty texture and nutty flavor to the topping. Skip the instant oats for this one to maintain the right consistency.
Brown sugar: Adds a rich sweetness and helps create a caramel-like flavor when baked.
All-purpose flour: Acts as a binder for the topping, giving it a nice crumbly texture.
Unsalted butter: Keeps the topping moist and deliciously buttery. Using unsalted lets you control the salt level.
Cinnamon and nutmeg: These spices provide warmth and depth, making the dish incredibly aromatic and flavorful.
Salt: Just a touch to enhance and balance the sweetness of the dish.
Vanilla extract: Elevates the flavor profile, adding a sweet aroma to the mix.
Lemon juice: Tossed with the apples to prevent browning and add a slight tartness, balancing the sweetness.
This dish pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. If you’re enjoying it for breakfast, consider a spoonful of Greek yogurt on the side for a creamy contrast.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This way, it'll be ready to go once your dish is prepped. While the oven is warming up, peel and slice your apples. Toss them in a large bowl with the lemon juice to keep them from turning brown.
In another bowl, combine the rolled oats, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. You want to ensure everything is mixed evenly. Now, grab your softened butter and cut it into the dry mixture. You can use a fork or a pastry cutter for this job. Keep at it until the mix becomes crumbly.
Stir the vanilla extract into your oat mixture. This little addition makes a big difference, giving the topping a warm, inviting aroma. Now, take your greased 9x9 inch baking dish and spread the apple slices evenly in it. You want them to be laid out in a single layer for even cooking.
Sprinkle the oat mixture over the apples. Make sure you cover them as evenly as possible so each bite has that delicious topping. Slide the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. You'll know it's done when the topping turns a lovely golden brown and the apples are nice and tender.
Let it cool slightly before serving. It's best enjoyed warm, when the topping is still crunchy, and the apples are soft and juicy.
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