Few desserts evoke the warmth and comfort of home quite like Grandma’s Apple Crisp. This classic treat combines tender, cinnamon-spiced apples with a buttery, crunchy oat topping for a dessert that’s as heartwarming as it is delicious. Perfect for fall gatherings, holiday dinners, or anytime you’re craving a taste of nostalgia, this apple crisp is an easy-to-make dish that never goes out of style.
Ingredients:
For the Filling:
6 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best), peeled, cored, and sliced
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon lemon juice
For the Topping:
1 cup rolled oats
3/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
Instructions:
Prepare the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Make the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, toss the sliced apples with granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and lemon juice. Spread the apple mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
Prepare the Topping: In another bowl, combine oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter (or your fingers) to create a crumbly mixture.
Assemble the Crisp: Sprinkle the topping evenly over the apples.
Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are bubbling.
Serve: Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm, topped with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream if desired.
Serving Tips:
Serve Warm: For the ultimate comforting experience, serve your apple crisp warm straight out of the oven. The buttery, crispy topping and tender apples are best enjoyed when fresh and hot.
Add Ice Cream or Whipped Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream elevates the flavor and adds a creamy contrast to the warm, spiced apples.
Pair with Coffee or Tea: Grandma’s Apple Crisp pairs beautifully with a cup of hot coffee, cinnamon tea, or apple cider for a cozy treat.
Perfect for Holidays: Serve it as a delicious dessert at Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any family gathering. It’s always a crowd-pleaser!
Storage Tips:
Refrigeration: Store any leftover apple crisp in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep fresh for up to 4 days. Simply reheat in the oven or microwave before serving for the best taste and texture.
Freezing: For longer storage, apple crisp can be frozen! Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing it in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then warm it in the oven until heated through.
Freezing Before Baking: You can also freeze the assembled, unbaked crisp. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, remove it from the freezer and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Single Serving: If you prefer single servings, divide the apple crisp into individual portions and store them in small containers for easy grab-and-go treats.
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FAQs:
Can I use different types of apples?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples are great choices due to their balance of sweetness and tartness, you can use other varieties like Fuji, Pink Lady, or Golden Delicious. Mixing apple types can also add complexity to the flavor.
How do I prevent the topping from becoming soggy?
The key to a crispy topping is ensuring the butter stays cold when mixing with the dry ingredients. Also, bake the apple crisp uncovered so the topping has a chance to brown and crisp up properly.
Can I make this apple crisp gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Ensure your oats are certified gluten-free, as some brands may have cross-contamination with gluten.