This cranberry apple raisin crisp is a delightful dessert that captures the essence of fall. With a harmony of tart cranberries, sweet apples, and plump raisins, this treat is topped with a buttery, crunchy oat crumble. Perfect for any occasion, it's sure to please your taste buds.
Photos of Cranberry Apple Raisin Crisp Recipe
Some ingredients in this recipe might not be staples in every household. For instance, cranberries and orange zest may require a trip to the supermarket. Fresh cranberries can usually be found in the produce section, and you will need a fresh orange to zest. Make sure to check your pantry for ground cloves as well, as it's not a common spice in every kitchen.
Ingredients for Cranberry Apple Raisin Crisp
Old fashioned oats: Provides a hearty texture to the crisp topping.
Flour: Helps form the base of the crumb mixture.
Dark brown sugar: Adds a rich molasses flavor and sweetness to the topping.
Butter: Binds the crumb topping and adds a rich flavor.
Cranberries: Offers a tart, juicy contrast to the sweet elements.
Golden delicious apples: Adds sweetness and a tender texture to the fruit mixture.
Raisins: Provide a chewy, sweet burst in every bite.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the fruit mixture.
Orange zest: Adds a bright, citrusy flavor to the dish.
Orange juice: Enhances the citrus notes and moistens the fruit filling.
Ground cloves: Adds a warm, spicy depth to the flavor profile.
One reader, Edmon Andres says:
This cranberry apple raisin crisp recipe is a delightful treat! The combination of tart cranberries, sweet apples, and juicy raisins creates a perfect balance. The crumb topping adds a wonderful texture. It's easy to make and absolutely delicious. A must-try for any dessert lover!
Techniques for Making Cranberry Apple Raisin Crisp
How to rub butter into flour mixture: Use your fingertips to mix the cold butter into the flour mixture until it resembles small crumbs. This technique ensures the butter is evenly distributed, creating a crumbly texture.
How to zest an orange: Use a microplane or a fine grater to remove the outer layer of the orange peel, avoiding the bitter white pith underneath. This adds a burst of citrus flavor to the dish.
How to combine ingredients: Mix the specified ingredients in a bowl until they are evenly distributed. This ensures that the flavors are well-integrated throughout the dish.
How To Make Cranberry Apple Raisin Crisp
For this easy apple raisin crisp, the fruits are tossed with orange juice and spice, then topped with oat crumble for a wonderful mix of flavor and texture.
Serves:
Ingredients
- ½cupold fashioned oats
- ½cupflour,(plus 2 tbsp
- ½cupdark brown sugar
- 5½tbspcold butter
- 12ozcranberries,(1 pkg)
- 2golden delicious apples
- ½cupraisins
- ¾cupgranulated sugar
- 1zest of orange,grated
- ½cuporange juice,(from about 1 orange)
- ¼tspground cloves
Instructions
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Heat the oven to 375 degrees F.
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In a medium bowl, combine the oats, ½ cup flour, and brown sugar.
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Add the butter and rub it into that flour mixture until small crumbs form.
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In a large bowl, combine the cranberries, apples, raisins, granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons flour, orange zest and juice, and cloves.
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Transfer the fruit to an 8-inch square glass baking dish or a 2-quart soufflé dish.
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Top the fruit with the crumb mixture.
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Bake for about 45 minutes until the fruit is tender and the crumb topping has browned.
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Let cool for at least 15 minutes before serving.
Nutrition
- Calories: 619.72kcal
- Fat: 17.12g
- Saturated Fat: 10.20g
- Trans Fat: 0.64g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 4.36g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.97g
- Carbohydrates: 117.54g
- Fiber: 8.89g
- Sugar: 83.62g
- Protein: 4.83g
- Cholesterol: 41.98mg
- Sodium: 14.29mg
- Calcium: 65.48mg
- Potassium: 498.22mg
- Iron: 1.57mg
- Vitamin A: 145.38µg
- Vitamin C: 44.65mg
Helpful Technique for Preparing the Fruit Filling
When preparing the crumb mixture, make sure the butter is very cold. This helps create a crumbly texture rather than a greasy one. You can even cut the butter into small cubes and place it back in the fridge for a few minutes before incorporating it into the flour mixture.
Time-Saving Tips for This Recipe
Prepare ingredients in advance: Measure and chop all ingredients like cranberries, apples, and raisins ahead of time to streamline the process.
Use a food processor: Quickly combine the oats, flour, and brown sugar by pulsing them with the butter in a food processor.
Preheat the oven early: Start preheating your oven before you begin mixing to ensure it reaches the desired temperature by the time you're ready to bake.
Opt for pre-zested orange: Save time by using pre-zested orange or zesting the orange the night before.
Use a larger bowl: Mix the fruit and crumb mixture in a larger bowl to avoid spills and save cleanup time.
Substitute Ingredients For Cranberry Apple Raisin Crisp Recipe
old fashioned oats - Substitute with quick oats: Quick oats can be used as they have a similar texture and will cook faster.
flour - Substitute with almond flour: Almond flour can be used for a gluten-free option and adds a nutty flavor.
dark brown sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar has a similar sweetness and a slight caramel flavor.
cold butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used for a dairy-free option and adds a subtle coconut flavor.
cranberries - Substitute with dried cranberries: Dried cranberries can be used if fresh cranberries are not available, though they will be sweeter.
golden delicious apples - Substitute with granny smith apples: Granny Smith apples provide a tart flavor that balances the sweetness of the crisp.
raisins - Substitute with dried cherries: Dried cherries add a slightly tart and sweet flavor similar to raisins.
granulated sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can be used as a natural sweetener, though it will add a distinct flavor.
zest of orange - Substitute with zest of lemon: Lemon zest provides a similar citrusy aroma and flavor.
orange juice - Substitute with apple juice: Apple juice can be used for a milder flavor that complements the apples in the recipe.
ground cloves - Substitute with ground allspice: Ground allspice has a similar warm and spicy flavor profile.
Presenting Your Cranberry Apple Raisin Crisp
Use a shallow, wide dish: Opt for a shallow, wide dish instead of a deep one to ensure even baking and a beautiful presentation. This allows the cranberries, apples, and raisins to be seen through the crumb topping.
Create layers: Layer the fruit mixture and crumb topping in alternating thin layers. This adds visual interest and ensures every bite has a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Add a sprig of fresh mint or a few leaves of thyme on top of the crisp. The green color contrasts beautifully with the red and golden hues of the dessert.
Serve with a dollop of crème fraîche: Place a small dollop of crème fraîche or vanilla ice cream on the side. This adds a creamy element that complements the tartness of the cranberries and the sweetness of the apples.
Drizzle with a reduction: Drizzle a light orange juice reduction over the top. This enhances the citrus notes from the orange zest and adds a glossy finish.
Use a microplane for zest: Finely grate some additional orange zest over the top just before serving. This adds a fresh, aromatic touch and a pop of color.
Serve on a contrasting plate: Use a dark-colored plate to serve the crisp. The contrast will make the vibrant colors of the fruit and crumb topping stand out more.
Add a touch of powdered sugar: Lightly dust the top with powdered sugar for an elegant finish. This adds a touch of sweetness and a professional look.
Incorporate texture: Add a few toasted nuts like walnuts or pecans on top of the crisp. This adds a crunchy texture and a nutty flavor that complements the dish.
Serve with a side of spiced whipped cream: Whip some cream with a hint of ground cloves and cinnamon. Serve it on the side to enhance the spice profile of the crisp.
Essential Tools for Making a Fruit Crisp
Oven: Used to bake the crisp at a consistent temperature of 375 degrees F.
Medium bowl: Used to combine the oats, flour, and brown sugar.
Large bowl: Used to mix the cranberries, apples, raisins, granulated sugar, flour, orange zest, orange juice, and cloves.
Pastry cutter or fork: Used to rub the butter into the flour mixture until small crumbs form.
8-inch square glass baking dish: Used to hold the fruit mixture for baking.
2-quart soufflé dish: An alternative to the 8-inch square glass baking dish for holding the fruit mixture.
Measuring cups: Used to measure out the oats, flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and orange juice.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure out the ground cloves.
Zester: Used to zest the orange.
Knife: Used to peel, core, and chop the apples.
Cutting board: Used as a surface for preparing the apples.
Spatula or spoon: Used to transfer the fruit mixture to the baking dish.
Cooling rack: Used to cool the crisp for at least 15 minutes before serving.
Storing and Freezing Your Cranberry Apple Raisin Crisp
Allow the cranberry apple raisin crisp to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming and making the topping soggy.
To store the crisp in the refrigerator, cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It will keep well for up to 4 days in the fridge.
For longer storage, you can freeze the crisp:
- Wrap the cooled dish securely with plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. This double layer will help prevent freezer burn.
- Label the dish with the date and contents for easy reference.
- Place the wrapped dish in the freezer, where it will keep for up to 3 months.
To reheat the crisp from the refrigerator:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Remove the plastic wrap or foil from the dish.
- Place the dish in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and the topping is crisp.
To reheat the frozen crisp:
- Remove the dish from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Remove the plastic wrap and foil from the dish.
- Place the dish in the oven and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until heated through and the topping is crisp.
If you want to freeze individual portions, cut the cooled crisp into servings and wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap and foil. To reheat, unwrap the desired number of portions and place them on a baking sheet in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and crisp.
How To Reheat Leftover Cranberry Apple Raisin Crisp
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover cranberry apple raisin crisp in an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking to crisp up the topping.
For a quicker method, reheat individual portions in the microwave. Place a serving of the crisp in a microwave-safe bowl and heat it on high power for 1-2 minutes, or until warmed to your liking. If the topping becomes soggy, you can place the bowl under the broiler for a minute or two to crisp it up.
If you have a bit more time, reheat the cranberry apple raisin crisp in a skillet on the stovetop. Place a portion of the crisp in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Cover the skillet and let it warm for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. This method helps to maintain the texture of the fruit and the crispness of the topping.
For a more indulgent treat, top the reheated crisp with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. The contrast of warm fruit and cold, creamy toppings is simply irresistible.
If you find that the leftover crisp has become a bit dry, you can add a splash of orange juice or apple juice before reheating to help moisten the fruit and revive the flavors.
Interesting Trivia About Cranberry Apple Raisin Crisp
A random fact about this recipe is that the combination of cranberries, apples, and raisins provides a delightful mix of tart and sweet flavors, making it a perfect dessert for the fall and winter seasons.
Is Making Cranberry Apple Raisin Crisp at Home Cost-Effective?
This cranberry apple raisin crisp recipe is quite cost-effective. The main ingredients like cranberries, apples, and raisins are generally affordable, especially when bought in season. The use of pantry staples such as oats, flour, and brown sugar further reduces costs. With an approximate cost of $10-$12 for a household of 4, this dessert offers great value. Overall Verdict: 8/10.
Is This Crisp Recipe Healthy or Not?
This cranberry apple raisin crisp recipe is a delightful dessert, but it does have some aspects that make it less than healthy. The main concerns are:
- High sugar content: With both brown sugar and granulated sugar, this recipe contains a significant amount of added sugars.
- Butter: While butter adds flavor and richness, it is also high in saturated fat.
- Refined flour: The recipe uses all-purpose flour, which is a refined carbohydrate.
However, the recipe also includes some healthy ingredients:
- Fruits: Cranberries, apples, and raisins provide fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
- Oats: Old-fashioned oats are a whole grain and a good source of fiber.
- Orange zest and juice: These add natural flavor and some vitamin C.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:
- Reduce the amount of added sugars by using less brown sugar and granulated sugar. You can also experiment with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.
- Replace some or all of the butter with healthier alternatives like coconut oil or olive oil.
- Swap out the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour or a gluten-free alternative like almond flour.
- Increase the proportion of fruits and oats in the recipe to boost the fiber and nutrient content.
- Add some chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for healthy fats and extra crunch.
By making these adjustments, you can create a more nutritious version of this crisp that still satisfies your sweet tooth.
Editor's Opinion on This Delightful Crisp
This cranberry apple raisin crisp recipe is a delightful blend of tart and sweet flavors, perfect for a cozy dessert. The combination of cranberries, apples, and raisins creates a rich, fruity base, while the orange zest and juice add a refreshing citrus note. The crumb topping, made with oats, flour, and brown sugar, provides a satisfying crunch. Baking at 375 degrees Fahrenheit ensures the fruit becomes tender and the topping turns golden brown. Allowing it to cool for 15 minutes before serving helps the flavors meld beautifully. This dish is both comforting and sophisticated, ideal for any occasion.
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Why trust this Cranberry Apple Raisin Crisp Recipe:
This cranberry apple raisin crisp recipe is a delightful blend of tart cranberries, sweet golden delicious apples, and chewy raisins. The crumb topping made with old fashioned oats, brown sugar, and butter adds a perfect crunch. The hint of orange zest and orange juice elevates the flavors, making it a must-try dessert. Trust this recipe for its balanced sweetness and texture, perfect for any occasion.
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