Name: Easy Apple Crisp Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup oats; ½ cup almond meal; ½ cup pecans; 1½ tsp Cinnamon; ¼ tsp salt; ¼ cup maple syrup; ¼ cup butter; 4 apples; 2 tsp lemon juice

Indulge in the comforting flavors of a classic apple crisp with this easy recipe. This dessert features a warm, spiced apple filling beneath a crispy, golden oat topping. Perfect for any occasion, it’s a delightful treat that brings the essence of autumn to your table.

Photos of Easy Apple Crisp Recipe

When heading to the supermarket, keep an eye out for almond meal and maple syrup, as these might not be staples in every pantry. Almond meal is finely ground almonds, often found in the baking aisle or health food section. Maple syrup is usually located near the pancake mixes or in the syrup section.

Ingredients for Easy Apple Crisp Recipe

Oats: Adds a hearty texture and slight chewiness to the crisp topping.

Almond meal: Provides a nutty flavor and helps bind the topping together.

Pecans: Contributes a crunchy texture and rich, buttery taste.

Cinnamon: Infuses the dish with warm, spicy notes.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor.

Maple syrup: Adds natural sweetness and depth of flavor.

Butter: Helps to create a rich, crispy topping.

Apples: The star ingredient, providing a sweet and tart filling.

Lemon juice: Adds a bright, acidic note to balance the sweetness.

One reader, Clarita Milburn says:

This easy apple crisp recipe is a delight! The combination of oats, pecans, and cinnamon creates a perfect crunchy topping, while the apples are tender and flavorful. Simple to make and absolutely delicious. A new favorite dessert in our home!

Clarita Milburn

Key Techniques for Mastering Apple Crisp

How to melt butter: Melt butter in a microwave-safe dish in 15-second intervals, stirring in between, until fully melted. How to preheat oven: Set your oven to the desired temperature (350 degrees F in this case) and allow it to heat up before placing your dish inside. How to grease a pan: Use a small amount of butter or oil to coat the inside of the pan evenly, preventing sticking. How to combine ingredients: Use a mixing bowl and a spoon or spatula to thoroughly mix the ingredients until they are evenly distributed.

How To Make Easy Apple Crisp

This classic apple crisp recipe is easy to make and always delicious, plus it can be easily made vegan. It has some nice crunch from the added nuts as well.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 35 minutes

Total: 50 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1cupoats,old-fashioned
½cupalmond meal
½cuppecans,chopped, or walnuts
1½tspcinnamon,ground, divided
¼tspsalt
¼cupmaple syrup
¼cupbutter,melted, or coconut oil, if making this recipe vegan
4apples,cored and diced, about 5-6 cups
2tsplemon juice,freshly-squeezed

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
Add oats, almond meal, nuts, ½ teaspoon cinnamon, and salt to a mixing bowl, and toss until combined. Add maple syrup and melted butter (or coconut oil), then toss until combined. Set aside.
In a separate bowl, combine the apples, lemon juice and remaining 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and toss until combined. Spread the apple mixture evenly into a greased 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch pan, then sprinkle the oat mixture evenly on top of the apples.
Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the topping is crisp and golden and the apples are soft and cooked through. Serve immediately.
Or let the apple crisp cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Calories: 284.84kcal
Fat: 15.22g
Saturated Fat: 4.53g
Trans Fat: 0.23g
Monounsaturated Fat: 4.45g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.10g
Carbohydrates: 34.76g
Fiber: 5.83g
Sugar: 15.94g
Protein: 5.75g
Cholesterol: 15.25mg
Sodium: 76.12mg
Calcium: 41.97mg
Potassium: 283.37mg
Iron: 1.32mg
Vitamin A: 51.51µg
Vitamin C: 4.76mg

Crucial Technique for Achieving the Perfect Crumble Topping

To ensure your apple crisp has a perfectly balanced flavor, try using a mix of sweet and tart apples. Varieties like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp work wonderfully together. This combination will give your dessert a more complex taste and prevent it from being overly sweet.

Time-Saving Tips for Making easy apple crisp recipe

Pre-chop apples: Prepare the apples in advance and store them in the fridge to save time on the day of baking.

Use pre-made almond meal: Purchase almond meal instead of making it yourself to cut down on preparation time.

Melt butter in microwave: Quickly melt the butter in the microwave instead of using a stovetop.

Mix dry ingredients ahead: Combine the oats, pecans, and other dry ingredients the night before to streamline the process.

Use a food processor: Chop the pecans and mix the oat mixture in a food processor to save time.

Substitute Ingredients For Easy Apple Crisp Recipe

oats - Substitute with quinoa flakes: Quinoa flakes provide a similar texture and are gluten-free, making them a good alternative for those with gluten sensitivities.
almond meal - Substitute with coconut flour: Coconut flour is also gluten-free and adds a subtle coconut flavor, which can complement the sweetness of the apples.
pecans - Substitute with walnuts: Walnuts have a similar texture and nutty flavor, making them a great alternative to pecans.
cinnamon - Substitute with nutmeg: Nutmeg offers a warm, spicy flavor that can replace cinnamon in many recipes, though it is slightly more pungent.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used in the same quantity and provides a similar flavor profile.
maple syrup - Substitute with honey: Honey is a natural sweetener that can replace maple syrup, though it has a slightly different flavor.
butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil is a plant-based alternative that provides a similar texture and richness.
apples - Substitute with pears: Pears have a similar texture and sweetness, making them a good alternative to apples in a crisp.
lemon juice - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar provides the necessary acidity and a complementary flavor to the fruit.

Presentation Tips for a Delightful Apple Crisp

Use a shallow, wide dish: Opt for a shallow, wide dish to bake the apple crisp in. This allows for a more even distribution of the oat mixture and ensures that each bite has a perfect balance of apples and crisp topping.
Create layers: When plating, create a layered effect by placing a spoonful of apple mixture at the bottom and then topping it with a generous amount of crisp topping. This adds visual interest and highlights the different textures.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Add a sprig of fresh mint or a few leaves of thyme on top of the apple crisp for a pop of color and a hint of freshness that complements the dish.
Drizzle with sauce: Prepare a simple maple syrup or caramel sauce and drizzle it artistically over the apple crisp. This adds a touch of elegance and enhances the sweetness.
Serve with a side of ice cream: Pair the apple crisp with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or cinnamon ice cream. The contrast between the warm crisp and the cold ice cream creates a delightful sensory experience.
Add a dusting of powdered sugar: Lightly dust the top of the apple crisp with powdered sugar just before serving. This adds a touch of sophistication and a hint of sweetness.
Use a decorative plate: Present the apple crisp on a beautifully designed plate. The presentation of the dish is just as important as the taste, and a well-chosen plate can elevate the overall dining experience.
Incorporate edible flowers: Garnish the plate with a few edible flowers such as pansies or violets. This adds a vibrant and elegant touch to the presentation.
Serve smaller portion sizes: For a refined presentation, serve smaller, individual portions of the apple crisp. This allows for a more controlled and aesthetically pleasing plating.
Add a touch of citrus zest: Grate a small amount of lemon zest or orange zest over the top of the apple crisp just before serving. This adds a burst of citrus aroma and a hint of brightness to the dish.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Apple Crisp

Oven: Used to bake the apple crisp at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until the topping is crisp and golden and the apples are soft and cooked through.
Mixing bowl: Needed to combine the oats, almond meal, nuts, cinnamon, and salt, as well as to mix the apple, lemon juice, and cinnamon mixture.
Measuring cups: Essential for accurately measuring the oats, almond meal, pecans, maple syrup, and butter.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure the cinnamon, salt, and lemon juice.
8×8-inch or 9×9-inch pan: The baking dish where the apple mixture and oat topping are layered and baked.
Spatula: Useful for spreading the apple mixture evenly in the pan and for mixing the ingredients.
Knife: Needed to peel, core, and slice the apples.
Cutting board: Provides a safe surface to peel, core, and slice the apples.
Grease brush: Used to grease the baking pan to prevent the apple crisp from sticking.
Microwave or stovetop: To melt the butter or coconut oil before mixing it with the oat mixture.

Storing and Freezing Apple Crisp for Later Enjoyment

Let the apple crisp cool completely to room temperature before storing or freezing.
To store in the refrigerator, cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it in the fridge for up to 5 days.
To freeze the apple crisp:
- Wrap the cooled crisp tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil.
- Label the wrapped dish with the date and contents.
- Place the wrapped dish in the freezer for up to 3 months.
To reheat the refrigerated apple crisp:
- 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 apple crisp:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Remove the dish from the freezer and unwrap the foil and plastic wrap.
- Place the dish in the oven and bake for 45-60 minutes, or until heated through and the topping is crisp.
- Note: If the topping starts to brown too quickly, cover the dish loosely with foil for the remaining baking time.
For best results, consume the reheated apple crisp within 2-3 days.

How to Reheat Apple Crisp for Optimal Taste

To reheat leftover apple crisp, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the desired portion in an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes to allow the topping to crisp up again.
For a quicker method, you can use the microwave. Place a single serving of the apple crisp in a microwave-safe bowl and heat it on high power for 30-60 seconds, or until warmed to your liking. Keep in mind that the topping may soften slightly in the microwave.
If you have a large portion of leftover apple crisp and want to reheat it all at once, you can use the oven method mentioned above. However, increase the baking time to 20-25 minutes, or until the crisp is heated through and the topping is crispy.
For a crispy topping, you can also reheat the apple crisp in an air fryer. Set the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the desired portion in the basket. Heat for 3-5 minutes, or until warmed through and the topping is crispy.
If you want to add a fresh twist to your leftover apple crisp, try serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The contrast of warm crisp and cool, creamy topping is simply irresistible.

Interesting Trivia About Apple Crisp

A fun fact about this apple crisp recipe is that it uses almond meal instead of traditional flour, making it a great gluten-free option for those with dietary restrictions.

Budget-Friendly: Making Apple Crisp at Home

This apple crisp recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients like oats, apples, and cinnamon are affordable and often found in most kitchens. The use of maple syrup and almond meal might slightly increase the cost, but they add a unique flavor and texture. Overall, this recipe rates a solid 8 out of 10 in terms of cost-effectiveness. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $10-$12 USD.

Is Apple Crisp Healthy or Unhealthy?

This easy apple crisp recipe is relatively healthy compared to traditional recipes. Here's why:

It uses nutrient-dense ingredients like oats, almond meal, and pecans, which provide fiber, protein, and healthy fats
Maple syrup is used as a natural sweetener instead of refined sugar
The recipe calls for a moderate amount of butter, which can be substituted with coconut oil for a healthier option
Apples are a great source of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants

However, there are a few ways to make this recipe even healthier:

Reduce the amount of maple syrup and butter to lower the overall sugar and fat content
Use a variety of apples to increase the nutritional value and fiber content
Add more spices like nutmeg or ginger to enhance the flavor without adding calories
Serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt instead of ice cream for a protein boost and lower sugar alternative
Experiment with different types of nuts or seeds to vary the texture and nutrient profile

While this apple crisp is a healthier alternative to traditional recipes, it's still a dessert and should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Editor's Opinion: Why This Apple Crisp Recipe Stands Out

This apple crisp recipe is a delightful blend of textures and flavors, perfect for a cozy dessert. The combination of oats, almond meal, and pecans creates a crunchy topping, while the maple syrup and butter add a rich sweetness. The use of cinnamon and lemon juice enhances the natural flavor of the apples, making each bite warm and comforting. The recipe is straightforward and easy to follow, making it accessible for both novice and experienced bakers. Overall, it's a comforting and satisfying treat that can be enjoyed fresh out of the oven or chilled.

Enhance Your Easy Apple Crisp Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Butternut Squash Soup: Imagine the velvety smoothness of butternut squash soup, with a hint of nutmeg and a drizzle of cream. This warm, comforting bowl pairs perfectly with the sweet and crunchy textures of your easy apple crisp. The earthy tones of the squash will complement the cinnamon-spiced apples, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.

Maple-Glazed Carrots: Picture tender carrots glazed with a rich maple syrup and a touch of butter. The natural sweetness of the carrots will echo the maple syrup in your apple crisp, while the slight caramelization adds a delightful contrast to the crisp topping. This side dish will bring a vibrant pop of color and a hint of sweetness to your dessert table.

Cranberry Walnut Salad: Envision a fresh salad with crisp greens, tart cranberries, and crunchy walnuts. Tossed in a light vinaigrette, this salad offers a refreshing counterpoint to the warm, spiced apple crisp. The tartness of the cranberries will cut through the sweetness of the dessert, while the walnuts add an extra layer of crunch.

Spiced Chai Latte: Imagine sipping on a warm, aromatic chai latte infused with cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger. The spices in the chai will mirror those in your apple crisp, creating a seamless flavor experience. The creamy texture of the latte will provide a soothing contrast to the crisp topping, making it the perfect beverage to accompany your dessert.

Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: Picture a scoop of creamy vanilla bean ice cream melting over a warm serving of apple crisp. The smooth, rich vanilla flavor will enhance the cinnamon and maple syrup in the crisp, while the cold ice cream provides a delightful contrast to the hot dessert. This classic pairing is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Delicious Alternatives to Traditional Apple Crisp

Classic Apple Pie: Dive into the timeless delight of a classic apple pie. With a flaky, buttery crust and a sweet, spiced apple filling, this dessert is perfect for any occasion. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra touch of indulgence.

Peach Cobbler: Experience the juicy goodness of a peach cobbler. This dessert features tender peaches nestled under a golden, biscuit-like topping. It's a comforting treat that pairs wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Berry Crumble: Savor the burst of flavors in a berry crumble. This dessert combines a mix of berries with a crunchy, oat-based topping. It's a delightful way to enjoy the natural sweetness of fruits and makes for a perfect summer treat.

Pumpkin Pie: Celebrate the flavors of fall with a pumpkin pie. This classic dessert features a smooth, spiced pumpkin filling in a flaky crust. It's a must-have for any holiday gathering and pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream.

Cherry Clafoutis: Indulge in the elegance of a cherry clafoutis. This French dessert combines cherries with a custard-like batter, baked to perfection. It's a simple yet sophisticated treat that can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.

Appetizer and Main Course Pairings for easy apple crisp recipe

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Stuffed Mushrooms are a delightful way to start any meal. Begin by hollowing out button mushrooms and filling them with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. Top with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese and bake until golden brown. The creamy filling contrasts beautifully with the earthy mushrooms, making each bite a burst of flavor. Serve these warm to enjoy their full richness.

Bruschetta: Bruschetta is a classic appetizer that never fails to impress. Start with slices of toasted baguette and top them with a fresh mixture of diced tomatoes, basil, and garlic. Drizzle with olive oil and a touch of balsamic vinegar for an added depth of flavor. The crisp bread paired with the juicy, flavorful topping creates a perfect balance of textures and tastes. This dish is best served immediately to maintain the crunch of the bread.

Main Courses:

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Elevate your dinner with Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken. This dish features succulent chicken breasts marinated in a zesty blend of lemon juice, garlic, and a medley of fresh herbs. The chicken is then grilled to perfection, offering a delightful balance of citrus and savory flavors. Pair it with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad for a complete meal that’s both healthy and satisfying.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Delight your taste buds with Stuffed Bell Peppers. These vibrant bell peppers are filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, rice, and a blend of spices. Topped with melted cheese and baked to perfection, this dish offers a hearty and flavorful experience. Serve it with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad to round out the meal. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends.

Why trust this Easy Apple Crisp Recipe:

This easy apple crisp recipe is a must-try for any dessert lover. With the perfect blend of oats, almond meal, and pecans, it offers a delightful crunch. The maple syrup and butter create a rich, sweet topping that pairs beautifully with the tender apples. Plus, it's simple to make and uses wholesome ingredients. Whether served warm or chilled, this dish is sure to impress.

Want to share your experience making this easy apple crisp recipe or have any tips to make it even better? Join the discussion in the Baking and Desserts forum section!

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of nut instead of pecans?

Absolutely! You can substitute pecans with walnuts, almonds, or even hazelnuts. Just make sure to chop them roughly the same size as the pecans.

Can I use a different sweetener instead of maple syrup?

Yes, you can use honey, agave syrup, or even brown sugar if you prefer. Just keep in mind that the flavor might change slightly depending on the sweetener you use.

Do I need to peel the apples before using them?

It's up to you! If you prefer a smoother texture, you can peel the apples. If you like a bit of extra fiber and don't mind the peel, you can leave them on.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe is already gluten-free if you use certified gluten-free oats. Just double-check your ingredients to make sure they don't contain any hidden gluten.

How can I store leftovers?

Let the apple crisp cool to room temperature, then cover it and refrigerate for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave when you're ready to enjoy it again.