Easy Old Fashioned Apple Crisp

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This apple crisp is straightforward to make yet delivers incredible flavor and texture. The topping is buttery, crisp, and full of warm cinnamon, while the apples bake down into a sweet and slightly tangy filling. It’s versatile, customizable, and pairs beautifully with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. Whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering or just want a simple family dessert, this recipe always impresses.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Topping:

• ¾ cup rolled oats (not instant; confirm gluten-free if needed)
• ⅓ cup all-purpose flour, unbleached (or substitute with gluten-free flour)
• ½ cup butter, softened
• ¾ cup brown sugar, packed (light or dark)
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ cup pecans, roasted and chopped (optional)
• Fleur de Sel (optional, for finishing)

Apple Mixture:

• 5–6 cups apples, coarsely chopped (about 5–6 small apples; peeled, partially peeled, or unpeeled)
• 3 tablespoons cane sugar
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
• 2 teaspoons cinnamon

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, combine oats, flour, butter, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, salt, and pecans (if using). Mix until crumbly.
3. In a separate bowl, toss the chopped apples with cane sugar, flour, and cinnamon until evenly coated.
4. Transfer the apple mixture to the prepared baking dish.
5. Sprinkle the oat topping evenly over the apples.
6. Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown and crisp.
7. Let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with a sprinkle of Fleur de Sel if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6–8 people. Preparation takes about 15 minutes, with a baking time of 40–45 minutes. Total time is approximately 1 hour.

Variations

• Swap apples with pears or use a mix of both for a different flavor.
• Add dried cranberries or raisins to the apple mixture for extra sweetness.
• Replace pecans with walnuts or almonds for a nutty crunch.
• Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for more warmth.
• Make individual crisps by baking in ramekins instead of one large dish.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10–12 minutes to restore crispness, or warm individual portions in the microwave. Apple crisp can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven before serving.

FAQs

What are the best apples to use for apple crisp?

A mix of tart and sweet apples, such as Granny Smith and Honeycrisp, gives the best balance of flavor.

Can I leave the apple skins on?

Yes, you can peel, partially peel, or leave the skins on depending on your preference.

Can I make apple crisp ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the crisp, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Bake just before serving.

How do I keep the topping crispy?

Reheat in the oven instead of the microwave to maintain the crunch.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply use gluten-free flour and confirm gluten-free oats.

Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?

Yes, you can reduce the sugar slightly in both the topping and apple mixture without affecting texture.

Can I use other fruits in this crisp?

Yes, try pears, peaches, or berries for a variation, either alone or mixed with apples.

Why is my topping not crisp?

If the butter wasn’t well incorporated or the crisp was underbaked, the topping may turn soft. Make sure it bakes until golden.

Can I freeze unbaked apple crisp?

Yes, assemble the crisp and freeze before baking. Bake from frozen, adding extra time as needed.

What should I serve with apple crisp?

It pairs beautifully with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

Conclusion

This easy old fashioned apple crisp brings together tender, cinnamon-spiced apples with a buttery, crunchy oat topping for the ultimate comfort dessert. Simple to make and endlessly adaptable, it’s a crowd-pleasing favorite that tastes like home. Whether served warm with ice cream or enjoyed on its own, this recipe is a timeless classic that never disappoints.

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