Nutrition Facts
Servings 9
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 300kcal
Picture this: It’s a brisk fall evening, and the cozy aromas of cinnamon and baked apples fill the kitchen. You’ve just pulled a bubbling apple crisp from the oven, the golden crumble resting atop steaming, spiced apples.
This dessert is a classic, often served warm with a generous scoop of vanilla bean ice cream melting on top. It’s the perfect end to a hearty meal or a gathering with friends. Trust me, there’s something truly magical about sharing a dish that makes everyone feel at home.
Apple crisp is an all-time favorite dessert, especially as we transition from summer to fall. It’s warm, filling, and has a wonderful crunch that beautifully complements the soft, spiced apples underneath.
Plus, it’s simple and welcoming, just like your best friend who makes you feel at ease. Whether you’re looking for a comforting treat or a dish to share at a potluck, this apple crisp recipe with brown sugar will surely impress.
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In essence, apple crisp is baked fruit topped with a crumbly mixture, often containing oats, flour, and sugar, baked until golden brown. The beauty of apple crisp lies in its simplicity. You have sweet, tender apples, flavored with cinnamon and lemon juice, balanced by a crunchy topping that’s sweetened with brown sugar. The combination creates a delightful texture and flavor profile that never fails to delight, especially when paired with ice cream!
To whip up this mouthwatering apple crisp, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- For the Spiced Apples:
- 6 golden delicious apples, peeled and diced (feel free to use your favorite variety)
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 1/2 teaspoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- For the Crisp Topping:
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 3/4 cup rolled oats (instant oats can work, but the texture will change slightly)
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- A pinch of kosher salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg for extra warmth
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped walnuts for added crunch
Ingredients From : thechunkychef.com
Making apple crisp is a breeze! It requires a few straightforward steps, and you’ll have a dish that’s sure to shine. Let’s dive into the directions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). As it warms up, let's prepare our baking dish. You can either butter it generously or spray it with non-stick cooking spray. This will ensure your apple crisp comes out smoothly.
In a large mixing bowl, throw in your chopped or diced apples. Sprinkle the sugar over them, then add in the 3/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon and the lemon juice. Gently stir everything together to coat the apples in this sweet mixture. Once combined, carefully transfer the apples to your prepared baking dish. I often use my hands to make sure every apple is evenly coated—nothing like a hands-on approach in the kitchen!
In another bowl, prepare your topping. Combine the brown sugar, rolled oats, flour, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, salt, and if you want a little added depth, toss in the nutmeg. Then, add the cold, diced butter. Using a pastry cutter, cut the butter into the mixture with a gentle twisting motion until it resembles small pea-sized crumbs. If you don’t have a cutter, two forks or even your hands will do the trick—just make sure your butter stays cold.
Take that perfectly crunchy topping and sprinkle it generously over the spiced apples in your baking dish. Use your hands or a spatula to pat it down gently, aiming for an even layer. Pop it into the oven and bake for about 40 to 50 minutes. You’ll know it's time to take it out when the top turns golden brown and the apples are bubbling delightfully underneath.
Remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Trust me; this is the happy ending your apple crisp deserves!
To make the most out of your apple crisp experience, consider these helpful tips:
- Use a mix of apples. For more depth of flavor, combine sweet and tart varieties, like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp.
- Slice vs Chop? Slicing the apples gives you a different look and texture compared to chopping—decide based on your preference!
- Experiment with spices. Adding a touch of nutmeg or allspice can elevate the flavor.
- Make it ahead! You can assemble the crisp a day before and store it in the refrigerator. Just pop it in the oven when ready to bake.
- Don’t skip the ice cream. A scoop of your favorite vanilla or caramel ice cream adds a creamy contrast to the crispy topping.
If you find yourself with any leftovers (though that’s a big if), store them in an airtight container in the fridge. It should last for three to five days. Reheat in the oven for about 10-15 minutes to revive the crispiness of the topping, or use the microwave for a quicker fix.
If you're planning to serve this delightful apple crisp as part of a meal, consider these complementary sides:
- Pork Tenderloin: The flavors of apple and pork work wonders together—try roasting the pork with some herbs!
- Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies, roasted to caramelize their flavors, can balance the sweetness of dessert.
- Quinoa Salad: This will add a nutritious element to your meal, rich in protein and fiber.
- Grilled Chicken: A lightly seasoned grilled chicken adds a savory element that pairs nicely post dessert.
- Cheese Board: After enjoying dessert, a cheese platter with sharp cheddar goes well with sweet fruit flavors.
If you’re in the mood to switch things up, here are some substitutes to consider:
- Different Sweeteners: Swap brown sugar for maple syrup or honey for a natural sweetener alternative.
- Butter Alternatives: Coconut oil can replace butter for a dairy-free version that’s equally delicious.
- Gluten-Free Options: Use almond flour or gluten-free oats if you need to make this dish gluten-free.
- Various Fruits: Try mixed berries or peaches; both would add a unique twist while retaining the essence of a crisp dessert.
- Nut Variations: Experiment with different nuts; pecans or almonds can offer unique flavors and textures.
There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm apple crisp, especially when it’s made with love and the best ingredients. This apple crisp recipe with brown sugar is sure to become a go-to dish for gatherings, family dinners, or even just a cozy night in.
With its simple preparation and delightful flavors, you get that homemade touch that feels like a warm hug. So, fire up your oven, grab those apples, and let’s create some sweet memories together! When you serve this warm, you’ll be the host with the most, and everyone will be clamoring for seconds!
Apple crisp is an all-time favorite dessert, especially as we transition from summer to fall. It’s warm, filling, and has a wonderful crunch that beautifully complements the soft, spiced apples underneath.
Servings 9
To make the most out of your apple crisp experience, consider these helpful tips:
- Use a mix of apples. For more depth of flavor, combine sweet and tart varieties, like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp.
- Slice vs Chop? Slicing the apples gives you a different look and texture compared to chopping—decide based on your preference!
- Experiment with spices. Adding a touch of nutmeg or allspice can elevate the flavor.
- Make it ahead! You can assemble the crisp a day before and store it in the refrigerator. Just pop it in the oven when ready to bake.
- Don’t skip the ice cream. A scoop of your favorite vanilla or caramel ice cream adds a creamy contrast to the crispy topping.
I’m Crystal Ivers, a registered dietitian and the creator of Easy Family Meal. Living in Chicago with my family, I’m passionate about helping busy families create simple, nutritious, and delicious meals. Through my blog, I share easy-to-make recipes and practical tips to make family mealtime enjoyable and stress-free.