This Apple Crisp with Oats is a warm, comforting dessert that features tender, sweet apples topped with a crunchy oat mixture. It’s a cozy hug in every bite!
When it comes to dessert, nothing beats the smell of baking apples and cinnamon, right? I can’t resist sneaking a scoop while it’s still warm, especially with a scoop of ice cream on top! 🍏🍦
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: Tart apples like Granny Smith are ideal because they hold their shape and balance the sweetness. If you prefer sweeter apples, try Honeycrisp or Fuji. A mix of sweet and tart apples works great too for a more complex flavor.
Lemon Juice: This adds brightness and acidity. If you don’t have lemon juice, vinegar can work in a pinch, or simply omit it. Your apples will still taste lovely!
Oats: Old-fashioned rolled oats provide a wonderful chewy texture. If you only have quick oats, they can work as well, but the crisp may turn out a bit softer. I usually stick to rolled oats for the best crunch!
Butter: Unsalted butter lets you control the salt. For a dairy-free option, coconut oil or vegan butter can be great substitutes. When using coconut oil, it gives a slight coconut flavor that many enjoy.
How Do You Get the Perfect Crunchy Topping?
The oat topping is what makes this dessert shine. Getting that cozy, crispy layer takes a few simple steps. Here’s how to do it:
- Make sure your butter is chilled when you cut it into the dry ingredients. This helps achieve a flakier topping.
- Mix until you have coarse crumbs; don’t over-mix as you want some texture.
- Spread the topping evenly over the apples. This helps it brown evenly while baking.
Be sure to watch the crisp as it bakes; oven times can vary. You want a nice golden color on top, which means it’s ready to serve!
Apple Crisp with Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 6 cups peeled, cored, and sliced tart apples (such as Granny Smith)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
For the Topping:
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
For Serving:
- Vanilla ice cream (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Apple Crisp takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 45-50 minutes to bake. So, in a little over an hour, you’ll have a warm, delicious dessert ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While waiting, grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Toss the Apple Filling:
In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples with lemon juice, 1/4 cup of the granulated sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Toss everything gently until the apples are well coated. Once mixed, transfer the apple filling to the prepared baking dish and spread them out evenly.
3. Mix the Oat Topping:
Next, in another bowl, mix together the oats, flour, brown sugar, salt, and the remaining 1/2 cup of granulated sugar. This mixture will give your crisp that delicious crunch!
4. Incorporate the Butter:
Now, add the cold butter pieces to the oat mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix the butter into the dry ingredients. You want the mixture to look like coarse crumbs—this texture will create a yummy topping.
5. Combine and Sprinkle:
Evenly sprinkle the oat topping over the apple filling in the baking dish. Make sure every apple slice is covered to ensure even baking!
6. Bake to Perfection:
Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. Keep an eye out for the topping to turn a lovely golden brown, while the apples get tender and bubbly.
7. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, take the apple crisp out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This helps the juices settle. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top if you’d like an extra treat!
Enjoy this delicious, crunchy, and warmly spiced Apple Crisp with Oats! It’s perfect for sharing with family and friends or a cozy dessert on a chilly evening.
Can I Use Other Types of Apples?
Absolutely! While tart apples like Granny Smith are ideal, you can also use sweeter varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji. A mix of sweet and tart apples can enhance the flavor complexity of your crisp.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes, to make this apple crisp gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure your oats are certified gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy it!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat in the oven to maintain the crispy topping, or use the microwave for a quick warming.
Can I Add Nuts to the Topping?
Definitely! Chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts can add a delicious crunch and flavor. Just mix them into the oat topping before spreading it over the apples. About 1/2 cup works well!