Are you ready to indulge in the sweet and comforting flavors of apple crisp? This classic dessert was a favorite dessert from my childhood. This recipe was my mom’s go-to apple recipe for any fruit crisp. She used flour to thicken the fruit instead of the instant clear gel.
If you want to make this recipe gluten-free or vegan, it is so easy. Simply substitute measure for gluten-free flour for the all-purpose flour and vegan butter for the butter.
The combination of tender apples, warm spices, and a crispy, buttery topping is irresistible. Whether you’re baking it for a special occasion or simply craving a comforting treat, apple crisp is sure to satisfy. The aroma that fills your kitchen as it bakes is enough to make your mouth water. So gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a slice of homemade apple crisp. It’s the perfect dessert to bring warmth and joy to any gathering or to treat yourself to a well-deserved sweet treat.
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Key Takeaways:
- Versatile Recipe: This apple crisp recipe is adaptable for various dietary preferences—easily swap in gluten-free flour or vegan butter to suit your needs.
- Simple Base for Fruit Crisps: Use this recipe as a foundation for other fruit crisps, such as peach, berry, or tropical fruit combinations.
- Brain-Boosting Apples: Apples support brain health by delivering antioxidants, natural sugars for focus, and fiber for gut-brain connection.
- Flavorful Ingredients: Key ingredients like boiled cider and homemade apple pie spice elevate the flavor of this dessert.
- Comforting and Easy: With warm spices, tender apples, and a crispy topping, apple crisp is a comforting treat for any occasion.
- Perfect Pairing: Serve warm with vanilla ice cream for an unbeatable dessert experience.
Overview
If you’re searching for a nostalgic dessert that delivers warmth, comfort, and simplicity in every bite, this classic apple crisp recipe is your perfect match. Adapted from a cherished family favorite, it’s a versatile, no-fuss treat made with tender apples, cozy spices, and a buttery oat topping that bakes to golden perfection. Whether you’re craving a dessert that fills your kitchen with irresistible aroma or need a go-to recipe that’s easily adaptable for gluten-free or vegan diets, this apple crisp does it all. With the added nutritional benefits of apples—supporting brain health, gut wellness, and emotional balance—this dish goes beyond comfort food. It’s nourishment for body and soul. From casual weeknights to festive gatherings, this crisp is not just a dessert—it’s a heartfelt reminder that simple ingredients can create lasting joy.
SIS - Simple is Smart Tip
Use this recipe for all of your fruit crisps. I use it for peaches, rhubarb, berries, and even tropical fruit. I make a mango pineapple crisp using this basic recipe and a mango kiwi crisp. You may need to adjust the sweetness of the fruit but otherwise it can be used unchanged.
Neuro Nutrition Nugget - Apples
Apples are not only delicious but also incredibly beneficial for your brain health. Packed with essential nutrients, apples are a great addition to your diet if you want to boost your cognitive function. The high antioxidant content in apples helps protect brain cells from oxidative stress and reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.
Additionally, the natural sugars present in apples provide a steady supply of energy to the brain, improving focus and concentration. So, next time you’re craving a snack, reach for an apple and give your brain the nourishment it deserves!
Lastly apples are high in fiber and fiber is what keeps our gut healthy. Our gut also has a brain and it makes up to 80% of the seratonin in our body. Seratonin is that feel good chemical that helps stabilize our mood and is important for treating depression. A healthy gut microbiome creates a happier brain.
What are the Ingredients I will need to make Apple Crisp:
- Apples: You need a total of 6 cups which is about 6 medium apples. I like to use a combination of sweet, tart, and crunchy apples. Granny Smith, Macintosh, and Honey Crisp.
- Sugar: Use either brown or granulated sugar
- Instant Clear Gel: This is my go to thickner for all fruit pies, It thickens instantly and doesn’t break down during baking.
- Boiled Cider: This is apple cider that is boiled to a thick syrup consistency.
- Apple Pie Spice: If you don’t have apple pie spice, make your own with 2 Tbsp. cinnamon, 1 tsp nutmeg, and 1 tsp all spice. You will have extra for the next time you need some.
- Salt: just a bit of salt enhances the taste.
Topping
- Old Fashioned Rolled Oats: Old Fashioned oats are preferred but I’ve used instant in a pinch.
- Brown Sugar for a hint of sweetness
- Apple Pie Spice: for that delicious apple pie flavor.
- Butter or Vegan Butter: Either are delicious
- Flour or Gluten Free Flour: Use all purpose flour or Measure for Measure Gluten Free Flour.
Step by Step Instructions for Apple Crisp:
- Peel core and slice the apples. Add the apple pie spice and instant clear gel to the sugar.
- Add the sugar, clear gel, apple pie spice mixture to the apples.
- Add the boiled cider and mix all together.
- Put the apple mixture in a square 9 X 9-inch baking pan for a thinner crisp, use an 8-1/2 X 11-inch rectangular or oval baking pan.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the rolled oats, brown sugar, cinnamon and flour.
- Melt the butter and add to the oats mixture. Stir until the dry ingredients are all moistened.
- Add topping to the fruit. Bake 350°F for 40 minutes. Serve warm with some vanilla ice cream.
I love a warm apple dessert on a chilly fall or winter afternoon. Some of my favorite apple recipes. Apple Pie Bars: these bars are like apple pie in a bar. For a different twist on an apple pastry make this Cinnamon Apple Twist pastry with crumb topping, which is always a crowd pleaser.
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FAQ:
Can I make this recipe gluten-free or vegan?
What kind of apples work best for apple crisp?
Can I use this recipe for other fruits?
What is boiled cider, and is it necessary?
Can I make my own apple pie spice?
How should I store leftover apple crisp?
Apple Crisp
Equipment
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- To see the ingredient amounts in metric units, click the blue "METRIC:" button between the ingredients and the instructions for this recipe.
Ingredients
- 3 cups tart apples like Granny Smith (see notes)
- 3 cups sweet apples like Gala
- 2/3 cup sugar (either white or brown)
- 3 tbsp instant clear gel
- 1 tbsp apple pie spice
- ¼ cup boiled cider
Topping
- 1 cup rolled oats old-fashioned
- ½ cup brown sugar packed
- ½ cup butter melted
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp apple pie spice
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F
- Peel, core and slice the apples. Mix the instant clear gel and apple pie spice with the sugar.
- Add the sugar mixture, and boiled cider to the apples and mix.
- Put the apple mixture in a square 9 X 9-inch baking pan for a thicker crisp. Use an 8-1/2 X 11-inch rectangular or oval baking pan for a thinner crisp.
Topping
- Mix together the rolled oats, brown sugar, apple pie spice and flour.
- Melt the butter and add to the oats mixture. Stir until the dry ingredients are all moistened.
- Add topping to the fruit. Bake 350°F for 45 minutes.
- Serve warm with some vanilla ice cream.
Video
Notes
- Make the apple crisp a holiday crisp by substituting 2 cups of the apples with a can of whole cranberry sauce.
Nutrition
