The Best Apple Crisp Recipe
Introduction
Apple crisp is a comforting dessert that combines tender baked apples with a crunchy, buttery topping. This easy recipe creates the perfect balance of sweet and spice, making it a favorite for any season.

Ingredients
- 5 cups fresh apples (sliced)
- 1/2 cup granulated white sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup old fashioned oats
- 2/3 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) butter (melted)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a deep dish pie plate or large baking dish with butter or cooking spray and set aside.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples with the granulated sugar, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Mix well to evenly coat the apples, then pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Step 3: In a separate medium bowl, stir together the all-purpose flour, oats, brown sugar, salt, and the remaining 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon. Add the melted butter and mix until the ingredients are well coated and the texture is crumbly.
- Step 4: Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the apples in the baking dish.
- Step 5: Bake for 45 to 60 minutes, until the apples are soft and the topping turns golden brown. Let the apple crisp cool slightly before serving.
- Step 6: Serve warm, optionally topped with vanilla ice cream for a classic treat. Enjoy!
Tips & Variations
- Use a mix of tart and sweet apples like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp for more complex flavor.
- For extra crunch, add chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans to the topping mixture.
- Swap old fashioned oats for quick oats if you prefer a finer topping texture.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the apple mixture for added warmth and depth.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free flour and oats.
Storage
Store leftover apple crisp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire dish in a 350°F oven until heated through. The topping will soften over time, so reheating helps restore some crispness.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen apples for this recipe?
Frozen apples can be used if fresh apples are not available, but be sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before mixing to avoid a soggy crisp.
How do I know when the apple crisp is done?
The apple crisp is ready when the apples are soft and bubbly around the edges, and the topping is golden brown and crisp. You can test the apples by gently inserting a fork into the fruit.
PrintThe Best Apple Crisp Recipe
This classic apple crisp features tender baked apples spiced with cinnamon and vanilla, topped with a buttery, crumbly oat and brown sugar topping. Perfectly golden and served warm, it pairs wonderfully with vanilla ice cream for a comforting dessert.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Apple Filling
- 5 cups fresh apples, sliced
- 1/2 cup granulated white sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Crisp Topping
- 1/2 cup all purpose flour
- 1/3 cup old fashioned oats
- 2/3 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare baking dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a deep dish pie plate or a large baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Mix the apple filling: In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples with granulated sugar, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Toss well until the apples are evenly coated. Transfer this mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Make the crisp topping: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, old fashioned oats, brown sugar, salt, and 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon. Pour the melted butter into the dry ingredients and stir with a spoon until the mixture is well combined and crumbly.
- Assemble and bake: Sprinkle the crumbly topping evenly over the apples in the baking dish. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 60 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown and crisp.
- Cool and serve: Remove the apple crisp from the oven and let it cool slightly to set. Serve warm, ideally topped with vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast in temperature and flavor. Enjoy your comforting homemade dessert!
Notes
- You can use a mix of sweet and tart apples (such as Granny Smith and Fuji) for balanced flavor and texture.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blend.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
- Add chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans to the topping for extra crunch.
- This crisp can be served with whipped cream or custard as alternatives to ice cream.
Keywords: apple crisp, apple dessert, baked apple dessert, cinnamon apple crisp, autumn dessert, easy apple crisp

