Easy Apple Crisp

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There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm apple crisp straight from the oven. The tender apples bubbling under a blanket of golden, buttery crisp topping bring a nostalgic sweetness that feels like home. Whether you’re baking for a cozy night in, a holiday dessert table, or just because you found some great apples, this easy apple crisp is the kind of dessert that’s as effortless as it is satisfying.

Unlike pies, which require rolling out dough and careful assembly, apple crisp is wonderfully simple. With minimal prep and a short list of ingredients, you can turn pantry staples and fresh apples into a warm dessert that’s always a crowd favorite. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and it becomes downright irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Apple Crisp

This recipe is the definition of easy comfort. It comes together quickly, requires no fancy equipment, and uses ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. The topping has the perfect balance of crunch and chew, thanks to oats and brown sugar, while the apples soften into a sweet-tart filling that isn’t too sugary. It’s the perfect go-to dessert for fall or any time you crave a little cinnamon-spiced warmth.

What Kind of Apples Should I Use?

You want apples that hold their shape when baked, offering a good mix of sweet and tart. Granny Smiths are a classic choice because of their tartness and firm texture. If you want to mix things up, try using a combination—like Honeycrisp for sweetness and Braeburn or Jonagold for depth. Avoid apples that get too mushy when cooked, like Red Delicious, as they can break down too much in the oven.

Ingredients for the Easy Apple Crisp

This crisp comes together with a short and sweet list of ingredients that highlight the apples without overpowering them. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Apples
• Brown Sugar
• Old-Fashioned Oats
• All-Purpose Flour
• Unsalted Butter
• Ground Cinnamon
• Ground Nutmeg
• Lemon Juice
• Vanilla Extract
• Salt

The apples provide the juicy filling, while the brown sugar and oats bring that crumbly golden topping we love. Butter makes everything rich, and a bit of lemon juice balances the sweetness. Cinnamon and nutmeg add cozy warmth, and a splash of vanilla gives depth to both the topping and the fruit.

How To Make the Easy Apple Crisp

Step 1: Prep the Apples

Peel, core, and slice your apples. Toss them with lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract. Spread them evenly in a buttered baking dish.

Step 2: Mix the Topping

In a mixing bowl, combine the oats, flour, brown sugar, salt, and cinnamon. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Step 3: Assemble the Crisp

Sprinkle the topping over the apples, covering them completely but not pressing down too firmly.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35 to 40 minutes until the top is golden brown and the apple filling is bubbling up around the edges.

Step 5: Cool Slightly and Serve

Let the crisp cool for about 10 minutes before serving. It’s best enjoyed warm, especially with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

How to Serve and Store This Apple Crisp

This easy apple crisp serves about 6 people and is best enjoyed warm, either plain or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. If you have leftovers, store them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm it in the oven to bring back that crisp topping or microwave individual portions for a quick treat.

What to Serve With Apple Crisp?

Hot Vanilla Sauce

Pour warm vanilla custard sauce over your apple crisp for a creamy, decadent upgrade.

Whipped Cream

A simple swirl of whipped cream adds lightness and contrast to the warm crisp.

Vanilla Ice Cream

This classic pairing never fails. The cold, creamy ice cream melts into the hot crisp for the best bite.

Caramel Drizzle

Add a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence and a richer flavor profile.

Sharp Cheddar Cheese

Yes, seriously. A slice of sharp cheddar melts slightly over warm crisp, adding a salty counterpoint.

Spiced Chai or Apple Cider

Sip on something warm and spiced while you enjoy your dessert for the ultimate cozy moment.

Yogurt Parfait Style

Layer leftovers with yogurt and granola for a breakfast-style twist the next day.

Want More Dessert Ideas with a Twist?

If you love this easy apple crisp, you’ll probably enjoy these other cozy favorites:

• Butter Pecan Cheesecake for rich nutty indulgence.
• Peanut Butter Cowboy Cookies when you’re craving peanut butter and texture.
• Pumpkin Bread with Maple Cream Cheese Filling for warm fall flavors in every bite.
• Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies to satisfy your sweet tooth with a buttery finish.
• Carrot Pound Cake if you love spice and sweetness balanced in a loaf.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you try a mix of apples or go with a classic Granny Smith? Did you sneak in some chopped pecans or drizzle it with caramel?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other bake smarter.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and cozy dessert recipes on Zoe Recipes on Pinterest and discover your next go-to!

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