Apple Crisp
The Cozy Comfort of Apple Crisp: A Timeless Fall Favorite
Fall is here, and with it comes the irresistible scent of cinnamon and baked apples wafting through the kitchen. Apple crisp is one of those desserts that embodies everything we love about autumn. It’s simple, comforting, and the perfect way to showcase the bounty of fresh apples that this season delivers.
There’s something truly magical about how apple crisp transforms a few humble ingredients into a golden, bubbling masterpiece. The combination of tender apples, warm spices, and a crunchy oat topping creates a balance of textures and flavors that is simply unmatched. Unlike pies, apple crisp doesn’t require much fuss—no dough to roll out or intricate designs to make—just a cozy dessert that brings warmth with every bite.
What I love most about apple crisp is its versatility. Whether you prefer your apples tart or sweet, or like to add a hint of nutmeg or cloves, it’s a dish that can easily be adapted to your personal taste. And let’s not forget the endless possibilities for toppings: a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a drizzle of caramel, or even a dollop of whipped cream can take it to the next level.
This dessert also shines in its ability to bring people together. Whether you’re making it for a casual family dinner or bringing it to a fall gathering, it’s one of those dishes that invites everyone to take just one more bite. There’s a rustic charm to apple crisp—it’s not about perfection, but rather about creating something that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day.
So, as the days grow cooler and apples are in their prime, there’s no better time to make a batch of apple crisp. It’s a sweet reminder that some of the best things in life are simple and made to be shared.
Apple Crisp
Ingredients
Filling
- – 2 ½ pounds apples
- – 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- – 3 tablespoons maple syrup, the real stuff, not the fake kind
- – ½ teaspoon salt
Topping
- – ½ cup oats
- – ¾ cup flour
- – ½ cup coconut sugar, brown sugar or turbinado sugar can be used instead
- – ½ teaspoon salt
- – ½ teaspoon cardamom
- – ¼ teaspoon nutmeg, freshly grated if possible
- – 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- – ½ cup unsalted butter, cold
Instructions
- Peel and core the apples, then slice them into about ¼-inch slices.
- Place in a bowl and combine with lemon juice, maple syrup, and salt. Toss together.
- Prepare the topping by combining the oats, flour, sugar, salt, cardamom, nutmeg, and cinnamon in a bowl. Cut the cold butter into small cubes and add them to the dry ingredients. Use your hands or a pastry cutter to cut the butter into the mixture until it is crumbly.
- Butter a cast iron skillet (mine was about 11 inches, but a 9×9 baking dish can be used as well, though baking time may vary). Pour the apples into the prepared skillet or baking dish. Add the topping evenly over the apples.
- Place in a 350-degree Fahrenheit oven for about 30-40 minutes, or until bubbly and the crisp is slightly golden. I like to serve mine with vanilla ice cream or homemade whipped cream.