If you crave a warm, comforting dessert, this Apple Crisp with Crumble Topping recipe is for you! It combines sweet Granny Smith apples with a buttery crumble, creating the perfect balance of flavors. With just a few simple steps, you’ll whip up a delightful treat in no time. Let’s get started on this quick and easy recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
List of Main Ingredients
– 4 large Granny Smith apples
– 1 cup packed brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter
Optional Ingredients
– 1/2 cup walnuts
– 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon fine salt
Granny Smith apples are my go-to for this dish. They add a nice tartness that balances the sweet crumble. You need four large apples, peeled and sliced thin.
For sweetness, you will use one cup of packed brown sugar. This gives a rich flavor and caramelizes well during baking. You’ll also need a teaspoon of ground cinnamon. This spice adds warmth and depth to the apple mixture.
The crumble topping is simple yet delicious. Use half a cup of unsalted butter. It helps bind the topping together and adds richness.
If you want to add some crunch, consider using walnuts. A half cup of chopped walnuts gives a nutty flavor. For a hint of brightness, add one teaspoon of fresh lemon juice to the apples. Lastly, a quarter teaspoon of fine salt enhances all the flavors.
These ingredients come together to create a comforting and tasty apple crisp.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Set the temperature to 350°F (175°C). This step warms up your oven for baking.
Prepare the Apple Mixture
Start by peeling and thinly slicing four large Granny Smith apples. Place the apple slices in a large bowl. Add 1 teaspoon of fresh lemon juice to keep them bright. Toss the apples gently to coat them in the juice. Next, sprinkle in half of the brown sugar (1/2 cup), 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg. Mix well until all the apple slices are coated. Transfer this mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread the apples evenly for even cooking.
Make the Crumble Topping
In a separate bowl, mix together 1 cup of rolled oats, 1 cup of all-purpose flour, and the remaining brown sugar (1/2 cup). If you like nuts, add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts. Pour in 1/2 cup of melted unsalted butter and 1/4 teaspoon of fine salt. Stir until it looks crumbly, like coarse crumbs. Evenly sprinkle this crumble topping over the apple layer in your baking dish. Make sure to cover all the apples for a crispy finish.
Now, your dish is ready to bake!
Tips & Tricks
Selecting the Right Apples
Granny Smith apples are the best choice for this recipe. They are tart, crisp, and hold their shape well when baked. This tartness balances the sweetness of the sugar. Using these apples gives your apple crisp a bright flavor. If you use sweeter apples, your dish may become too sugary.
Preventing a Soggy Bottom
To avoid a soggy bottom in your apple crisp, follow a few simple steps. First, make sure to slice your apples thinly. This allows them to cook evenly. Next, toss the apples with lemon juice and spices early. This helps draw out excess moisture. Lastly, spread the apple mixture evenly in the baking dish. This ensures that heat circulates well, keeping the bottom crisp.
Serving Suggestions
When serving your apple crisp, consider adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. The cold ice cream pairs perfectly with the warm apples. A drizzle of caramel sauce on top adds a rich sweetness. You can also sprinkle some extra nuts for crunch. These simple additions elevate your dessert experience.
Variations
Gluten-Free Option
You can easily make this apple crisp gluten-free. Just swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend. Look for blends that are designed for baking. These blends work well and keep the texture nice.
Flavor Enhancements
Want to boost the flavor? Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the apple mix. This simple step makes a big difference. You can also try different spices. Ginger, allspice, or cardamom add warmth and depth to the dish. Play around to find your favorite mix.
Fruit Combinations
Don’t just stick to apples! You can mix in other fruits for fun. Berries like blueberries or raspberries pair nicely with apples. Peaches and pears also add sweetness. These combinations make the dish even more exciting and tasty!
Storage Info
Short Term Storage
To store your apple crisp in the fridge, let it cool first. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This keeps the crisp fresh and moist. It will last up to four days in the fridge. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply remove the cover.
Long Term Storage
For long term storage, freezing is a great option. After it cools, portion the apple crisp into airtight containers. You can also wrap it in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. This prevents freezer burn. It can stay frozen for up to three months. Just label the containers with the date.
Reheating Tips
To reheat your apple crisp, you can use the oven or microwave. For the oven, set it to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until warm. If using the microwave, place a portion on a plate. Heat it for about 30 seconds to 1 minute. Be careful; it can get hot quickly!
FAQs
Can I use other types of apples?
Yes, you can! Besides Granny Smith apples, you can use Honeycrisp or Fuji apples. These apples add sweetness and balance well with the spices. If you prefer a less tart taste, choose Golden Delicious apples. Each apple type gives a unique flavor and texture to your crisp.
How can I make the topping crunchier?
To achieve a crunchier topping, use cold butter instead of melted butter. This helps create larger crumbs as the butter melts during baking. Also, add a bit more oats for texture. Baking the crisp longer, until golden brown, enhances the crunchiness, too. Just keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
What can I substitute for walnuts?
If you want a nut-free option, use sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds. Both add a nice crunch without nuts. You can also skip the nuts entirely and still enjoy a tasty topping. If you like, add some extra oats or a sprinkle of coconut for added texture.
We explored how to make a delicious apple crumble, focusing on key ingredients like Granny Smith apples, brown sugar, and spices. I shared easy steps, helpful tips, and fun variations to make this dessert your own. Remember, the right apples and topping can really shine. Whether you serve it warm with ice cream or store it for later, this treat is sure to please. Enjoy creating your perfect apple crumble!
