Imagine this: a warm bowl of old-fashioned easy apple crisp topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream slowly melting on top. Color me excited! You could also pair it with a dollop of whipped cream or even some Greek yogurt for a creamy contrast.
If you’re feeling adventurous, a sprinkle of caramel sauce adds a delightful sweetness. Want something a bit tart? Top it with fresh cranberries for a twist that won’t disappoint.
Adding a cup of hot cider or a steaming mug of coffee will round out this cozy dessert experience. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you.
What is Old Fashioned Easy Apple Crisp?
Old-fashioned apple crisp combines the delightful textures and flavors of spiced apples and a crumbly topping made with oats. Served warm, the sweet and tart apples meld beautifully with the crispy topping.
It’s not just a dessert; it’s a hug on a plate. This dish is about simplicity—using basic ingredients to create something truly comforting.
Picture the scene: an autumn afternoon, golden leaves falling, and the smell of cinnamon wafting through the kitchen. That’s the magic of apple crisp!
What is the Flavor Profile of This Dish?
If I could summarize the flavor profile in three words, it would be sweet, tart, and crunchy. The apples provide a beautiful balance of sweetness and acidity, while the spices—mostly cinnamon—add warmth.
The topping? It’s a delightful crunch that contrasts with the soft, juicy apples. A hint of vanilla brings everything together.
Each bite is an adventure—some are savory, others, sweet, and every spoonful transports you to memories of cool fall evenings.
What Makes This Recipe Different from Other Old Fashioned Easy Apple Crisps?
Many apple crisp recipes tend to overthink things. The beauty of my version is in its simplicity. I focus on freshness and the core ingredients. No fancy spices or complicated steps.
Everything here is straightforward, making it a beginner-friendly dish. This recipe also emphasizes texture—think a perfectly crisp topping paired with soft apples rather than mushy filling.
It highlights the apples themselves, allowing their natural flavors to shine through.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Spiced Apples:
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar – To enhance the apples’ natural sweetness.
- 6 Golden Delicious apples – Peeled and chopped. Golden Delicious brings a lovely sweet-tart flavor.
- 1½ teaspoons fresh lemon juice – This adds brightness and prevents the apples from browning.
- ¾ teaspoon ground cinnamon – A classic spice for warmth.
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional) – This adds depth.
For the Crisp Topping:
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour – Acts as the base for the topping.
- ¾ cup old-fashioned oats – They add heartiness and crunch.
- 1 cup light brown sugar – For sweetness and a hint of caramel flavor.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Because we can’t get enough cinnamon.
- Pinch of kosher salt – Enhances all the flavors.
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional) – Offers a touch of additional warmth.
- ½ cup cold unsalted butter, cubed – This creates that irresistible crispiness.
Step by Step Directions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Let’s get that kitchen toasty!
Step 2: Prepare the Apples
In a large bowl, combine the chopped apples, lemon juice, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Toss them until every apple slice is coated. You should see a shimmer of citrus and sugar—that’s when you know you’re on the right track.
Step 3: Make the Crisp Topping
In another bowl, stir together the flour, oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and nutmeg. This mixture should feel like a warm blanket. Now, add the cold, cubed butter. Using your fingers or a pastry cutter, mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. You want clumps but not a paste. Remember, texture is key!
Step 4: Combine and Assemble
Take a baking dish—about 9×13 inches works perfectly. Spread the apple mixture evenly in the bottom. Then, sprinkle the crisp topping generously over the apples. Don’t be shy—get that topping nice and even!
Step 5: Bake the Crisp
Place the dish in your preheated oven. Let it bake for about 40-45 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the apples are bubbly. Pro tip: you’ll know it’s done when your kitchen smells heavenly.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Once removed from the oven, let the apple crisp cool for about 10-15 minutes. This helps the juices settle, making sure it’s not a runny mess when you dig in. Serve it warm, and don’t forget those toppings we talked about!
Tips on Making Old Fashioned Easy Apple Crisp
To elevate your crisp game, here are some handy tips:
- Use Mixed Apples: Combine sweet apples with tart ones like Granny Smith for a more complex flavor.
- Add a Crunch: Toss in nuts like walnuts or pecans for added texture in the topping.
- Experiment with Spices: Don’t be afraid to mix in ginger or allspice for a unique touch.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the apple mixture and topping separately. Bake it just before serving to impress guests.
- Serve It Right: Always serve it warm! The flavors come alive when it’s warm, especially with ice cream.
Nutrition Information
Curious about nutrition? Here’s a rough breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 180mg
- Carbohydrates: 51g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 24g
- Protein: 2g
This information can vary, especially if you decide to play around with the ingredients. Always a good idea to check!
How Can I Store This Old Fashioned Easy Apple Crisp?
Once you’ve wolfed down half of your apple crisp (no judgment here!), you can store the leftovers. Cover it tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap and keep it in the fridge.
It stays fresh for about 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, just reheat it in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Substitute Options for Ingredients
Running low on something? No problem! Here are a few solid alternatives:
- Butter: If you need a dairy-free option, use coconut oil or vegan margarine for a similar effect.
- Brown Sugar: Swap in coconut sugar or maple syrup for a different sweetness.
- Apples: If you can’t find Golden Delicious, use Fuji or Honeycrisp. Both offer excellent sweetness and flavor.
- Oats: For those avoiding gluten, try certified gluten-free oats or use crushed nuts instead.
Conclusion
Old-fashioned easy apple crisp is more than just a dessert; it’s a slice of nostalgia that warms the heart. From its simple ingredients to the comfort it brings, this recipe invites everyone to gather around the table.
By embracing the timeless flavors of cinnamon-spiced apples and enjoying the crunch of the topping, you tackle the perfect balance of textures and flavors.
Try it tonight for dinner, or whip it up for your next gathering. I’m sure your family and friends will love a homemade treat as delightful as this.
Remember, every bite of apple crisp is a reminder that life’s simple pleasures can be the sweetest. Happy baking!
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Old Fashioned Easy Apple Crisp Recipe – Easy Comfort Food Recipes
Description
Let’s dive into the world of desserts, shall we? It’s undeniable that few things bring as much comfort as a warm, homemade dessert fresh from the oven.
Old-fashioned easy apple crisp is a classic that’s stood the test of time. It’s simple to make, delicious, and brings back warm memories of family gatherings and crisp autumn days.
Today, I’m thrilled to share my take on this easy recipe. Brace yourself for some fun stories, fascinating facts, and a taste of nostalgia.
Ingredients
Spiced Apples:
Crisp Topping:
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
-
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Let’s get that kitchen toasty!
Step 2: Prepare the Apples
-
In a large bowl, combine the chopped apples, lemon juice, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Toss them until every apple slice is coated. You should see a shimmer of citrus and sugar—that’s when you know you’re on the right track.
Step 3: Make the Crisp Topping
-
In another bowl, stir together the flour, oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and nutmeg. This mixture should feel like a warm blanket. Now, add the cold, cubed butter. Using your fingers or a pastry cutter, mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. You want clumps but not a paste. Remember, texture is key!
Step 4: Combine and Assemble
-
Take a baking dish—about 9x13 inches works perfectly. Spread the apple mixture evenly in the bottom. Then, sprinkle the crisp topping generously over the apples. Don’t be shy—get that topping nice and even!
Step 5: Bake the Crisp
-
Place the dish in your preheated oven. Let it bake for about 40-45 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the apples are bubbly. Pro tip: you’ll know it’s done when your kitchen smells heavenly.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
-
Once removed from the oven, let the apple crisp cool for about 10-15 minutes. This helps the juices settle, making sure it’s not a runny mess when you dig in. Serve it warm, and don’t forget those toppings we talked about!
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 320kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 14g22%
- Saturated Fat 8g40%
- Cholesterol 30mg10%
- Sodium 180mg8%
- Total Carbohydrate 51g17%
- Dietary Fiber 4g16%
- Sugars 24g
- Protein 2g4%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Use Mixed Apples: Combine sweet apples with tart ones like Granny Smith for a more complex flavor.
- Add a Crunch: Toss in nuts like walnuts or pecans for added texture in the topping.
- Experiment with Spices: Don’t be afraid to mix in ginger or allspice for a unique touch.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the apple mixture and topping separately. Bake it just before serving to impress guests.
- Serve It Right: Always serve it warm! The flavors come alive when it’s warm, especially with ice cream.
