There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, sweet, and slightly crispy dessert straight from the oven. Old Fashioned Apple Crisp checks all those boxes and then some. With tender spiced apples beneath a golden, buttery topping, this nostalgic treat brings cozy vibes to any table. It’s one of those feel-good desserts that always brings a smile.
Did you know apple crisps date back to colonial America? This recipe has stood the test of time, and for good reason—it’s simple, satisfying, and incredibly versatile. It’s a breeze to make and a delight to eat. If you loved our classic Peach Cobbler, you’re going to fall head over heels for this apple crisp. So grab your favorite apples and let’s get baking!
What is Old Fashioned Apple Crisp?
Why is it called “Old Fashioned Apple Crisp” anyway? Well, for starters, it’s been around for generations, winning hearts with its rustic charm. No fancy gadgets or exotic ingredients—just a humble mix of apples, spices, and a crumbly topping that makes your house smell like a bakery.
Some say it’s named for the crispy top that forms as it bakes, while others believe it’s because it never goes out of style. Either way, it’s proof that the way to a man’s (or anyone’s) heart is truly through their stomach. Ready to see what the fuss is about? Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Apple Crisp Recipe
The main star of the show is, of course, the apples—sweet, tart, and juicy, they turn delightfully tender under a golden crisp topping. This recipe is the definition of comfort food and will fill your kitchen with the cozy aroma of cinnamon and baked fruit.
Not only is it more affordable than store-bought or bakery desserts, but making it at home means you get to control the ingredients and tweak it to your taste. Want it a little less sweet? Go for it. Love cinnamon? Add an extra dash!
And let’s talk about that topping—crumbly, buttery, and just the right amount of sweet. It’s like a cookie married a pie and gave us the perfect dessert. If you enjoyed our Cinnamon Roll Bake, this one is going to be your new favorite. Try it once and you’ll be hooked!
How to Make Apple Crisp at Home
Quick Overview
This easy apple crisp recipe comes together in about 15 minutes of prep and bakes in 30-40 minutes. It’s perfect for a weeknight dessert, a holiday gathering, or just because you’re craving something sweet and homey. The crispy topping, cinnamon-kissed apples, and melt-in-your-mouth texture make it irresistibly good.
Ingredients:
- 5-6 cups peeled and sliced apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or your favorite variety)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 unbeaten egg
- 1/3 cup melted butter
Step-by-Step:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray a 9 x 9 inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Arrange the peeled and sliced apples evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- In a medium bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and unbeaten egg until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Sprinkle the crumb mixture evenly over the apples.
- Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the crumb layer.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the apples are fork-tender and the topping is golden brown.
What to Serve Apple Crisp With
Apple crisp pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For an extra indulgent touch, drizzle with caramel sauce or serve alongside a hot cup of coffee or chai tea. If you’re feeling festive, pair it with a spiced cider or mulled wine for a cozy seasonal treat.
Top Tips for Perfecting Apple Crisp
- Choose the right apples: A mix of tart and sweet varieties adds depth. Try Granny Smith for tartness and Honeycrisp or Fuji for sweetness.
- Don’t overmix the topping: You want crumbly bits, not a dough. Light mixing gives you that perfect crispy texture.
- Add nuts or oats: For an extra crunch, toss in some chopped walnuts or rolled oats into the topping.
- Try different spices: Nutmeg or allspice can give your crisp a warm flavor twist.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Leftover apple crisp can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place a portion in the microwave for about 30-60 seconds or warm in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes to re-crisp the topping. You can also freeze it—just wrap tightly in foil and store for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as needed.
FAQs
Can I use canned apples or pie filling? Yes, but fresh apples provide a better texture and flavor. If using pie filling, reduce the added sugar in the topping.
Can I make this gluten-free? Absolutely! Swap the flour with your favorite gluten-free baking mix.
What are the best apples for baking? Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, Fuji, and Braeburn are all excellent choices.
Can I double the recipe? Yes! Just use a 9×13 inch pan and adjust the baking time slightly.
Conclusion
Whether you’re craving a nostalgic dessert or looking for a simple crowd-pleaser, Old Fashioned Apple Crisp is the perfect answer. With its warm flavors and crunchy topping, it’s a recipe that brings people together. Try it once and it’s sure to become a staple in your dessert rotation. Happy baking!
Ingredients
- 5–6 cups peeled and sliced apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or your favorite variety)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 unbeaten egg
- 1/3 cup melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and spray a 9×9 inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
- Arrange sliced apples evenly in the bottom of the dish.
- In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and unbeaten egg until crumbly.
- Sprinkle crumb mixture evenly over the apples.
- Drizzle melted butter over the topping.
- Bake for 30–40 minutes, until apples are tender and the topping is golden brown.
Notes
Use a mix of apple varieties for depth of flavor. Add oats or chopped nuts to the topping for extra texture. Serve warm with ice cream or whipped cream.