It was a cool fall afternoon when I first made this easy apple crisp. The scent of warm cinnamon and baked apples filled my little kitchen, wrapping me in comfort. Every bite reminded me of cozy evenings at home, a soft blanket on my lap, and a mug of cider nearby. If you’re craving something simple yet satisfying, this easy apple crisp will quickly become your go-to.
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Why You’ll Love This Easy Apple Crisp
This easy apple crisp brings together simple ingredients that you probably already have. The tender apples contrast beautifully with the golden, buttery oat topping. It’s perfect for fall, but honestly, I make it year-round when I need a warm, sweet treat.
Also, this dessert bakes in just under an hour, so you can have a lovely homemade dessert without fuss. You’ll appreciate how the cinnamon and apples blend together for a flavor that feels timeless. Best of all, it’s simple enough for beginner bakers.
Best Apples for Apple Crisp
You can use many apple varieties for this easy apple crisp. I love using Golden Delicious because they soften nicely while still holding shape. Granny Smith apples work well too, bringing a tart note that balances the sweetness.
However, mixing varieties can add depth to your crisp. For example, combining Fuji with Granny Smith creates a lovely sweet-tart balance. Next time you shop, try a blend and see what tastes best to you.
Do You Need to Peel the Apples?
Peeling the apples is optional for this easy apple crisp. If you want a smoother texture, go ahead and peel them. However, I often leave the skins on because they add a rustic feel and extra nutrients.
If you decide not to peel, just be sure to wash the apples thoroughly. Either way, this recipe is forgiving, and your crisp will turn out delicious every time.
How to Make Easy Apple Crisp
Prepare the Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Then, butter or spray an 8×8 baking dish so nothing sticks.
Make the Apple Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine your chopped apples with granulated sugar, ¾ teaspoon cinnamon, and lemon juice. Next, pour the apple mixture into the prepared baking dish.
Make the Crisp Topping
In another bowl, combine brown sugar, oats, flour, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, salt, and diced butter. Use a pastry cutter or forks to work the butter into the mixture until you have pea-sized crumbs.
Assemble and Bake
Spread the crisp topping evenly over the apples. Gently pat it down to help it bake into a lovely crust. Then bake for 40-50 minutes until golden brown and bubbling around the edges.
I love serving this warm with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
You can make this easy apple crisp ahead. Bake as directed, cool, then refrigerate overnight. Reheat at 350°F for about 30 minutes.
Also, while I haven’t tested freezing it, some readers have had success freezing baked apple crisp and reheating when needed.
Leftovers stay fresh for 2-3 days in the fridge. Just cover tightly and enjoy warmed or cold.
Easy Apple Crisp Recipe Card
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Easy Apple Crisp Recipe (Simple & Delicious)
- Total Time: 60
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
A warm, comforting dessert with tender apples and a buttery cinnamon-oat topping. Perfect for fall or any cozy evening.
Ingredients
6 golden delicious apples, peeled and chopped (about 6–7 cups)
2 Tbsp granulated sugar
3/4 tsp ground cinnamon (for apples)
1 1/2 tsp lemon juice
1 cup light brown sugar (for topping)
3/4 cup old fashioned oats
3/4 cup all-purpose flour (for topping)
1 tsp ground cinnamon (for topping)
Pinch of kosher salt
1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, diced into small cubes
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F and butter or spray an 8×8 baking dish.
2. In a bowl, combine chopped apples, granulated sugar, 3/4 tsp cinnamon, and lemon juice. Transfer to dish.
3. In a separate bowl, combine brown sugar, oats, flour, 1 tsp cinnamon, salt, and diced butter. Cut butter into mixture until crumbs form.
4. Spread topping evenly over apples and gently pat down.
5. Bake 40-50 minutes until golden and bubbly.
6. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream if desired.
Notes
Any apple variety works; try Granny Smith for tartness.
Peeling apples is optional; wash thoroughly if leaving skins on.
Optionally add a bit of flour to apple mixture to reduce juices.
Baking times may vary slightly depending on your oven.
Make-ahead: bake, cool, refrigerate overnight; reheat at 350°F for 30 minutes.
Freezing: not tested, but some readers report success.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 45
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of crisp
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 32g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Related Recipes to Try
If you love comforting desserts, you might also enjoy my ultimate apple crisp recipe for an extra-cozy twist.
You can also check out this easy pumpkin pie recipe for another fall classic.
For a chocolate fix, try my soft chocolate chip cookies, or indulge in my french silk brownies recipe next time you bake.
FAQ
How long does apple crisp take to make?
Apple crisp takes about 40-50 minutes to bake. If you include prep time, plan on about an hour total.
Why does my apple crisp get soggy?
Sometimes apple crisp turns soggy if the apples release too much juice. You can sprinkle a bit of flour into the apple mixture before baking to help thicken those juices.
How long will apple crisp stay fresh?
Apple crisp will stay fresh for 2-3 days in the fridge. Store it tightly covered and reheat gently when ready to enjoy again.
How to know when apple crisp is cooked?
Your apple crisp is done when the topping is golden brown and you see the juices bubbling around the edges. The apples should be tender when pierced with a fork.
You can always visit my Pinterest page for more cozy dessert inspiration too!
