Apple Crisp with Oats

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Golden, bubbling, and brimming with warm spices, this Apple Crisp with Oats is the ultimate cozy dessert. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday table or simply indulging on a quiet evening, every bite delivers the comforting taste of tender apples, crunchy oat topping, and hints of cinnamon and brown sugar.

Topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of caramel, this classic dessert becomes an unforgettable treat. It’s rustic, homey, and doesn’t require a pie crust—making it so much easier and just as satisfying.

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Why You’ll Love This Apple Crisp with Oats

This dessert is the perfect blend of simplicity and indulgence. It comes together with pantry staples and transforms them into something magical. The apples soften into a luscious filling while the oat crumble turns golden and crisp, creating an irresistible contrast in textures. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free if you use certified GF oats!

Whether you’re a beginner baker or a seasoned pro, this is one of those no-fail desserts that always impresses. And bonus: your kitchen will smell absolutely amazing while it bakes.

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What Kind of Apples Should I Use?

For a well-balanced apple crisp, it’s best to use a mix of tart and sweet apples. Granny Smith adds the perfect tang and firmness, while Honeycrisp or Fuji provides natural sweetness and juiciness. Avoid apples that turn mushy when baked like Red Delicious.

Using a variety keeps the flavor interesting and gives you that perfect mix of tender and slightly crisp bites in the filling.

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Ingredients for the Apple Crisp with Oats

To create the ultimate apple crisp, each ingredient plays a vital role. Here’s what you need and why it matters:

• Apples – The star of the dish. Choose a combination of tart and sweet varieties for depth of flavor and the best texture.
• Brown Sugar – Adds rich sweetness and a slight molasses flavor that complements the apples beautifully.
• Granulated Sugar – Balances the tartness of the apples and boosts the overall sweetness.
• Ground Cinnamon – Brings a warm, spiced note that makes the crisp irresistibly fragrant.
• Nutmeg – A pinch adds complexity and enhances the cinnamon.
• Lemon Juice – Helps brighten the flavor and prevents the apples from browning.
• Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats – Create that signature crumbly topping with a toasty texture.
• All-Purpose Flour – Binds the crumble and helps it crisp up in the oven.
• Unsalted Butter – Melted into the topping, it adds richness and ensures a golden crust.
• Salt – Just a pinch enhances all the other flavors.

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How To Make the Apple Crisp with Oats

Step 1: Prep the Apples

Peel, core, and slice your apples evenly. Toss them in a large mixing bowl with granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice until well coated. Spread the mixture in a buttered baking dish.

Step 2: Mix the Crumble Topping

In another bowl, combine the oats, flour, brown sugar, and salt. Add the melted butter and stir until crumbly and evenly coated.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

Sprinkle the oat topping over the apples in an even layer. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the apple filling is bubbling.

Step 4: Cool Slightly Before Serving

Let the crisp cool for 10-15 minutes to allow the filling to set. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce if you’re feeling extra indulgent.

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How to Serve and Store Apple Crisp with Oats

This Apple Crisp with Oats is best served warm straight from the oven, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The contrast between the warm, spiced apple filling and the cool creaminess makes it absolutely divine.

This recipe feeds 6 to 8 people, making it a great dessert for family dinners or casual gatherings.

To store leftovers, let the crisp cool completely, then cover and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave or warm the entire dish in a 325°F oven until heated through. For best texture, avoid freezing as the topping can become soggy.

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What to Serve With Apple Crisp?

Vanilla Ice Cream

A classic pairing. The creaminess and chill of the ice cream complement the warm apple filling perfectly.

Caramel Sauce

Drizzle some homemade or store-bought caramel sauce for an extra layer of decadence.

Whipped Cream

Light and airy whipped cream adds a soft, cloud-like contrast to the crispy oat topping.

Spiced Chai Latte

Warm up with a cozy chai latte that echoes the spices in the dessert.

Salted Nuts

A small bowl of toasted pecans or walnuts on the side brings a nutty crunch.

Sharp Cheddar Cheese

An old-fashioned twist—a slice of sharp cheddar melts beautifully over warm apple desserts.

Maple Syrup

A drizzle of maple syrup enhances the earthy sweetness of the crisp.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats?
Yes, but the texture will be softer and less chewy. Old-fashioned oats hold up better during baking and give you that signature crispy topping.

2. What are the best apples to use for apple crisp?
A mix of tart and sweet apples works best. Try Granny Smith with Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Braeburn for balanced flavor and texture.

3. Can I make this apple crisp ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and topping separately, store them in the fridge, then assemble and bake just before serving.

4. How do I make it gluten-free?
Just use certified gluten-free oats and substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1:1 flour blend. It turns out just as delicious.

5. What can I use instead of butter?
Coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute works well for a dairy-free version. Just keep in mind the flavor might be slightly different.

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Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go with classic vanilla ice cream, or add your own twist?
I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other bake smarter.

Find more comforting dessert ideas on my Life With Livia Pinterest.

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Conclusion

Apple Crisp with Oats is more than just a dessert—it’s a warm hug in a bowl. The combination of tender apples and golden oat topping makes it a staple that never fails to please. Whether you’re sharing it during the holidays or enjoying a quiet night in, this recipe brings cozy vibes and sweet satisfaction every time.

Try it once, and it just might become your go-to comfort dessert.

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