Easy Apple Crisp

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Warm, gooey, and full of sweet cinnamon flavor, this Easy Apple Crisp is the perfect dessert for cozy nights or quick get-togethers. It brings together tender baked apples with a buttery oat topping that’s golden and crisp, all bubbling under a scoop of melting vanilla ice cream. The best part? You don’t need any fancy ingredients or pie crust skills to pull it off.

Whether you’re baking for a holiday crowd, a Sunday family dinner, or just a fall-inspired treat, this recipe delivers maximum comfort with minimal effort. It’s a foolproof dessert that always gets rave reviews, and it comes together in under an hour from start to finish.

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Why You’ll Love This Easy Apple Crisp

This dessert hits all the right notes—it’s easy to make, tastes amazing warm or cold, and makes your kitchen smell incredible. Here’s why it deserves a spot in your baking rotation:

• No pie crust needed—just simple layering
• Made with pantry staples
• Great for making ahead
• Easily doubled for crowds
• Perfect texture combo of soft fruit and crunchy topping

If you love apple pie but want something quicker and easier, this is your go-to recipe.

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What Kind of Apples Should I Use?

The best crisps use a mix of apples for balanced sweetness and texture. Go for a combo like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp or Fuji for the best results. Granny Smith adds tartness and holds its shape, while sweeter varieties bring the natural sugar and juiciness that makes every bite sing.

Avoid overly soft apples like Red Delicious—they break down too much during baking and can turn mushy instead of tender.

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Ingredients for the Easy Apple Crisp

This recipe is built on simple ingredients you probably already have on hand. Each one plays a part in creating the ultimate warm and cozy dessert:

• Apples – The foundation of the crisp. Peeled and sliced, they provide a sweet-tart filling that softens beautifully in the oven.
• Granulated Sugar – Adds just the right touch of sweetness to balance the apples’ natural flavor.
• Cinnamon – A must-have spice that brings out the warmth and coziness in the apples.
• Lemon Juice – Prevents the apples from browning and enhances the brightness of the filling.
• Old-Fashioned Oats – Key for that crisp, chewy topping texture. They toast up golden and nutty.
• All-Purpose Flour – Helps bind the topping together and adds structure.
• Brown Sugar – Gives the topping its deep caramel flavor and extra richness.
• Unsalted Butter – Melted into the topping for buttery, crunchy bites in every spoonful.
• Salt – A pinch brings out all the other flavors and keeps the dessert from tasting flat.

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How To Make the Easy Apple Crisp

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

Peel, core, and slice your apples into even pieces. Toss them with granulated sugar, lemon juice, and cinnamon. Layer this mixture into a greased baking dish.

Step 2: Make the Crisp Topping

In a separate bowl, mix oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Stir in melted butter until crumbly and well combined.

Step 3: Layer and Bake

Sprinkle the oat topping evenly over the apple mixture. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the apples are bubbling underneath.

Step 4: Cool and Serve

Let the crisp cool for 10 minutes before serving. This gives the juices time to thicken slightly. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

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How to Serve and Store Easy Apple Crisp

This apple crisp is best enjoyed warm, right out of the oven, when the topping is still perfectly crunchy and the apples are soft and juicy. Serve it in bowls with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream or a swirl of whipped cream. For an extra treat, drizzle some caramel sauce over the top!

This recipe serves about 6 people, making it great for family desserts or small dinner parties.

To store leftovers, let the crisp cool completely, then cover and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the whole dish in a 300°F oven for 10–15 minutes to revive the crispy topping.

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What to Serve With Easy Apple Crisp?

Vanilla Ice Cream

The classic pairing—melts into the warm crisp for the ultimate contrast in texture and temperature.

Salted Caramel Sauce

A drizzle takes the dessert to the next level with added richness.

Whipped Cream

Light and fluffy, it adds a creamy finish without overwhelming the warm spices.

Chai Tea or Spiced Cider

Perfect fall drinks to sip alongside each warm bite.

Cheddar Cheese (Yes, Really!)

A sharp cheddar slice on warm apple crisp is an old-school twist that actually works.

Maple Glazed Pecans

Add a nutty crunch and even more fall flavor to your dessert.

Pumpkin Spice Latte

Stay seasonal and cozy with this comforting drink pairing.

Espresso or Black Coffee

Helps balance the sweetness and rounds out a comforting meal.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other fruits in this crisp?

Yes! You can swap or mix apples with pears, berries, or even peaches. Just adjust the sugar slightly depending on how sweet your fruit is.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely. Just use a gluten-free flour blend in the topping and ensure your oats are certified gluten-free.

Should I peel the apples?

Peeling is recommended for a smooth, soft texture. But if you like a bit of chew and rustic feel, you can leave the skins on.

How do I prevent a soggy topping?

Make sure your topping is well mixed and your oven fully preheated. Baking uncovered allows it to crisp up beautifully.

Can I freeze apple crisp?

Yes. Bake it first, cool completely, then cover and freeze. Reheat in the oven until warm and crispy again.

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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 try it with different fruits? Add nuts to the topping?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other bake smarter.

Find more cozy recipes like this on my Pinterest: Life With Livia Pinterest

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Conclusion

This Easy Apple Crisp is the kind of dessert that never goes out of style. It’s simple, nostalgic, and always hits the spot—especially when served warm with ice cream. Whether you’re baking for the holidays or just a regular Tuesday night, this recipe brings comfort and joy in every spoonful.

From the golden oat topping to the tender, cinnamon-kissed apples, it’s everything you love about fall in one easy dish. Make it once, and you’ll be hooked!

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