Perfect for solo diners and zero-waste baking
This single-serving apple crisp eliminates leftovers entirely! Baked in a ramekin, it's ready in 10 minutes with just 6 ingredients. Perfect for solo meals, dorm rooms, or busy weeknights.
Forget about overcomplicated baking projects! This 10-minute apple crisp recipe delivers a warm, gooey dessert with minimal effort. No more cutting up apples for 8 people when you're alone - just one perfect portion in a ramekin.
The crumble topping combines oats, butter, and maple syrup for a sweet, crunchy texture. The apples caramelize beautifully in the ramekin, and the maple glaze adds a professional touch. Best of all, you won't waste a single bite!
Ideal for fall baking, this recipe works in dorm kitchens, college apartments, or any situation where you need a personal dessert. The compact ramekin format means no messy cleanup after baking.
Whether you're celebrating a solo coffee break or a cozy movie night, this apple crisp will satisfy your sweet tooth in minutes. Let's make that perfect single-serving dessert!
Why This Recipe Works
Zero Waste
Each serving uses exact measurements - no leftover ingredients or baked goods. Perfect for single diners who hate food waste.
Quick Baking
Ready in just 10 minutes! No need to wait for the oven to preheat - the ramekin heats up instantly.
Portion Control
The ramekin format ensures perfect single-serving size without overeating. No temptation to second helpings!
Easy Cleanup
Bake directly in the ramekin you'll serve from! No transferring to plates or messy cleanup.
Single-Serving Apple Crisp Recipe
Perfect for solo diners and zero-waste baking
Ingredients
- - 1 cup sliced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- - 2 tbsp rolled oats
- - 1 tbsp butter, melted
- - 1 tbsp brown sugar
- - 1 tsp maple syrup
- - 1/4 tsp cinnamon
Instructions
Prepare Ramekin: Brush inside with melted butter. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
💡 Use a 4-ounce ceramic ramekin for perfect baking
Mix Crumble: In small bowl, combine oats, butter, brown sugar, cinnamon.
💡 Use a fork to mash until crumbly mixture forms
Layer Apples: Toss apple slices with maple syrup, then place in ramekin.
💡 Add a pinch of salt for better caramelization
Add Topping: Spread crumble mixture evenly over apples.
💡 Press topping lightly for even baking
Bake: Place ramekin on baking sheet. Bake 10 minutes until golden.
💡 Check for doneness with toothpick
Nutrition (per serving):
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Apples
Use firm apples for best texture. Granny Smith adds tartness, while Honeycrisp adds sweetness.
Substitutions: Pears, peaches, or frozen apple slices
Oats
Rolled oats provide the best crumb texture. Quick oats will make topping too fine.
Substitutions: Almond flour, crushed graham crackers
Butter
Adds richness to both topping and apples. Coconut oil works for vegan version.
Substitutions: Olive oil, vegan butter
Maple Syrup
Creates sweet caramelized apples. Honey or brown sugar can be used instead.
Substitutions: Agave nectar, corn syrup
Pro Tips for Perfect Apple Crisp
Portion Control
Use 4-ounce ramekins for perfect single-serving size. No temptation to overeat!
Make-Ahead Tip
Prepare ramekin up to 24 hours ahead. Cover and refrigerate until baking day.
Serving Tip
Let crisp rest 5 minutes before serving - topping firms up for easier eating.
Variations
Add walnuts, pecans, or raisins for extra flavor. Try different spices like nutmeg or cardamom.
Variations & Customizations
Vegan Version
Use vegan butter and maple syrup. Add a sprinkle of flaxseed for extra nutrition.
Gluten-Free
Use certified gluten-free oats and check that maple syrup is gluten-free.
Protein Boost
Mix protein powder into crumble topping for added nutrition.
Spiced Version
Add 1/4 tsp cinnamon and 1/8 tsp nutmeg to the crumble mixture.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
🍽️ Best Served With:
- Vanilla ice cream - classic pairing with warm apple crisp
- Coffee or chai tea - perfect for cozy fall afternoons
- Cranberry sauce - adds tart contrast to sweetness
🍷 Drink Pairings:
Serve with spiced chai tea, apple cider, or a dessert wine like Riesling.
Make-Ahead Instructions & Storage
Make-Ahead Tips
Prepare ramekins up to 24 hours in advance. Store covered in refrigerator until baking day.
Refrigerator Storage
Store baked ramekins in airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in oven at 350°F for 5 minutes.
Freezer Storage
Freeze unbaked ramekins for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding 2-3 minutes to baking time.
Reheating Instructions
Microwave for 30-45 seconds to warm up quickly. For best results, use oven method.
Troubleshooting & Common Questions
Q: Why is my topping not crispy?
A: Make sure oven is fully preheated. Press topping firmly in ramekin before baking.
Q: Can I use frozen apples?
A: Yes, but drain excess moisture first. Frozen apples may take 1-2 extra minutes to bake.
Q: How to prevent apples from browning?
A: Toss with lemon juice (1/4 tsp) before baking. Store covered in refrigerator.
Q: Can I double this recipe?
A: Yes! Use two ramekins and bake simultaneously. Cooking time remains same.
Final Thoughts
This single-serving apple crisp is the perfect solution for solo diners who want to enjoy a homemade dessert without leftovers. With just 5 minutes prep and 10 minutes baking, you'll have a warm, comforting treat ready in time for your coffee break.
The ramekin format makes this recipe ideal for dorm rooms, college apartments, or any situation where portion control matters. No more cutting up apples for a family recipe when you're alone! This recipe is also excellent for meal prepping - make a batch of ramekins to freeze and enjoy throughout the fall season.
