Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or cozy nights
These Apple Crisp in a Jar are a game-changer for portable desserts. Imagine warm, golden jars filled with tender apples, cinnamon, and a buttery oat topping, all in a single serving. They’re perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a cozy night in with a dollop of Greek yogurt.
This recipe transforms classic apple crisp into a make-ahead, individual-sized treat. The jars keep everything fresh and make serving a breeze. Plus, the rustic mason jars add a charming touch to any table.
The best part? You can prepare these jars in advance and bake them just before serving. The combination of warm apples, crunchy topping, and tangy Greek yogurt is pure fall comfort in a portable package.
Whether you’re hosting a picnic or looking for an easy dessert to share, these apple crisp jars are sure to impress. They’re also a hit with kids and adults alike!
Why This Recipe Works
⏰ Quick & Easy
Ready in 35 minutes with just 6 ingredients. No special equipment needed!
💰 Affordable
Costs less than $1 per serving with pantry staples like oats and cinnamon.
👥 Versatile
Serve warm with yogurt or chilled as a salad topper. Perfect for any occasion.
🌟 Visually Stunning
Clear jars showcase the layers of apples and topping. Ideal for Instagram-worthy platters.
Apple Crisp in a Jar
Portable mini desserts for picnics and potlucks
🛒 Ingredients
- - 6 cups thinly sliced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- - 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- - 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- - 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- - 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- - 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- - 1 cup rolled oats
- - 1/4 cup brown sugar
- - 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- - 6 (8-ounce) mason jars with lids
- - Greek yogurt (for serving)
- - Honey (optional garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
Prepare Jars: Wash and dry mason jars. Place jars on a baking sheet to catch any drips during baking.
💡 Tip: Preheat oven to 350°F while you prepare the jars.
Make Apple Filling: In a large bowl, toss sliced apples with 1/4 cup sugar, flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set aside.
💡 Tip: Use tart apples like Granny Smith for best texture and flavor.
Make Crumble Topping: In another bowl, mix oats, 1/4 cup sugar, melted butter, vanilla, and 1/4 tsp cinnamon.
💡 Tip: For extra crunch, refrigerate the topping for 10 minutes before layering.
Layer Jars: In each jar, add 1 cup apple mixture, 2 tbsp crumble topping, and repeat. Finish with a 1/2-inch layer of topping.
💡 Tip: Press the apples gently into the jars to avoid air gaps.
Bake: Cover jars with lids (not tightened). Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden and bubbly.
💡 Tip: Remove jars from oven when the topping is golden brown but not burnt.
Chill & Serve: Cool completely, then refrigerate. Serve warm or chilled with a dollop of Greek yogurt.
💡 Tip: Add a drizzle of honey for extra sweetness.
Nutrition (per serving):
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Apples
Use firm, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best balance of flavor and texture.
Substitutions: Pears or tart cherries for a twist.
Oats
Rolled oats provide a chewy texture. Quick oats will make the topping more crumbly.
Substitutions: Almond flour or crushed graham crackers for a gluten-free option.
Greek Yogurt
Adds a tangy contrast to the sweet apple filling. Full-fat yogurt is best for richness.
Substitutions: Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
Honey
Enhances sweetness and adds a glossy finish. Use maple syrup for a vegan version.
Substitutions: Caramel sauce or brown sugar glaze.
Pro Tips for Perfect Apple Crisp in a Jar
🍎 Apple Prep
Toss apples with lemon juice (1 tsp per 2 cups) to prevent browning before layering.
🔥 Baking Hack
Place jars on the middle oven rack for even heating. Rotate halfway through baking for uniform browning.
🧈 Butter Tip
Use cold butter in the crumble topping for a flakier texture. Cut it into small cubes before mixing.
🧊 Make-Ahead
Assemble jars up to 24 hours in advance. Cover with parchment paper until ready to bake.
Variations & Customizations
Spiced Pumpkin Jar
Replace apples with pumpkin puree, add 1 tsp pumpkin spice, and top with a dollop of whipped cream.
Chocolate-Dipped Jar
Drizzle melted dark chocolate over cooled jars. Sprinkle with sea salt or crushed nuts.
Mini Jar Parfait
Use 4-ounce jars for bite-sized versions. Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream in each jar before serving.
Tropical Twist
Substitute apples with mango chunks and pineapple. Use coconut flakes in the crumble topping.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
🍽️ Best Served With:
- Warm spiced cider or cinnamon coffee for a cozy fall pairing
- Vanilla ice cream for an extra-rich dessert
- Apple pie slices for a double dose of autumn flavor
🍷 Drink Pairings:
Pair with a buttery Chardonnay or a crisp Riesling to complement the apple flavors.
Make-Ahead Instructions & Storage
Make-Ahead Tips
Assemble jars up to 24 hours in advance. Store covered in the fridge until ready to bake.
Refrigerator Storage
Store baked jars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat in the microwave for 30 seconds before serving.
Freezer Storage
Freeze unbaked jars for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding 5-7 minutes to the cooking time.
Reheating Instructions
Reheat in the oven at 300°F for 10-15 minutes for optimal texture. Avoid microwave use for reheating as it can make the topping soggy.
Troubleshooting & Common Questions
Q: Can I use pre-sliced apples?
A: Yes, but toss them with lemon juice immediately after slicing to prevent browning.
Q: Why is my crumble topping too dry?
A: The butter may have been too cold. Let the mixture sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before layeringing.
Q: Can I use glass jars from other products?
A: Yes, as long as they are oven-safe. Check jar lids for proper sealing after baking.
Q: How do I prevent the apples from becoming too runny?
A: Don’t over-toss the apple mixture with sugar. Let the jars sit for 10 minutes before baking to allow excess moisture to drain.
Final Thoughts
Apple Crisp in a Jar is more than just a dessert—it’s a portable, shareable experience that brings people together. Whether you’re packing a picnic, hosting a potluck, or simply enjoying a cozy night in, these jars are sure to delight with their perfect balance of sweet, tart, and crunch.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility and charm. From the rustic mason jars to the customizable toppings, every element invites creativity and personalization. So, grab your jars, slice those apples, and let the magic of fall baking begin!
