Perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in
Double the fruit, double the flavor! This easy 4-apple apple crisp layers Granny Smith and Fuji apples with a buttery oat crumble. Quick, cozy, and perfect for fall.
This recipe is ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or a comforting dessert after a long day. The combination of tart Granny Smith and sweet Fuji apples creates a balanced flavor, while the crumble topping adds a satisfying crunch.
With just 30 minutes of active time and minimal ingredients, it’s a no-fuss way to enjoy autumn’s best fruit. Plus, the make-ahead option lets you prepare ahead of time for stress-free serving.
The recipe’s simplicity doesn’t mean it sacrifices richness. The caramelized apples and golden crumble create a dessert that feels indulgent yet wholesome.
Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a quiet evening, this apple crisp brings warmth and joy to every bite.
Why This Recipe Works
⏰ Quick Prep
Ready in 30 minutes with no special equipment needed. Perfect for last-minute dessert cravings.
💰 Budget-Friendly
Uses pantry staples like oats and flour, with apples as the only fresh ingredient.
👥 Family-Friendly
Kids can help with mixing the crumble topping while adults prep the apples.
🌟 Flavor Power
Double the apples means double the flavor, with a perfect balance of tart and sweet.
4-Apple Apple Crisp
Double the fruit, double the flavor
🛒 Ingredients
- - 4 apples (2 Granny Smith, 2 Fuji), thinly sliced
- - 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- - 1/2 cup rolled oats
- - 1/2 cup brown sugar
- - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- - 1/4 teaspoon salt
- - Vanilla ice cream (for serving)
👨🍳 Instructions
Prep Apples: Thinly slice apples and place in a bowl. Toss with 1 tablespoon flour to prevent browning.
💡 Use a mandoline for even slices
Mix Topping: In a bowl, combine oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Cut in cold butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
💡 Add a handful of chopped walnuts for extra crunch
Assemble: Spread apple slices in a 9x9-inch baking dish. Sprinkle with 1 teaspoon cinnamon. Top with crumble mixture.
💡 For a golden crust, sprinkle with sugar before baking
Bake: Place in preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes until top is golden and bubbly.
💡 Cover with foil if top browns too quickly
Nutrition (per serving):
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Apples
Granny Smith adds tartness while Fuji provides sweetness. For a spiced twist, add a few slices of pie apple.
Substitutions: Honeycrisp or Braeburn apples
Oats
Rolled oats give the best texture. Quick oats can be used but will result in a denser topping.
Substitutions: Whole grain oats or almond flour for gluten-free
Butter
Cold butter creates a flaky texture. For vegan version, use coconut oil.
Substitutions: Margarine or olive oil
Brown Sugar
Adds depth and caramel flavor. Can substitute with coconut sugar or maple syrup.
Substitutions: Light brown sugar or honey
Pro Tips for Perfect Apple Crisp
🍎 Apple Selection
Use a mix of tart and sweet apples for balanced flavor. Avoid overly soft varieties like McIntosh.
❄️ Chilling Technique
Chill the crumble topping before baking to ensure it stays crumbly rather than greasy.
🔥 Baking Hack
Place the baking dish on the middle rack for even heat distribution and optimal browning.
🥛 Serving Suggestions
Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
Variations & Customizations
Spiced Apple Crisp
Add 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg and 1/4 teaspoon cardamom to the topping for warm fall flavors.
Mini Crisp Bites
Portion the mixture into ramekins for individual servings. Bake for 20-25 minutes.
Caramel Drizzle
Mix 1/4 cup caramel sauce into the crumble topping for a gooey surprise.
Vegan Version
Use vegan butter and substitute brown sugar with maple syrup for a plant-based option.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
🍽️ Best Served With:
- Vanilla ice cream with caramel swirl
- Warm spiced chai tea or cinnamon coffee
- Maple syrup drizzle for extra sweetness
🍷 Drink Pairings:
Pair with a buttery Chardonnay or a spiced cider for a cozy autumn meal.
Make-Ahead Instructions & Storage
Make-Ahead Tips
Prep the apple mixture and crumble topping separately up to 24 hours in advance. Store in airtight containers in the fridge.
Refrigerator Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.
Freezer Storage
Freeze unbaked crisp for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.
Reheating Instructions
For best results, reheat in the oven rather than the microwave to restore the crisp texture.
Troubleshooting & Common Questions
Q: Why is my topping not browning?
A: If the oven temperature is too low, the topping won’t brown. Use an oven thermometer to verify the temperature is correct.
Q: How to prevent apples from becoming too runny?
A: Don’t overmix the apple slices with liquid. Toss gently and use a mix of tart and sweet apples for better structure.
Q: Can I add other fruits?
A: Yes! Try adding pears or peaches for a seasonal twist. Adjust baking time as needed.
Q: How to store leftovers?
A: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Final Thoughts
This 4-apple apple crisp is a game-changer for anyone who loves classic desserts with a twist. The extra fruit means more flavor, more texture, and more joy in every bite. Whether you’re serving it at a fall gathering or enjoying it as a cozy dessert after a long day, this recipe delivers comfort and satisfaction in equal measure.
Don’t let the simplicity fool you—this dessert is anything but basic. The combination of Granny Smith and Fuji apples creates a perfect balance of tart and sweet, while the buttery oat crumble adds a rich, toasty finish. It’s the kind of dessert that brings people together, evoking memories of family kitchens and autumn afternoons.
