Mini 8×8 Apple Crisp in a Jar 🍂 – Portable Sweetness for Picnics - Perfect for On-the-Go Enjoyment!
Adorable mini apple crisps in 8×8 jars for picnics, potlucks, and portable desserts. Baked to golden perfection with a honey-oat crumble!
Imagine packing the cozy warmth of apple crisp into portable 8×8 jars that double as serving vessels! These mini apple crisps are perfect for picnics, potlucks, or cute dessert platters. With layers of tender apple slices, a honey-oat crumble, and a golden crust, they’re as adorable as they are delicious. Each jar is self-contained, so you can bake them in advance and serve straight from the jar—no messy transfer required! Whether you’re hosting a fall gathering or need a sweet snack for the road, these jars deliver portable sweetness with a charming presentation. The honey-oat topping adds a nutty crunch that complements the cinnamon-spiced apples, while the jars format keeps everything fresh and ready to eat. Let’s dive into how to make these irresistible mini desserts!
Ingredients
- 12 (8 oz) wide-mouth mason jars with lids
- 6 cups thinly sliced Granny Smith apples (about 4 medium apples)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp honey, plus extra for drizzling
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place 12 jars on the sheet, spaced 2 inches apart. TIP: Use wide-mouth jars lids to prevent overflow during baking.
- Step 2: In a bowl, toss apple slices with lemon juice. Divide evenly among jars bases. TIP: For extra flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg to the apple layer.
- Step 3: In another bowl, combine flour, oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Cut in butter until crumbly. Divide topping among jars lids. TIP: Use a pastry cutter to ensure even butter distribution.
- Step 4: Sprinkle topping over apples in each jar. Drizzle with 1/2 tsp honey per jar. TIP: Add a few chopped walnuts for extra crunch.
- Step 5: Bake for 25-30 minutes until topping is golden and apples bubble. Cool slightly before serving. TIP: Let jars rest 10 minutes for easier serving.
Why This Recipe Works
⏰ Portable Perfection
The jar format eliminates the need for messy transfer after baking. Just serve directly from the jar!
💰 Make-Ahead Magic
Assemble jars up to 24 hours ahead and bake when ready—great for events!
👥 Crowd-Pleasing Presentation
The rustic jars appearance adds charm to any table. Guests will love the individual portions!
🌟 Flavorful Layers
The honey-oat topping creates a perfect balance of sweet, nutty, and cinnamon warmth.
Mini Apple Crisp in a Jar
Adorable single-serve desserts for picnics and parties
🛒 Ingredients
- - 12 (8 oz) wide-mouth mason jars
- - 6 cups sliced Granny Smith apples
- - 1/2 cup flour
- - 1/2 cup rolled oats
- - 1/2 cup brown sugar
👨🍳 Instructions
Prep Jars: Line baking sheet with parchment. Place jars spaced 2 inches apart.
💡 Use wide-mouth jars to prevent overflow
Prepare Apples: Toss slices with lemon juice. Divide among jars.
💡 Add nutmeg for extra depth
Make Topping: Combine flour, oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt. Cut in butter.
💡 Use a pastry cutter for even texture
Assemble: Sprinkle topping over apples. Drizzle with honey.
💡 Add chopped walnuts for crunch
Bake: Bake 25-30 minutes until golden. Cool 10 minutes before serving.
💡 Let jars rest for easier serving
Nutrition (per serving):
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Granny Smith Apples
Their tartness balances the sweet topping perfectly. For softer texture, use Honeycrisp.
Substitutions: Pink Lady, Braeburn, or Fuji apples
Rolled Oats
Provide chewy texture contrast. Quick oats won’t hold shape as well.
Substitutions: Use 1/2 cup flour + 1/4 cup cornmeal
Honey
Adds natural sweetness and moisture. Maple syrup works equally well.
Substitutions: Light corn syrup or agave nectar
Butter
Cold butter creates flaky crumbs. Melted butter makes a dense topping.
Substitutions: Use 1/4 cup coconut oil for vegan version
Pro Tips for Perfect Apple Crisp in Jars
💡 Jar Size Matters
Use 8 oz jars for proper filling. Overfilling causes topping overflow during baking.
🍁 Fall Flavor Boost
Sprinkle a pinch of nutmeg with the apple slices for extra autumn warmth.
🧊 Make-Ahead Magic
Assemble jars up to 24 hours ahead. Cover with plastic wrap until baking day.
✨ Presentation Perfection
Drizzle with extra honey before serving for a professional finish.
Berry Twist
Swap apples for mixed berries. Add a splash of vanilla extract to the topping.
Spiced Up
Add 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice to the crumble for extra fall flavor.
Nutty Delight
Stir in 1/3 cup chopped pecans or walnuts into the topping mixture.
Dairy-Free
Use vegan butter and coconut oil instead of regular butter for a plant-based version.
