Oven-Baked Apple Crisp with Brown Sugar & Butter – Classic Comfort 🍎🍂 – The Ultimate Fall Dessert
This timeless apple crisp recipe features a golden brown sugar and butter topping, perfectly complementing tender baked apples. A fall favorite that’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser!
There’s something magical about the combination of warm, cinnamon-spiced apples and a crunchy, caramelized topping. This oven-baked apple crisp brings all the cozy vibes of autumn in one delicious bite. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dessert that’s both comforting and elegant—perfect for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or a quiet evening with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The golden-brown topping, made with brown sugar, butter, and rolled oats, adds a satisfying crunch to the tender apple filling below. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is straightforward and reliable, ensuring a show-stopping result every time.
This apple crisp is more than just a dessert—it’s a celebration of fall flavors. The apples are baked to perfection, releasing their natural juices and creating a syrupy base that’s enhanced by the warm spices. The topping, a mixture of brown sugar, melted butter, and oats, forms a crispy, golden layer that contrasts beautifully with the soft apples. It’s a dessert that’s easy to customize, making it a versatile addition to any meal. Whether you serve it as a standalone treat or pair it with a rich main course, this apple crisp is sure to impress.
What makes this recipe truly special is its simplicity and adaptability. You can use any variety of apples you prefer, from Granny Smith to Honeycrisp, and adjust the spices to suit your taste. The recipe also allows for creative variations, such as adding nuts or a splash of vanilla extract for extra depth. The key to success lies in balancing the sweetness of the topping with the tartness of the apples, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that’s both comforting and exciting.
Beyond its delicious taste, this apple crisp is a nostalgic favorite that brings back memories of home-baked treats and family traditions. It’s a dessert that’s easy to prepare in advance, making it ideal for busy cooks who want to spend more time enjoying the meal rather than preparing it. The recipe’s short ingredient list and straightforward instructions make it accessible to bakers of all skill levels, ensuring that everyone can experience the joy of creating a homemade apple crisp.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a warm, comforting dessert, this oven-baked apple crisp is the perfect choice. Its rich, buttery aroma and golden appearance are sure to fill your kitchen with the cozy scents of autumn. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat, or enjoy it on its own for a classic, satisfying finish to any meal.
Ingredients
- 6 cups thinly sliced apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x9-inch baking dish or a 2-quart casserole dish.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, toss the sliced apples with granulated sugar, 1/4 cup flour, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and salt. Pour the apples into the prepared baking dish, spreading them out evenly.
- Step 3: In a separate bowl, mix melted butter, brown sugar, oats, 1/2 cup flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined. Spoon the topping over the apples, covering them completely.
- Step 4: Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are tender. Let cool slightly before serving.
Oven-Baked Apple Crisp with Brown Sugar & Butter
A classic fall dessert with a caramelized topping and tender apples.
Cook Time: 35m
Servings: 8
🛒 Ingredients
- - 6 cups thinly sliced apples
- - 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- - 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- - 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- - 1/4 teaspoon salt
- - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- - 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- - 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- - 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- - 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- - 1/4 teaspoon salt
- - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- - 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
👨🍳 Instructions
Preheat and Prepare: Preheat oven to 375°F. Grease a 9x9-inch baking dish.
💡 Use parchment paper for easier cleanup.
Prepare Apple Filling: Toss apples with granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and melted butter.
💡 Use a mix of tart and sweet apples for balanced flavor.
Make Topping: Mix brown sugar, oats, flour, baking powder, salt, melted butter, and cinnamon.
💡 For extra crunch, use 1/4 cup chopped walnuts in the topping.
Bake and Serve: Bake 35-40 minutes until golden. Let cool slightly before serving.
💡 Serve warm with vanilla ice cream for a classic pairing.
Nutrition (per serving):
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Apples
The choice of apples affects both texture and flavor. Tart apples like Granny Smith hold up well during baking, while sweeter varieties like Honeycrisp add natural sweetness. A mix of both works best for balance.
Substitutions: Use any firm apple (Braeburn, Jonagold, or Fuji). Avoid overly soft varieties like Red Delicious.
Brown Sugar
Brown sugar adds depth and moisture to the topping. Its molasses content enhances the caramelization process, creating a rich, golden-brown crust.
Substitutions: Light brown sugar can be used interchangeably. For a deeper flavor, try dark brown sugar.
Butter
Unsalted butter is preferred for precise seasoning control. It also ensures a consistent texture in both the topping and the apple filling.
Substitutions: Salted butter can be used, but reduce added salt to 1/8 teaspoon. Vegan butter is a suitable alternative for dairy-free versions.
Oats
Old-fashioned rolled oats provide the ideal texture for the topping. Quick oats will make the topping too crumbly, while steel-cut oats may not bind well.
Substitutions: Use 1/2 cup chopped pecans or almonds for a nutty twist.
Pro Tips for Perfect Apple Crisp
🍂 Apple Selection
Use a mix of tart and sweet apples for the best flavor. Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are excellent choices.
🔥 Baking Technique
Avoid over-tossing the apple mixture to prevent bruising. For a crispier topping, press the topping evenly over the apples.
❄️ Make-Ahead Tip
Assemble the crisp up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate. Bake as directed, adding 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.
🍨 Serving Suggestion
Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For an extra touch, sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt and a drizzle of caramel sauce.
Variations & Customizations
Gluten-Free Option
Use gluten-free oats and all-purpose gluten-free flour. Ensure the oats are labeled gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.
Spiced Topping
Add 1/2 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice or a pinch of nutmeg to the topping for extra warmth and complexity.
Nuts & Seeds
Stir 1/4 cup chopped walnuts, pecans, or pumpkin seeds into the topping for added crunch and flavor.
Citrus Zest
Grate 1 teaspoon of orange or lemon zest into the apple mixture for a bright, fresh twist.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
🍽️ Best Served With:
- Warm buttermilk biscuits with honey butter
- Roasted turkey or ham for a classic holiday pairing
- Maple syrup-glazed pork chops
🍷 Drink Pairings:
Pair with a glass of Chardonnay, apple cider, or a spiced chai tea. For a dessert wine, try late harvest Riesling.
Make-Ahead Instructions & Storage
Make-Ahead Tips
Assemble the crisp up to 24 hours in advance. Cover and refrigerate until ready to bake. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time if the crisp is cold from the fridge.
Refrigerator Storage
Store leftovers crisp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes to restore crispiness.
Freezer Storage
Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as directed.
Reheating Instructions
For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes. Microwaving may soften the topping but works for single servings in a hurry.
Troubleshooting & Common Questions
Q: Why is my topping too dry or too wet?
A: The consistency of the topping depends on the moisture content of the apples and the amount of liquid in the topping mixture. If the topping is too dry, add 1-2 tablespoons of milk or melted butter. If too wet, add 1-2 tablespoons of flour or oats to absorb excess moisture.
Q: How can I prevent the apples from becoming too soggy?
A: To avoid sogginess, ensure the apples are dry before adding them to the dish. Pat them with a clean towel if necessary. Also, avoid over-tossing the apple mixture to prevent bruising, which releases more moisture.
Q: Can I use pre-sliced apples?
A: Yes, but pre-sliced apples tend to release more liquid. To compensate, add an extra 1-2 tablespoons of flour to the apple mixture to absorb excess moisture.
Q: How do I adjust the recipe for a larger or smaller batch?
A: For a larger batch, use a 9x13-inch baking dish and increase the apples and topping ingredients by 1.5x. For a smaller batch, reduce ingredients by half and use a 6-inch round dish. Adjust baking time accordingly (10-15 minutes for smaller, 40-45 minutes for larger).
Final Thoughts
This oven-baked apple crisp is more than just a dessert—it’s a symbol of comfort, tradition, and the joy of home-cooked meals. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home, this recipe brings together the best of fall in every bite. The golden-brown topping, the tender apples, and the warm spices create a harmony of flavors that’s sure to become a family favorite. Don’t be afraid to experiment with variations or customize it to suit your taste. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and adaptability, making it a timeless classic that’s always welcome on the table.
For best Pinterest visibility, post this apple crisp recipe as part of a complete meal series. Start with the crisp as the anchor dish, followed by complementary sides like roasted turkey or pork chops, and finish with a dessert pairing like vanilla ice cream. This approach not only highlights the recipe’s versatility but also creates a cohesive meal plan that your audience will love.
