"Freshly baked apple crisp with a golden-brown oat topping, served with a melting scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. Sliced red and green apples are scattered around the rustic wooden table, with warm sunlight streaming through a window in the background."

“Grate” Apple Crisp Recipe

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The Best Fall Dessert for a Cozy Night

Apple crisp is one of those timeless recipes that evoke memories of warmth, comfort, and the fall season. There’s something about the aroma of apples and cinnamon baking together that makes any house feel like a home. In this recipe, we’ll walk you through a delightful and unique version of apple crisp that focuses on simplicity, health-conscious choices, and flavor. Plus, we’ll show you how to make it without flour and still achieve a deliciously crunchy topping.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 6
Yield: One 9-inch baking dish

Ingredients

"Freshly baked apple crisp with a golden-brown oat topping, served with a melting scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. Sliced red and green apples are scattered around the rustic wooden table, with warm sunlight streaming through a window in the background."
  • For the filling:
    • 6 medium apples, peeled, cored, and sliced (use a mix of tart and sweet varieties like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp)
    • 1 tbsp lemon juice
    • 1/4 cup granulated sugar (or substitute with coconut sugar for a healthier option)
    • 1 tsp cinnamon
    • 1/4 tsp nutmeg
    • 1/4 tsp allspice
    • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • For the topping:
    • 1 1/2 cups rolled oats (gluten-free, if necessary)
    • 1/3 cup brown sugar (or coconut sugar)
    • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
    • 1/2 tsp cinnamon
    • 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional for added crunch)

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

"Freshly baked apple crisp with a golden-brown oat topping, served with a melting scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. Sliced red and green apples are scattered around the rustic wooden table, with warm sunlight streaming through a window in the background."


Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Peel, core, and slice the apples into even slices. In a large mixing bowl, toss the apple slices with lemon juice, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and vanilla extract. This helps to coat the apples evenly and ensures every bite bursts with flavor.

Step 2: Assemble the Filling

"Freshly baked apple crisp with a golden-brown oat topping, served with a melting scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. Sliced red and green apples are scattered around the rustic wooden table, with warm sunlight streaming through a window in the background."


Spread the spiced apple mixture into a greased 9-inch baking dish. Make sure to layer the apples evenly to ensure uniform cooking and a great balance of texture in each serving.

Step 3: Prepare the Oat Topping

"Freshly baked apple crisp with a golden-brown oat topping, served with a melting scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. Sliced red and green apples are scattered around the rustic wooden table, with warm sunlight streaming through a window in the background."


In a separate bowl, combine rolled oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and chopped nuts (if using). Pour in the melted butter and stir the mixture until everything is coated. The butter should create a crumbly texture for the topping that will crisp up beautifully in the oven.

Step 4: Add the Topping
Evenly distribute the oat mixture over the apples in the baking dish. Be sure to cover the apples entirely with the topping to ensure that crispy texture on top when baked.

Step 5: Bake

"Freshly baked apple crisp with a golden-brown oat topping, served with a melting scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. Sliced red and green apples are scattered around the rustic wooden table, with warm sunlight streaming through a window in the background."


Bake the apple crisp in the preheated oven for 40 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the topping is golden and crisp. You can test the doneness by poking a fork into the apples; they should be soft but not mushy.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 310
  • Sugar: 28g
  • Sodium: 30mg
  • Fat: 13g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 48g
  • Fiber: 6g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. No Flour Needed: This apple crisp recipe uses rolled oats as the main topping ingredient, making it a perfect option for those who are gluten-sensitive or avoiding flour. You’ll still get that delightful crunch without using traditional flour.

2. Healthier Sweeteners: Using coconut sugar as an alternative sweetener in both the filling and the topping can provide a healthier twist. Coconut sugar has a lower glycemic index compared to regular sugar, making this recipe a bit more diabetic-friendly.

3. Customizable: Whether you’re adding nuts for an extra crunch or using dairy-free butter for a vegan twist, this recipe is highly adaptable to suit different dietary preferences.

4. Quick & Easy: With only 15 minutes of prep time and minimal steps, this dessert is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something homemade but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen.

5. Kid-Friendly: The warm and cozy flavors of cinnamon, apples, and oats are perfect for picky eaters. Plus, kids can help with peeling and arranging the apples for an interactive family activity.

Key Ingredients and Substitutions

Apples: The best apples for this recipe are a mix of tart and sweet varieties. Granny Smith apples offer a tart bite that contrasts beautifully with sweeter apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji. If you prefer a purely tart or sweet flavor, adjust accordingly. Pears can also be substituted for a more seasonal twist.

Oats: Rolled oats provide the perfect texture for the topping. If you’re gluten-intolerant, make sure to use certified gluten-free oats. For a crunchier texture, you can mix in some steel-cut oats or swap out part of the oats for crushed cornflakes.

Butter: Melted unsalted butter gives the crisp that rich, golden-brown topping we all crave. If you prefer a dairy-free version, swap in a plant-based butter or coconut oil.

Nuts: Adding chopped pecans or walnuts to the topping introduces a rich, nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the apples. If you’re allergic to nuts, simply omit them.

Expert Tips for Success

  • Don’t Overload with Apples: To avoid a soggy bottom layer, stick to the suggested amount of apples. Overloading the dish with too many apples can release excessive moisture, making the crisp less, well, crisp.
  • Let the Crisp Rest: After removing the apple crisp from the oven, allow it to sit for at least 10-15 minutes before serving. This lets the juices settle and makes the dessert easier to slice and serve.
  • Use Cold Butter: For an even crunchier topping, consider using cold butter cut into cubes and mixing it with the oat topping until crumbly. This method yields a chunkier topping that’s extra crisp.
  • Customizable Sweetness: Depending on your preference, adjust the sweetness in both the filling and topping. For a less sweet version, reduce the amount of sugar by half.

Variations and Customizations

  • Vegan Option: Replace butter with a vegan alternative like coconut oil or a plant-based margarine. You can also substitute coconut sugar for regular sugar in the recipe to keep it vegan and refined sugar-free.
  • Apple-Pear Crisp: Mix equal parts apples and pears for a unique take on the traditional apple crisp. Pears add a subtle sweetness and extra juiciness to the dessert.
  • Spice it Up: Add a pinch of ground ginger or cardamom to the filling for an extra layer of flavor.
  • Single Serving: For those moments when you just want a quick treat, this recipe can be adjusted to a single serving. Simply halve the ingredients and bake it in a small oven-safe dish or ramekin.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

  • Storing Leftovers: Store leftover apple crisp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat the crisp in the oven to retain its crunchy topping.
  • Freezing: You can freeze apple crisp before or after baking. To freeze before baking, assemble the crisp, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. To bake, simply remove from the freezer and bake at 350°F (175°C) for an additional 10-15 minutes. If freezing after baking, let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container or wrapping in foil. Allow it to defrost in the refrigerator overnight before warming it up.

Serving Suggestions

Apple crisp pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. You can also drizzle caramel sauce over the top for an extra indulgent treat. For a healthier option, consider serving it with plain Greek yogurt for added protein.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this apple crisp without butter?
Yes! You can substitute butter with coconut oil or a plant-based margarine for a dairy-free version. The result will still be a deliciously crispy topping.

What are the best apples for apple crisp?
A mix of sweet and tart apples yields the best results. Granny Smith apples are ideal for tartness, while Honeycrisp or Fuji apples bring in sweetness. You can adjust the ratio based on your flavor preferences.

Can I use instant oats instead of rolled oats?
While rolled oats are preferred for their texture, you can use instant oats if that’s what you have on hand. Keep in mind that instant oats may result in a softer, less crispy topping.

You’ll Also Love:

  • Peach Cobbler with Oat Topping
  • Classic Blueberry Crisp
  • Easy Pear and Cinnamon Crumble
  • Mixed Berry Crumble with Almonds

In conclusion, this Grate Apple Crisp Recipe is an absolute crowd-pleaser for any occasion, especially during the fall. With its warm spiced apples and crispy oat topping, this dessert offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Plus, with the ability to customize it to fit different dietary needs, it’s sure to become a family favorite in no time! Try this recipe today, and don’t forget to serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Give it a try, and savor the comforting warmth and spiced sweetness of this Grate Apple Crisp Recipe! Perfect for cozy evenings or as a delightful treat to share. Don’t forget to snap a picture and share your #BeesRecipes creations on Instagram – we can’t wait to see your unique twist on this classic apple dessert!