Apple Crisp (2 Ways)

Apple Crisp Recipe

Apple crisp is a timeless baked dessert made with tender apples and a sweet, buttery topping. It’s quick to assemble and perfect for fall gatherings, holiday meals, and cozy family dinners.

This page features two classic versions—one with a crunchy oatmeal-brown sugar topping and one with a simpler flour-sugar topping. Both are delicious served warm with ice cream or whipped cream.

Recipes on this page

✨ Jump directly to a classic recipe:

🍎 Apple Crisp Recipe 1 (Oatmeal Topping)

A large-batch, comforting classic featuring tender cinnamon-sugar apples underneath a crisp, brown sugar and quick-oat topping.

⏱️ Bake Time: 45 mins 🍳 Pan: 12-inch Baking Dish

Ingredients

Apple Base:

  • 12 to 15 apples (sliced)
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 teaspoons cinnamon
  • 2 cups sugar

Oatmeal Crumble Topping:

  • 1 stick margarine (oleo) (softened)
  • 2/3 cup brown sugar
  • 1 1/3 cups uncooked quick oatmeal
  • 1 1/3 cups flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla

Baking Instructions

🌡️ Oven Temp: 375°F

  1. Arrange the sliced apples evenly inside a thoroughly buttered 12-inch baking dish. Sprinkle uniformly with fresh lemon juice and dot with the 2 tablespoons of butter.
  2. In a small bowl, combine the cinnamon and white sugar together, then sprinkle it evenly across the top of the apples.
  3. In a separate bowl, mix the softened margarine, brown sugar, quick oats, flour, baking soda, salt, and vanilla until thoroughly combined and crumbly.
  4. Spread the oatmeal crumble mixture evenly over the seasoned fruit base.
  5. Bake for 45 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the topping turns beautifully golden brown. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

🍏 Apple Crisp Recipe 2 (Simple Topping)

An easy-to-assemble version focusing on clean fruit flavors and a simple, buttery golden flour pastry crust.

⏱️ Bake Time: 1 Hour 10 mins 🍳 Pan: 9×12-inch Baking Dish

Ingredients

Apple Base:

  • 15 apples (sliced)
  • 2 teaspoons cinnamon
  • 1 cup sugar

Simple Pastry Topping:

  • 11 tablespoons margarine (softened)
  • 1 1/2 cups flour
  • 1 cup sugar

Baking Instructions

🌡️ Oven Temp: 350°F

  1. In a large bowl, thoroughly mix the sliced apples with cinnamon and 1 cup of sugar. Arrange the mixture evenly into a 9×12-inch baking dish.
  2. In a separate bowl, blend the flour, the remaining 1 cup of sugar, and the softened margarine together until it forms coarse, uniform crumbs.
  3. Spread the crumbly mixture evenly across the seasoned apples, completely covering the base.
  4. Bake for 1 hour and 10 minutes, or until the apple base is entirely tender and the topping bakes up golden brown.

Apple Crisp FAQ

What apples work best for apple crisp?

Use firm, tart apples that hold their shape, such as Granny Smith. A mix of tart and sweet apples gives great balanced flavor.

Can I make apple crisp ahead of time?

Yes. Bake and cool completely, then refrigerate. Reheat in a 350°F oven until warm to help restore crispness in the topping.

How do I store leftovers?

Cover and refrigerate for up to 3–4 days. Reheat in the oven for the crispiest topping (microwave works but softens it).

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