Apple Crisp – A Cozy Classic with Extra Crunch
Apple Crisp is a timeless dessert that feels just right in any season. Whether it’s the chill of fall or the height of summer with fresh-picked apples, there’s something special about the warm spiced fruit and golden oat topping baked to perfection.
The best version we’ve ever had? One with double the crisp. That buttery, crumbly topping is everyone’s favorite part, so why not give it a little extra love? This version layers on the crisp and delivers the perfect balance of sweet apples and crunchy texture in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Apple Crisp
There’s a reason this recipe gets requested again and again. It’s simple to make, filled with pantry staples, and easy to customize. And with that extra-thick crisp layer, it feels just a little more indulgent than the classic version.
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Double the Crisp – A thicker topping means more texture and buttery crunch.
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No Pastry Required – Easier than pie – no rolling or chilling dough needed.
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Perfect for Make-Ahead or Freezer Prep – Bake it fresh or prep it ahead of time.
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Crowd-Friendly – Serves 6–8 and is always a hit at gatherings.
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Versatile – Works with a mix of apple varieties or even pears.
Whether served on its own or topped with ice cream or whipped cream, this dessert never disappoints.
Ingredients That Bring It All Together
The filling is made with fresh apples, a little sugar, warm spices, and lemon juice for brightness. The apples soften in the oven and release their juices and create a natural sauce underneath the crisp topping.
What makes this version stand out is the generous oat topping. It’s packed with oats, flour, butter, and both brown and granulated sugar. Cinnamon ties it all together, while a pinch of salt balances the sweetness. Cutting cold butter into the dry mixture creates those perfect golden crumbles once baked.
You can use Granny Smith apples for a more tart filling. You can even mix them with sweeter varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji for a more complex flavor.
How to Make Apple Crisp with a Thick, Buttery Topping
This dessert is quick to put together and doesn’t require any fancy equipment. After peeling and slicing your apples, toss them with sugar, spices, and lemon juice and add them to your baking dish.
Next, make the crisp topping by combining the oats, flour, sugars, and cinnamon. Use a pastry cutter to blend in the cold butter until crumbly. Layer this mixture generously over the apples – don’t hold back!
Bake until the apples are bubbling and the topping is golden brown. The smell alone is enough to bring everyone to the kitchen.
Equipment You’ll Need
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9×13-inch baking dish – For layering and baking the crisp evenly.
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Mixing bowls – One for apples, one for topping.
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Peeler – Makes prepping apples quick and easy.
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Sharp knife – For coring and slicing apples uniformly.
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Pastry cutter – Best for blending butter into the crisp mixture.
Tips for the Best Apple Crisp
Want that perfect texture and flavor every time? Here are a few simple tips:
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Use Cold Butter – Keeps the topping crumbly instead of greasy.
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Mix Apple Varieties – For a more balanced and flavorful filling.
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Bake Uncovered – This helps the topping crisp up properly.
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Let It Rest – Give the crisp 10–15 minutes to cool before serving so the filling sets.
If you love your topping extra crunchy, finish it under the broiler for the last 2 minutes.
What to Serve with Apple Crisp
This dessert is a cozy classic on its own, but pairing it with something creamy makes it even better.
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Vanilla Ice Cream – Melts into the warm crisp for a perfect contrast.
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Whipped Cream – Light and fluffy against the rich topping.
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Caramel Sauce – Drizzle on top for a decadent finish.
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Greek Yogurt – A tangy, lighter option for everyday indulgence.
Leftovers (if you have any) are great the next morning with coffee or tea.
Other Recipes to Try
Love this recipe? Here are more apple-forward favorites from Sisters Know Best:
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Apple Cinnamon Muffin Recipe – A warm and cozy muffin packed with cinnamon and fresh apple flavor.
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Fall Apple Rose Dessert – A show-stopping dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
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Fruit Crumble Recipe – A versatile, crisp-like dessert made with a variety of fruits.
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Stovetop Cinnamon Apples – A quick variation for enjoying cinnamon-spiced apples without turning on the oven.
There’s nothing quite like the aroma of Apple Crisp baking in the oven – and with a double crisp topping, this version takes it to the next level. Simple ingredients, easy prep, and big flavor make this dessert a staple in any season.
Serve it warm, cold, or right out of the pan—just make sure to save yourself a second helping.
Apple Crisp
Notes
- Make Ahead: Assemble and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Apple Variety: Use a mix of tart and sweet apples for better depth.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend and certified GF oats.
- Want It Extra Crispy? Broil the last 2 minutes for a golden crunch.
