Description
Apple Crisp is a classic, comforting dessert featuring tender baked apples layered under a crunchy, buttery oat and brown sugar streusel topping. Sweetened with a homemade syrup, it’s perfect served warm and delicious with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Ingredients
For the Streusel Topping:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup rolled oats
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
For the Apple Filling:
- 4 cups chopped peeled apples
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional:
- Vanilla ice cream, for serving
Instructions
- Make the streusel: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, combine the flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Using a pastry blender or your fingers, cut the softened butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture is crumbly.
- Assemble the base layer: Press half of the streusel mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 2-1/2-quart baking dish or 9-inch square baking pan to form an even crust. Spread the chopped peeled apples evenly over this streusel base. Put the remaining streusel in the refrigerator until ready to use.
- Make the syrup: In a small saucepan, mix the sugar, cornstarch, water, and vanilla extract. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly. Continue cooking and stirring for about 2 minutes until the syrup thickens and becomes clear.
- Pour the syrup over apples: Carefully pour the hot syrup evenly over the apple layer in the baking dish.
- Add the topping: Remove the remaining streusel from the refrigerator and sprinkle it evenly over the syrup-covered apples.
- Bake the crisp: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 60 to 65 minutes until the apples are tender and the topping is golden and crispy.
- Serve warm: Let the apple crisp cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm by itself or topped with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence.
Notes
- Using slightly tart apples like Granny Smith will balance the sweetness well.
- Make sure to grease your baking dish well to prevent sticking.
- Cover leftovers tightly and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; it reheats well in a microwave or oven.
- You can add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the streusel for extra texture.
- If you prefer a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
