Introduction
There’s something magical about the smell of apples and cinnamon baking in the oven. It instantly makes your home feel warmer, cozier, and more inviting. For me, this Apple Cinnamon Crisp Recipe is the ultimate comfort dessert.
I still remember making apple crisp for the first time with my grandmother on a crisp October afternoon. She handed me the job of peeling the apples (a big responsibility for a kid with clumsy hands!), and as the dish baked, the kitchen filled with a buttery, cinnamon-scented aroma that had us all gathering around the oven door. By the time it was served—still bubbling hot with a scoop of vanilla ice cream—it was pure happiness in a bowl.
This dessert is beloved because it’s simple yet so flavorful. Tender apples coated in cinnamon sugar, topped with a crunchy oat streusel that bakes to golden perfection—it’s everything you want in a fall treat. And the best part? You don’t have to be a pro baker to nail this recipe. It’s forgiving, customizable, and always a crowd-pleaser.
Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner, planning a cozy family night, or just craving something sweet, this Apple Cinnamon Crisp Recipe is the one you’ll come back to again and again. 🍎✨
Ingredients for Apple Cinnamon Crisp Recipe
For the Apple Filling
- 6 medium apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix), peeled, cored, and sliced
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (prevents browning + adds brightness)
- ½ cup granulated sugar (or coconut sugar for a less refined option)
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch (thickens the filling)
For the Crisp Topping
- 1 cup rolled oats (old-fashioned oats work best)
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour (sub: almond flour for gluten-free)
- ½ cup brown sugar (lightly packed)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed (or coconut oil for vegan option)
- ½ cup chopped nuts (optional, walnuts or pecans add a lovely crunch)
Optional Add-Ins
- A splash of vanilla extract in the filling for extra depth.
- A handful of dried cranberries for a festive twist.
Substitution Ideas
- Vegan: Use coconut oil or vegan butter, and swap honey (if using) for maple syrup.
- Gluten-Free: Replace flour with almond flour or a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
- Healthier: Reduce sugar by half and let the natural sweetness of the apples shine.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Apple Cinnamon Crisp Recipe
- Preheat your oven
- Set it to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Prepare the apples
- Peel, core, and slice your apples into even pieces. Toss them in a large bowl with lemon juice, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cornstarch until well coated. Spread the mixture evenly into your baking dish.
- Make the crisp topping
- In another bowl, combine oats, flour, brown sugar, salt, and cinnamon. Add the cold butter cubes, then use your fingertips or a pastry cutter to work the butter into the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in nuts if using.
- Assemble
- Sprinkle the crisp topping evenly over the apples. Make sure to cover the filling completely for maximum crunch.
- Bake
- Place in the preheated oven and bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apple filling is bubbling around the edges.
- Cool slightly & serve
- Let it rest for at least 10 minutes before serving. This helps the filling thicken a bit more.
Extra Tips for Apple Cinnamon Crisp Recipe
- Serving Suggestions: Serve warm with a big scoop of vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce. For breakfast vibes, try topping it with Greek yogurt.
- Storage: Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for 10–15 minutes to revive the crisp topping. The microwave works too, but the topping won’t be as crunchy.
- Ingredient Variations: Swap half the apples for pears for a fun twist, or add a handful of berries for a tart contrast.
Nutritional Information (per serving, ~8 servings)
- Calories: 310
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 28g
(For a more detailed breakdown, check the full nutrition info at Recipes Louna).
FAQ About Apple Cinnamon Crisp Recipe
Q: How long does this recipe take?
A: About 15 minutes of prep and 40–45 minutes of baking, so just under an hour total.
Q: Can I substitute the apples?
A: Yes! Pears, peaches, or even a mix of fruits work beautifully. Just adjust sugar depending on the fruit’s sweetness.
Q: Can I freeze Apple Cinnamon Crisp?
A: Definitely! Assemble the crisp (without baking) and freeze it tightly wrapped for up to 3 months. Bake straight from frozen, adding about 10 minutes to the bake time.
Conclusion: Why You’ll Love This Apple Cinnamon Crisp Recipe
This Apple Cinnamon Crisp Recipe isn’t just a dessert—it’s a memory maker. From the cozy aroma that fills your kitchen to the first spoonful of warm, cinnamon-spiced apples under a crunchy golden topping, it’s pure joy in every bite.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and flexibility. It’s easy enough for a weeknight treat yet impressive enough for a holiday table. You can make it vegan, gluten-free, or healthier without losing its charm. And let’s be honest—who can resist a dessert that pairs perfectly with a melty scoop of vanilla ice cream?
So next time you’re craving a comforting, fuss-free dessert, give this Apple Cinnamon Crisp Recipe a try. Then come back and let me know how it turned out in the comments—I’d love to hear your twist on it! And don’t forget to share this recipe with your fellow dessert lovers. 🍏🥧✨