Classic Apple Crisp Recipe: A Cozy Fall Favorite That’s Always a Winner

Looking for a dessert that’s warm, easy to make, and tastes like comfort in every bite? This classic apple crisp recipe is the one I turn to every fall when the apples start rolling in. It’s sweet and buttery and has the perfect oat-streusel topping that crisps up beautifully in the oven.

Why You’ll Love This Classic Apple Crisp

Every family has their go-to cosy dessert, and for mine, it’s this one. What I love most is how adaptable it is, you can use tart or sweet apples, make it gluten-free, or swap the oats depending on what’s in your pantry.

This isn’t just any apple crisp; it’s our award-winning apple crisp recipe from countless potlucks and family get-togethers. Inspired by classics from Ina Garten and Pioneer Woman, but simplified with my twists.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Apple Filling:

• 6 cups peeled, thinly sliced apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix)
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 tablespoon flour or cornstarch

Crisp Topping:

• 1 cup rolled oats (use GF oats if needed)
• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• Optional: 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare Apples
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Toss the apples with lemon juice, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and flour until evenly coated. Spread them in a greased 9×9-inch baking dish.

2. Make the Topping
In another bowl, combine oats, flour, brown sugar, and salt. Add butter and mix using a pastry cutter or fingers until the mixture becomes crumbly.

3. Assemble and Bake
Evenly sprinkle the topping over the apples. Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes until golden brown and bubbling.

4. Cool Slightly and Serve
Let it cool for about 10–15 minutes. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

Personal Tips from My Kitchen

I’ve been baking this since my college days, when I didn’t have time to deal with pie crusts. The oat topping is easy and foolproof. Pro tip? Use a mix of apples for the best balance of tartness and sweetness.

Don’t skip the salt—it enhances the overall flavour.

Classic Apple Crisp Variations

Old-Fashioned Apple Crisp Recipe
Stick to basics: apples, cinnamon, sugar, flour, and butter. No oats or nuts, just a crumbly, buttery topping.

Simple Apple Crisp Recipe (No Oats)
Skip the oats entirely and double the flour. This variation is more like a classic apple crumble.

Classic Apple Crisp recipe with Oats
Perfectly crispy on top and soft underneath. This is my personal favourite!

Gluten-Free Apple Crisp
Swap the all-purpose flour with almond flour or oat flour, and ensure the oats are certified gluten-free.

Ina Garten or King Arthur Style
Some versions include orange zest or cloves. Try adding a touch of cardamom for a modern twist.

FAQs

What apples are best for apple crisp?
Granny Smith and Honeycrisp work great. Use a mix for depth of flavour.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, prep the apple filling and topping separately, then combine and bake when ready.

How do I keep the topping crispy?
Use cold butter and don’t cover the dish during baking.

What’s the difference between crisp and crumble?
A crisp usually includes oats. A crumble does not.

Can I make this apple crisp without oats?
Yes. Just replace the oats with flour for a simple apple crumble texture.

Nutrition Estimate (per serving, based on 8 servings)

• Calories: ~310
• Total Fat: 13g
• Carbs: 45g
• Sugar: 28g
• Fibre: 3 g
• Protein: 3 g

What to Serve with Classic Apple Crisp

• A scoop of vanilla ice cream (always a win)
• Whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel
• A hot cup of chai or apple cider

Reader Reviews & Feedback

“I made this for Thanksgiving, and it was gone in minutes. Everyone loved the crispy oat topping!”
— Sarah J.

“This was the first dessert I ever made on my own, and it turned out amazing!”
— Kevin L.

“It is the best classic apple crisp recipe. Warm, sweet, and easy!”
— Fatima D.

Final Thoughts: The Best Apple Crisp for Fall (or Anytime)

Whether you know it as classic apple crisp recipe, old-fashioned apple crisp, or simply apple crisp, this recipe delivers every time. With its buttery oat topping and tender spiced apples, it’s a dessert that never fails to impress.

Make it for holidays, weeknights, or when you just need a bowl of warm, homemade comfort.