If you are searching for an irresistible comfort dessert that always feels like a warm hug, this Classic Apple Crisp with Oats and Cinnamon Recipe is exactly what you need. Bursting with juicy, tart Granny Smith apples, a crunchy cinnamon-infused topping made from oats and brown sugar, this dish perfectly balances sweet and spice. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family gathering or an impressive yet simple dessert, this apple crisp combines texture, flavor, and nostalgia in every bite. It’s the kind of recipe that transforms humble ingredients into something unforgettable.

Classic Apple Crisp with Oats and Cinnamon Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

All the ingredients for this Classic Apple Crisp with Oats and Cinnamon Recipe are simple pantry staples, yet each one plays a crucial role in building the perfect texture and flavor profile. From the tartness of Granny Smith apples to the buttery, crisp topping, these components work in harmony to create a timeless dessert.

Granny Smith apples (10 medium): Their tartness balances the sweetness, and peeling and slicing them ensures a tender bite.
Light brown sugar (3 cups total): Adds rich, caramel-like sweetness that complements the apples and crisp topping.
All-purpose flour (3 tablespoons + 2 cups): Used to thicken the apple mixture and provide structure to the crispy topping.
Ground cinnamon (3 teaspoons total): Infuses warm spice throughout the apples and topping, creating that classic comforting aroma.
Quick oats (2 cups): Give the topping its delightful chewiness and wholesome texture.
Cold unsalted butter (1 cup, cubed): Key to achieving that perfect crumbly, golden crisp when baked.

How to Make Classic Apple Crisp with Oats and Cinnamon Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and greasing a 9×13 inch baking dish with nonstick spray or butter. This preparation sets the stage for easy release and even baking of your apple crisp, so don’t skip it!

Step 2: Prepare the Apple Mixture

In a large bowl, toss the peeled, cored, and sliced Granny Smith apples with brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon. This coating not only sweetens the apples but also thickens their natural juices during baking, ensuring every forkful is perfectly balanced and not soggy.

Step 3: Prepare the Crisp Mixture

In a separate bowl, combine oats, flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Add the cold cubed butter, then use your hands or a fork to mix until the butter breaks down into pea-sized bits. This step is the heart of your topping, providing a buttery, crumbly texture that crisps up beautifully in the oven.

Step 4: Assemble the Crisp

Press about three cups of the crisp mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared dish to form a sturdy base. Next, spread the apple mixture over this bottom layer and lightly press it down with a spatula. Finally, sprinkle the remaining crisp mixture evenly on top to create a golden, crunchy lid that bakes to perfection.

Step 5: Bake Your Apple Crisp

Bake uncovered for 35 to 45 minutes until the apples are bubbling with sweet juice and the topping is a beautiful golden brown. The smell filling your kitchen will be enough to lift your spirits as anticipation builds!

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Allow the apple crisp to cool just slightly so it sets up and isn’t too runny. Serve it warm, and if you want to be extra indulgent, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top – the combination is affectionate and irresistible.

How to Serve Classic Apple Crisp with Oats and Cinnamon Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of chopped toasted walnuts, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a drizzle of caramel sauce can elevate your apple crisp visually and in flavor. Fresh whipped cream adds an airy contrast to the crisp’s hearty texture.

Side Dishes

This dessert stands well on its own but pairs wonderfully with a simple cup of coffee or a hot cup of chai tea to complement the cinnamon notes. For a festive twist, a sharp cheddar cheese slice alongside your apple crisp offers a delightful savory balance.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving individual portions in small ramekins or mason jars for an elegant touch that’s perfect for guests. Alternatively, layer the apple crisp in a trifle bowl with whipped cream and caramel for a stunning, shareable dessert centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Classic Apple Crisp with Oats and Cinnamon Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to four days while maintaining its delicious texture and flavor.

Freezing

You can freeze the unbaked assembled crisp in its baking dish, tightly wrapped with plastic and foil, for up to two months. When ready, bake it straight from the freezer, adding extra bake time until bubbly and golden.

Reheating

Reheat individual servings in the microwave or warm the whole dish in a 350°F (175°C) oven until hot and bubbly. A fresh dollop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream after reheating makes it feel just freshly baked.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of apple for this recipe?

Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples provide the perfect tartness and texture, you can mix or substitute with other firm apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji. Just keep in mind the flavor will vary slightly.

Can I make the topping without oats?

Yes, though oats add wonderful texture and nutty flavor to the topping. If you omit oats, you can increase the flour or add chopped nuts to maintain that satisfying crunch.

Is it possible to use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Yes, but reduce any added salt elsewhere in the recipe if possible. Unsalted butter gives you more control over the saltiness in desserts like apple crisp.

How do I prevent the topping from becoming soggy?

Ensuring your butter is cold before mixing it in helps create that chunky, crumbly texture that crisps in the oven. Also, pressing some of the topping into the baking dish before layering the apples forms a barrier to absorb juices and keep the topping crisp.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, and use certified gluten-free oats. This adaptation tastes just as wonderful and retains the classic texture.

Final Thoughts

Nothing brings people together quite like a warm, baked dessert straight from the oven, and this Classic Apple Crisp with Oats and Cinnamon Recipe does it beautifully. Its perfect balance of tart apples, spiced sweetness, and crunchy topping makes it a forever favorite in my kitchen, and I’m confident it will be in yours too. So grab those apples and get baking – you’re in for a heartwarming treat!