If you’ve ever wanted a dessert that feels like a warm hug on a cool evening, you’re in for a treat with this Old Fashioned Apple Crisp Recipe. It’s that perfect blend of tender, cinnamon-spiced apples beneath a crunchy, buttery oat topping. Each bite delivers a balance of sweet and tart that charms the taste buds and brings back nostalgic memories of homemade comfort food. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or a casual gathering with friends, this classic dessert is sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen.

Old Fashioned Apple Crisp Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are wonderfully simple but incredibly important for nailing the authentic taste and texture of this Old Fashioned Apple Crisp Recipe. Each component plays a unique role, from the tart apples providing brightness, the spices warming your senses, to the buttery crumble topping adding irresistible crunch.

6-7 medium apples (about 5 cups), peeled, cored, and sliced: Choosing Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples will give you the perfect balance of tartness and sweetness.
1 tablespoon lemon juice: Helps keep the apples from browning and adds a subtle zing.
1/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the apple filling just right without overpowering the natural fruit flavor.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Infuses the filling with that warm, spice classic to apple desserts.
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds depth and a cozy hint of spice.
1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional): For a thicker, luscious filling that holds together beautifully.
3/4 cup old-fashioned rolled oats: Provides a hearty, crunchy texture for the topping.
1/2 cup all-purpose flour: Helps bind the crumble mixture for a perfect crisp.
1/2 cup packed brown sugar: Adds a caramel-y sweetness and moisture to the topping.
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon: A little extra to enhance the crumble topping’s flavor.
1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances overall taste.
1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes: Key to creating those irresistible pea-sized chunks in the topping that melt into crisp, golden bits.

How to Make Old Fashioned Apple Crisp Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, grease an 8×8-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to ensure your apple crisp won’t stick and will slide out smoothly when you’re ready to serve.

Step 2: Toss Apples with Spices and Sugar

In a large bowl, combine your peeled and sliced apples with lemon juice, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cornstarch if you’d like a thicker filling. Toss everything well so each apple slice is evenly coated with the flavorful mixture. This step is where your dessert really starts to come alive with those wonderful cinnamon and nutmeg notes nesting in the fruit.

Step 3: Make the Crumble Topping

In a separate bowl, mix together the oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Add the cold butter cubes and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the dry ingredients. Aim for a texture that resembles coarse crumbs, with some pea-sized bits of butter for an extra crisp finish. This mix creates the hallmark crunchy topping that makes this Old Fashioned Apple Crisp Recipe so memorable.

Step 4: Assemble the Crisp

Spread the apple mixture evenly in your prepared baking dish. Then, generously sprinkle the oat crumble topping over the fruit, covering it completely to ensure every bite has a bit of that buttery crunch.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 40 to 45 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are bubbling with juicy goodness beneath. Keep an eye on the topping about 30 minutes in—if it starts browning too fast, cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning while the apples finish cooking.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Once baked, give your apple crisp a few minutes to cool and set. This makes it easier to scoop. For a decadent touch, serve it with vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or a drizzle of rich caramel sauce. This Old Fashioned Apple Crisp Recipe shines brightest when it’s cozy and comforting, fresh from the oven and perfectly balanced in flavors and textures.

How to Serve Old Fashioned Apple Crisp Recipe

Garnishes

Simple garnishes can elevate this classic dessert beautifully. A scoop of vanilla ice cream creates a dreamy contrast between hot and cold, while a dusting of powdered sugar or a sprinkle of chopped nuts adds extra flair and texture. Fresh mint leaves can add a pop of color and freshness if you want to get a bit fancy.

Side Dishes

While this apple crisp is a stand-alone superstar, pairing it with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or even mulled cider completes the perfect cozy experience. It also pairs wonderfully with a lightly spiced, creamy chai latte or a glass of chilled dessert wine if you’re aiming for a more indulgent setting.

Creative Ways to Present

For a rustic look, serve the crisp straight from the baking dish with a large spoon. Alternatively, portion it into individual ramekins or mason jars to create charming single-serve desserts that look delightful on any table. Layering the crisp with whipped cream or adding caramel drizzle right before serving adds a gourmet touch that friends and family will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store any leftover apple crisp covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keeping it chilled helps maintain freshness, and the flavors often deepen overnight, making it even better the next day.

Freezing

This Old Fashioned Apple Crisp Recipe freezes beautifully. To freeze, cover the unbaked crisp tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake it straight from frozen—just add a little extra baking time and keep an eye on the topping so it doesn’t overbrown.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warm and bubbly. Avoid the microwave if you want to keep the topping crisp. For a quick fix, a toaster oven also works wonderfully for bringing back that freshly baked texture.

FAQs

Can I use other types of apples for this recipe?

Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are ideal for their tartness and texture, you can mix in Fuji, Braeburn, or Jonathan apples for a nuanced flavor. Just make sure to avoid very soft varieties that might turn mushy during baking.

Is cornstarch necessary in the filling?

Cornstarch is optional but recommended if you prefer a thicker, less watery filling. It helps the juices from the apples gel up during baking, giving a lovely texture without being too runny.

Can I make the topping vegan?

Yes! Substitute the unsalted butter with a plant-based margarine or coconut oil. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious and crisp.

How long does this apple crisp keep at room temperature?

To keep it safe and fresh, it’s best not to leave the apple crisp out for more than two hours. After that, refrigerate any leftovers promptly to prevent spoilage.

Can I add nuts or dried fruit to the topping?

Definitely! Chopped walnuts, pecans, or even dried cranberries make fantastic additions that add crunch and flavor complexity to the classic topping. Just sprinkle them on before baking.

Final Thoughts

This Old Fashioned Apple Crisp Recipe brings together simple ingredients to create a dessert that’s truly heartwarming and unforgettable. It’s perfect for any occasion that calls for a sweet, comforting finish. I hope you give this recipe a try and find as much joy in baking and sharing it as I do. Trust me, once you experience that golden oat topping paired with tender, cinnamon-spiced apples, this will become your go-to dessert for years to come!