Old Fashioned Cinnamon Apple Crisp

This cozy cinnamon apple crisp captures the essence of fall in each spoonful with the perfect mix of tender apples and a golden buttery oat topping. It is my go-to dessert when guests drop by or when my family craves something sweet but simple. Every bite tastes like a warm hug straight from the oven.

The first time I made this was during a rainy afternoon and the scent of cinnamon filled my whole kitchen. My family devoured the pan and now it is a requested treat for every holiday gathering.

Ingredients

• Fresh apples: Sliced thin to ensure they soften and get juicy while baking choose firm apples to prevent them from turning mushy
• Brown sugar: Brings sweetness and a hint of caramel flavor you can use light or dark for a richer taste
• Rolled oats: Create that signature crumbly topping select old fashioned oats for best texture
• All purpose flour: Binds the topping and helps it brown evenly look for unbleached for pure flavor
• Cinnamon: Adds warmth and spicy sweetness fresh cinnamon gives the strongest aroma
• Butter: Melted for easy mixing and a rich flavor in every bite high quality butter makes a big difference
• Salt: Balances sweetness and highlights the apple flavor opt for fine sea salt for even seasoning

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Apples:

Slice apples evenly about one quarter inch thick for uniform baking toss with brown sugar and cinnamon making sure apple slices are well coated and set aside so the sugar draws out their juices

Make the Topping:

In a separate mixing bowl stir together rolled oats flour and salt pour in the melted butter and mix thoroughly until the mixture resembles moist crumbs ensuring no dry pockets remain

Layer in the Dish:

Spread the sweetened apples evenly into the bottom of a baking dish pressing them down gently to create an even layer pour and crumble the oat mixture evenly on top covering all the apples

Bake to Perfection:

Place the baking dish on the oven’s middle rack and bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for thirty to thirty five minutes look for a topping that is deep golden brown and apples bubbling at the edges remove from the oven and let cool for at least fifteen minutes to allow the juices to settle

Pin

One of my favorite moments with this dish is serving it to my grandmother who declared it tasted just like her mother’s. I always sneak an extra spoonful of cinnamon for warmth and nostalgia.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. Reheat in the oven or microwave for that just baked flavor. If freezing allow the crisp to cool completely before wrapping well and freeze for up to one month.

Ingredient Substitutions

Gluten free flour blends work just as well as all purpose flour for those avoiding gluten. Pears can be swapped in for a tasty twist. If you prefer a less sweet version reduce the brown sugar or use maple syrup for earthy sweetness.

Pin

Serving Suggestions

Serve cinnamon apple crisp warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence. For a breakfast treat try a small bowl with a splash of heavy cream or alongside plain Greek yogurt.

Cultural and Historical Context

This dessert is rooted in American comfort food history dating back to the colonial era when apples and oats were common pantry staples. Simple crisps were a way to turn autumn’s apple harvest into a sweet treat with minimal fuss.

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of apples work best?

Any apple variety can be used, but firmer apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp hold their shape well during baking and offer a balance of tartness and sweetness.

→ Can I substitute the oats with another ingredient?

Oats provide a hearty texture, but chopped nuts or additional flour can be used for a different crunch. The topping may be slightly denser without oats.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Cool completely, then cover and refrigerate. Enjoy chilled or reheat portions in the microwave or oven for best texture.

→ Is it necessary to peel the apples?

Peeling is recommended for a softer texture, but leaving the peels on adds extra fiber and slight chewiness. Choose based on your preference.

→ What can be served alongside this dessert?

This dish pairs beautifully with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence.