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Imagine the warm, inviting aroma of cinnamon and baked apples wafting through your kitchen, wrapping you in a cozy embrace. This Old Fashioned Apple Crisp is a delightful blend of sweet, tart apples topped with a buttery, crumbly oat mixture that creates a perfect contrast of textures. Each bite is a comforting explosion of flavors, with hints of brown sugar and a sprinkle of nutmeg dancing on your palate. Serve it warm with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream, and you’ve got a dessert that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day!

Why You’ll Love This Old Fashioned Apple Crisp
- Trust me, you’re going to love the warm, cozy flavors that fill your kitchen.
- This one’s a game-changer for using up those extra apples sitting in your fruit bowl.
- It’s super easy to whip up, making it perfect for both novice and seasoned bakers.
- The crunchy topping adds just the right amount of texture to complement the tender apples.
- Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and you’ll be in dessert heaven!
Recipe Snapshot
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Category | Side Dish |
Cuisine | American-inspired comfort food |
Prep Time | 10 minutes |
Cook Time | 15 minutes |
Total Time | 25 minutes |
Dietary | Vegetarian |
Serves | 4 |
Best Served | Hot and cheesy right off the cob! |
Ingredients
- Apples – Choose tart varieties like Granny Smith for the best flavor.
- Brown Sugar – Adds a rich, caramel-like sweetness to the crisp.
- Oats – Provides a hearty texture and helps bind the topping.
- All-Purpose Flour – Creates a crumbly topping that complements the apples.
- Cinnamon – Enhances the warm, comforting flavor of the dish.
- Nutmeg – A pinch adds depth and warmth to the apple filling.
- Butter – Use cold, unsalted butter for a flaky topping.
- Vanilla Extract – A splash brightens the overall flavor profile.
- Lemon Juice – Helps balance the sweetness and prevents browning of the apples.
Ingredients with measurements will be right under the article in the recipe card.

How to Make the Old Fashioned Apple Crisp
Get ready to create a delicious Old Fashioned Apple Crisp that will warm your heart!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure your crisp bakes evenly and turns golden brown.
Step 2: Prepare the Apples
Core, peel, and slice about 6 cups of your favorite apples. Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work wonderfully!
Step 3: Mix the Filling
In a large bowl, toss the sliced apples with ¾ cup of brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. This adds a zesty kick!
Step 4: Make the Topping
In another bowl, combine 1 cup of rolled oats, 1 cup of flour, ½ cup of brown sugar, and ½ cup of softened butter. Mix until crumbly!
Step 5: Assemble the Crisp
Spread the apple mixture evenly in a greased baking dish. Then, sprinkle the oat topping generously over the apples.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the topping is golden and the apples are bubbly.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Let your Old Fashioned Apple Crisp cool for a few minutes. Serve warm, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream!

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
- Use a mix of sweet and tart apples for depth of flavor.
- For extra crunch, add chopped nuts to the topping.
- Let the crisp cool slightly before serving for easier slicing.
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast.
- Experiment with spices like nutmeg or allspice for a unique twist.
How to Serve
Enjoy your Old Fashioned Apple Crisp with these delightful serving suggestions:
- Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic combo.
- Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the crisp for an extra sweet touch.
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream for a light and airy finish.
- Pair with a side of Greek yogurt for a creamy contrast.
- Sprinkle with chopped nuts for added crunch and flavor.
- Enjoy it warm with a cup of spiced herbal tea for a cozy treat.
- Mix in some dried cranberries or raisins for a fruity twist.
- Serve it in individual ramekins for a charming presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Old Fashioned Apple Crisp fresh:
- Allow it to cool completely.
- Transfer to an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze your apple crisp:
- Cool completely before freezing.
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating
To enjoy your apple crisp again:
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
- Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes.
- For a quick option, microwave in short intervals until warm.

FAQs
What type of apples are best for Old Fashioned Apple Crisp?
For the best flavor and texture, use a mix of tart and sweet apples. Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are great choices. They hold their shape well and provide a nice balance of sweetness and tartness.
Can I make Old Fashioned Apple Crisp ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the apple filling and topping separately, then assemble and bake when you’re ready to serve. This makes it a convenient dessert for gatherings or busy weeknights.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover apple crisp in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. You can reheat it in the oven for a few minutes to enjoy that warm, comforting taste again.
Can I substitute ingredients in the recipe?
Yes! You can use oats instead of flour for a gluten-free option, or swap brown sugar with coconut sugar for a healthier alternative. Feel free to get creative with spices like nutmeg or ginger for added flavor!
Final Thoughts
There you have it—your very own Old Fashioned Apple Crisp! This delightful dessert is not just a treat; it’s a warm hug in a bowl. With its sweet, cinnamon-spiced apples and crunchy topping, it’s the perfect way to bring a little nostalgia into your kitchen. So, grab a spoon, share it with loved ones, and savor every delicious bite. Happy baking!