Soft, spiced apples tucked under a buttery, crunchy oat toppingβthis Easy Apple Crisp with Oats (Crispy, Buttery Topping) is a delightful dessert perfect for any occasion. Whether youβre hosting a fall gathering or simply craving a cozy treat, this recipe is sure to impress. With its minimal effort and maximum comfort, youβll find it easy to whip up this classic dessert that combines the best of sweet apples and a crispy topping.
Why Youβll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe requires just a few simple steps and can be made in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Versatile: You can use any mix of apples you have on hand. Granny Smith and Honeycrisp create a great flavor balance, but feel free to experiment!
- Comforting Flavors: The warm spices of cinnamon and nutmeg enhance the natural sweetness of the apples, creating a comforting flavor profile that everyone loves.
- Perfect for Sharing: With 6-8 servings, this apple crisp is ideal for gatherings or family dinners. Everyone will want seconds!
- Deliciously Customizable: Top it with ice cream or whipped cream for an extra treat. You can also add nuts or dried fruits to the topping for additional texture.
Tools and Preparation
Before you dive into making your Easy Apple Crisp with Oats (Crispy, Buttery Topping), ensure you have the right tools ready to make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking dish (9Γ9-inch)
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
- Knife and cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking dish: A good baking dish ensures even cooking and allows the crisp to bake thoroughly without burning.
- Mixing bowls: Having multiple bowls helps keep ingredients organized while prepping your filling and topping.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the perfect balance of flavors in your dessert.
Ingredients
To create this scrumptious Easy Apple Crisp with Oats (Crispy, Buttery Topping), gather the following ingredients:
For the Apple Filling:
- 6β7 medium apples (Granny Smith + Honeycrisp blend)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
For the Crisp Topping:
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp fine salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cubed
How to Make Easy Apple Crisp with Oats (Crispy, Buttery Topping)
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375Β°F. You will be using a 9Γ9-inch baking dish or similar pie plateβthereβs no need to grease it.
Step 2: Prepare the Apple Filling
- Peel, core, and slice the apples into 1/4-inch thick slices.
- Toss them in a bowl with lemon juice, granulated sugar, all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Spread the apple mixture evenly in your baking dish.
Step 3: Make the Crisp Topping
- In another bowl, whisk together old-fashioned rolled oats, all-purpose flour, packed brown sugar, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and fine salt.
- Cut in cold butter using forks or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Step 4: Assemble
Sprinkle the topping evenly over the apple fillingβdo not press down on it.
Step 5: Bake
Place your dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40β45 minutes until the top is deeply golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
Step 6: Cool Before Serving
Once baked, let your Easy Apple Crisp rest for 15β20 minutes before serving. This allows juices to thicken. Serve warm with ice cream or whipped cream for an extra special touch!
How to Serve Easy Apple Crisp with Oats (Crispy, Buttery Topping)
Serving your Easy Apple Crisp with Oats can elevate this delightful dessert experience. Here are some creative ways to enjoy it.
A La Mode
- Serve warm apple crisp topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creamy texture complements the warm, spiced apples perfectly.
Whipped Cream Delight
- Add a dollop of freshly whipped cream on top for an extra touch of sweetness and richness. This combination enhances the buttery topping.
Caramel Drizzle
- Drizzle warm caramel sauce over each serving for a decadent twist. The sweet addition pairs beautifully with the tartness of the apples.
Nutty Crunch
- Sprinkle chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, on top before serving. This adds extra crunch and depth to the dish.
Yogurt Parfait
- Layer the apple crisp with Greek yogurt for a lighter, healthier option. This creates a delicious parfait thatβs perfect for breakfast or brunch.
Fresh Fruit Garnish
- Top each serving with slices of fresh fruit, such as strawberries or blueberries. This adds brightness and freshness to balance the flavors.
How to Perfect Easy Apple Crisp with Oats (Crispy, Buttery Topping)
Perfecting your Easy Apple Crisp with Oats can make all the difference in flavor and texture. Here are some helpful tips.
- Choose the right apples: Select a mix of tart and sweet apples for balanced flavor. Granny Smith and Honeycrisp work wonderfully together.
- Use cold butter: For a flaky topping, ensure your butter is cold when cutting it into the dry ingredients. This helps create that desired crispy texture.
- Donβt skip the resting time: Letting the crisp rest after baking allows juices to thicken. This step is crucial for achieving a perfect serving consistency.
- Experiment with spices: Try adding nutmeg or allspice for an extra layer of flavor in your apple filling. A little variety can enhance your dish significantly.
- Adjust sweetness: Depending on your appleβs tartness, feel free to adjust the sugar in the filling to suit your taste preferences.
- Store properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness for up to 3 days.
Best Side Dishes for Easy Apple Crisp with Oats (Crispy, Buttery Topping)
Pairing side dishes with your Easy Apple Crisp can make for a complete dining experience. Here are some excellent options.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that adds creaminess and temperature contrast.
- Greek Yogurt: Offers a tangy flavor that balances sweetness while providing protein.
- Spiced Chai Latte: The warm spices in chai complement the flavors of apple crisp beautifully.
- Roasted Vegetables: A savory side that adds color and nutrition; try carrots and Brussels sprouts seasoned lightly.
- Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or gouda for a sophisticated touch alongside fruit.
- Mixed Green Salad: Provides freshness and crunch; consider adding nuts and vinaigrette for added flavor.
- Pumpkin Soup: A comforting soup that pairs well with fall flavors, creating a cozy meal experience.
- Bread Rolls: Soft rolls can be served warm on the side, perfect for soaking up any juices from the crisp.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Easy Apple Crisp with Oats can be straightforward, but some common mistakes can affect the final result. Here are a few pitfalls to watch for.
- Overcooking the apples: If you cook the apples too long before baking, they can turn mushy. Toss them lightly with the other ingredients and bake them just until tender.
- Using the wrong apple variety: Not all apples are suitable for crisp. Choose firm varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp to ensure a good texture.
- Skipping the resting time: Serving immediately can lead to runny filling. Allowing it to rest for 15β20 minutes helps thicken the juices.
- Packing the topping too tightly: Pressing down on the oat topping can make it dense instead of crispy. Sprinkle it loosely for a better crunch.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: Baking is a science, so be precise with your measurements for balanced flavors and textures.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Keep in a cool area of the refrigerator to maintain freshness.
Freezing Easy Apple Crisp with Oats (Crispy, Buttery Topping)
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil or use a freezer-safe container.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Easy Apple Crisp with Oats (Crispy, Buttery Topping)
- Oven: Preheat to 350Β°F and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat individual portions on high for about 30-60 seconds or until warm.
- Stovetop: Place in a pan over medium heat and stir occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Easy Apple Crisp with Oats (Crispy, Buttery Topping)?
Easy Apple Crisp with Oats is a delightful dessert featuring soft apples topped with a crunchy oat mixture that bakes into a buttery crust.
Can I use different fruits in this recipe?
Yes! You can customize this recipe by using other fruits like pears or berries, adjusting sugar levels as needed.
How do I make Easy Apple Crisp with Oats gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, substitute regular flour and oats with certified gluten-free options while keeping all other ingredients the same.
How long does Easy Apple Crisp with Oats last at room temperature?
It is best enjoyed fresh but can sit at room temperature for about 2 hours before needing refrigeration.
Can I prepare Easy Apple Crisp with Oats ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge before baking. Just add extra time when baking if itβs cold from the fridge.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Apple Crisp with Oats (Crispy, Buttery Topping) is not only simple to prepare but also offers endless possibilities for customization. You can experiment with various fruits or add nuts and spices to suit your taste. Enjoy this delicious dessert warm, perhaps topped with ice cream or whipped cream, making it perfect for any occasion!

Easy Apple Crisp with Oats (Crispy, Buttery Topping)
- Author: Adeline
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves 8
Description
Indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of Easy Apple Crisp with Oats (Crispy, Buttery Topping). This delightful dessert features tender, spiced apples nestled beneath a buttery oat crust that bakes to perfection. Itβs an effortless recipe that requires minimal ingredients and time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings. With its cozy aroma filling your kitchen, this apple crisp is sure to impress family and friends alike. Serve it warm with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat. Dive into this classic dessert and savor every bite!
Ingredients
- 6β7 medium apples (Granny Smith + Honeycrisp blend)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp fine salt
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375Β°F.
- Peel, core, and slice the apples into 1/4-inch thick slices. Toss them with lemon juice, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a bowl.
- Spread the apple mixture evenly in a 9Γ9-inch baking dish.
- In another bowl, mix oats, flour, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Cut in cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Sprinkle the topping evenly over the apples without pressing down.
- Bake for 40β45 minutes until golden brown and bubbly. Let cool for 15β20 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8 recipe (approximately 130g)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: Experiment with different apple varieties for unique flavors. For added crunch, consider mixing in chopped nuts or dried fruits into the topping. This apple crisp can be easily made gluten-free by using certified gluten-free oats and flour.









