Old Fashioned Easy Apple Crisp

Apple crisp is the quintessential fall dessert—warm, spiced apples bubbling beneath a golden oat crumble, just begging for a scoop of vanilla ice cream. This old-fashioned recipe brings together simplicity and comfort, with just the right balance of sweetness and spice. Whether you’re baking for a holiday crowd or just craving a cozy evening treat, this apple crisp is easy to make and even easier to love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic comfort: Tastes just like Grandma used to make.
• Simple ingredients: Pantry staples come together quickly.
• Crispy oat topping: Golden, buttery, and perfectly textured.
• Customizable apples: Use what you have—Granny Smith, Fuji, Gala, or Golden Delicious.
• Freezer & make-ahead friendly: Bake now or later.

Ingredients

Spiced Apple Base

• 6 medium golden delicious apples, peeled and chopped (6–7 cups)
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• ¾ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1½ teaspoons lemon juice

Crisp Topping

• 1 cup light brown sugar
• ¾ cup old-fashioned oats
• ¾ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Pinch of kosher salt
• ½ cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes

Instructions

1. Prep the oven & dish
   Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Butter an 8×8-inch baking dish or coat it with non-stick spray.
2. Spice the apples
   In a mixing bowl, toss apples with sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Transfer to the prepared dish and spread into an even layer.
3. Make the crisp topping
   In a second bowl, combine brown sugar, oats, flour, cinnamon, and salt. Add cold butter and use a pastry cutter (or forks/hands) to work it in until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Assemble and bake
   Sprinkle topping evenly over the apples and gently press it down. Bake uncovered for 40–50 minutes, until bubbly and golden brown.
5. Cool slightly and serve
   Let rest for 10 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 6 generous portions
• Total Time: ~1 hour

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Approximate)

• Calories: ~420
• Carbs: 68g
• Sugar: 39g
• Fat: 16g
• Protein: 3g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sodium: 100mg

Note: Values may vary based on apple variety and brands used.

Tips & Variations

• Apple options: Try Granny Smith for tartness or Fuji for extra sweetness.
• Leave the peels on: For extra fiber and rustic texture—just wash apples thoroughly.
• Add crunch: Mix chopped pecans or walnuts into the topping.
• Spice it up: Add nutmeg or allspice for deeper flavor.
• Make ahead: Bake fully, cool, and refrigerate overnight. Reheat at 350°F for 30 minutes.

Old Fashioned Apple Crisp

This classic apple crisp is sweet, spiced, and finished with a buttery oat topping. Easy to make and perfect for fall gatherings or cozy nights in.

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Equipment

• – 8×8-inch baking dish
• – Vegetable peeler (optional)
• Mixing bowls
• – Pastry cutter or forks

Ingredients

  

• #### Spiced Apples
• – 6 golden delicious apples peeled and chopped (6–7 cups)
• – 2 tbsp granulated sugar
• – ¾ tsp ground cinnamon
• – 1½ tsp lemon juice
• #### Crisp Topping
• – 1 cup light brown sugar
• – ¾ cup old-fashioned oats
• – ¾ cup all-purpose flour
• – 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• – Pinch kosher salt
• – ½ cup cold unsalted butter cubed

Instructions

 

• Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease an 8×8 baking dish.
• In a bowl, mix apples, sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Add to dish.
• In another bowl, combine topping ingredients. Cut in butter until crumbly.
• Sprinkle topping over apples. Bake 40–50 min until golden and bubbling.
• Cool slightly. Serve warm with ice cream or whipped cream.

Notes

– Make-ahead friendly
– Store in fridge for up to 3 days
– Freeze after baking and cooling for up to 2 months

FAQs

Can I make apple crisp ahead of time?

Yes! Bake it, cool it, then refrigerate. Reheat in the oven when ready to serve.

Should I peel the apples?

Totally optional. Peeled apples create a softer texture; unpeeled adds more bite.

Can I freeze apple crisp?

Yes, after baking and cooling. Wrap tightly and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw in fridge overnight before reheating.

Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats?

You can! The texture will be slightly softer but still delicious.

Conclusion

If you’re craving the cozy flavors of fall, this apple crisp is a must-bake. It’s sweet, spiced, and ridiculously satisfying—especially with a scoop of melting vanilla ice cream on top. Make it once, and it’ll become your go-to for gatherings, potlucks, or just a quiet night in.