There’s something about a warm bowl of homemade apple crisp that stirs up nostalgic feelings and a sense of comfort. This classic dessert, with its tender, cinnamon-kissed apples and crunchy topping, is an autumn staple that’s perfect for cozy evenings, family gatherings, or even a simple weeknight treat. After trying countless versions, I can confidently say that this recipe hits all the right notes—it’s quick to whip up, budget-friendly, and nearly guarantees smiles all around.

Why you’ll love this dish

So, why should you roll up your sleeves and make this classic apple crisp? First and foremost, it’s an easy recipe that doesn’t require a kitchen full of fancy gadgets or hard-to-find ingredients. This dish brings together the bright flavors of apples with a hint of spice and a delightful, buttery crunch that makes each bite a heavenly experience. It’s incredibly versatile: enjoy it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top, or savor it cold as breakfast the next morning. Best of all, it’s kid-approved, which makes it a fantastic option for both family dinners and holiday feasts.

"This apple crisp was a hit at our Thanksgiving dinner! The apples were so flavorful, and the topping was perfectly golden. I’ll definitely make this again!" – Sarah H.

How this recipe comes together

Making classic apple crisp is an enjoyable process that can be broken down into a few simple steps. First, you’ll prepare the luscious apple filling, mixing in sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice for brightness. Next, it’s all about the topping—the buttery crumble that transforms this dessert into something extraordinary. Finally, pop it in the oven, and let the magic happen as the aromas fill your kitchen! You’ll love how straightforward and satisfying this recipe is.

What you’ll need

Here’s what you’ll need to gather for a successful classic apple crisp:

• 6 medium apples (Golden Delicious, Granny Smith, or Fuji)
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 1/2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup packed light brown sugar
• 3/4 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• A pinch of kosher salt
• 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes

Feel free to mix and match apple varieties for a more complex flavor profile!