Cooking method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×9 inch baking dish or a skillet.
- Peel, core, and slice the apples into 1/4-inch thick slices. Toss them in a large bowl with the flour, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice (if using) until well combined. Spread the apple mixture evenly in your prepared dish.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
- Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Using your fingertips, a pastry blender, or two forks, combine until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with some small chunks of butter throughout.
- Evenly sprinkle the crisp topping over the apple mixture.
- Bake on a baking sheet for 40-50 minutes, until the topping is golden and the apples are tender.
- Allow the apple crisp to cool for 10-15 minutes before serving. Serve warm, notably with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an added indulgence.
Best ways to enjoy it
Serving Grandma’s Famous Apple Crisp is as delightful as making it! Present it warm, straight out of the oven, and consider pairing it with a luscious scoop of vanilla ice cream or dollops of whipped cream. Add a sprinkle of cinnamon on top for an extra touch. If you want to elevate the experience, serve it alongside a cup of warm apple cider or a steaming mug of coffee for a perfect fall dessert.
How to store & freeze
To keep your leftover apple crisp fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat it in the oven to maintain the crisp topping, or you can microwave individual portions if you’re in a hurry. If you’d like to freeze it, do so before baking: tightly wrap the assembled crisp in plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to 3 months, and when you’re ready to enjoy, bake straight from frozen, adding some time to the cooking process.
Helpful cooking tips
- Choose apples wisely! A mix of sweet and tart is vital for depth of flavor.
- Make sure to let your butter be very cold; it helps create that wonderful crumbly topping.
- Don’t skip the lemon juice! It adds brightness and depth to the apple filling.
- If you want even more flavor, consider adding a handful of chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, to the topping.
Creative twists
Feel adventurous? Consider these fun variations to switch things up:
- Spice it up with a pinch of ginger alongside the cinnamon for a warmer flavor.
- Add a layer of caramel sauce under the crisp for a gooey, sweet surprise.
- For a healthier alternative, replace half of the sugar with apple sauce or maple syrup.
- Try experimenting with different fruits like pears or berries for a flavorful mix.
Your questions answered
How long does it take to make?
Preparation will take about 15-20 minutes, while baking will require 40-50 minutes, totaling around 1 hour to serve.
Can I use different types of apples?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix any varieties you enjoy, just aim for a balance of sweetness and tartness.
How can I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free flour and oats as substitutions, and make sure your sugar is certified gluten-free.
This Grandma’s Famous Apple Crisp is sure to become a cherished recipe in your collection, perfect for gatherings, or simply as a comforting treat on a chilly evening. Enjoy!
