π A Historical Bite of Apple Crisp
Apple crisp is a beloved dessert that dates back to the early 20th century. Unlike pies, which require a crust, crisps gained popularity during the Great Depression when flour, butter, and sugar were more accessible than pastry ingredients. The dish originated in America and quickly became a fall favorite, especially in New England, where apples are abundant. Today, itβs a cozy classic enjoyed warm with a scoop of ice cream, making it one of the most comforting desserts in American kitchens.

Cinnamon Apple Crisp β Easy & Delicious Homemade Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This cinnamon apple crisp is warm, buttery, and perfectly spicedβa comforting dessert thatβs ideal for chilly fall evenings or festive holiday gatherings. The golden oat topping adds a delightful crunch, while the tender apples create a sweet, melt-in-your-mouth filling. Whether served fresh out of the oven with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoyed the next day, this easy recipe is a timeless treat that brings family and friends together.
Ingredients
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6 medium apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
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2 tbsp lemon juice
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Β½ cup granulated sugar
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1 tsp ground cinnamon
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ΒΌ tsp nutmeg
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1 cup old-fashioned oats
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Β½ cup all-purpose flour
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Β½ cup brown sugar, packed
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Β½ cup unsalted butter, melted
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Pinch of salt
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C). Grease a 9Γ13-inch baking dish.
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Toss sliced apples with lemon juice, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Spread evenly in the baking dish.
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In a bowl, combine oats, flour, brown sugar, salt, and melted butter until crumbly.
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Sprinkle topping evenly over apples.
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Bake for 40β45 minutes until topping is golden brown and apples are tender.
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Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

Notes
Substitute pears or peaches for a fruity twist.
Use gluten-free oats and flour to make this recipe gluten-free.
For extra crunch, add chopped walnuts or pecans to the topping.
β FAQ Section (Extended for Engagement)
1. Can I make apple crisp ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the apple filling and topping separately, refrigerate for up to 24 hours, and assemble right before baking. This ensures the topping stays crisp and not soggy.
2. What are the best apples for apple crisp?
A mix of tart and sweet apples works best. Try Granny Smith for tartness and Honeycrisp or Fuji for sweetness. Combining different varieties gives a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
3. Can I freeze apple crisp?
Absolutely! Bake, cool completely, then wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350Β°F until warmed through. Itβs a great make-ahead dessert for holidays.
