Easy Apple Crisp (Warm and Buttery)

This easy apple crisp is everything you want in a fall dessert: tender cinnamon-spiced apples under a buttery, golden oat crumble. It fills the kitchen with the coziest aroma as it bakes.

Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dessert that always earns seconds.

Why you’ll love this apple crisp

• Cozy and warming: the perfect fall dessert.
• Buttery oat topping: crisp, golden, and irresistible.
• Easy: no pie crust required.
• Great with ice cream: warm and cold, together.

Ingredients you’ll need

A mix of tart and sweet apples, like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp, gives the best flavor and texture.

• 6 apples, peeled and sliced
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 cup rolled oats
• 3/4 cup flour
• 2/3 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup butter, cold and cubed
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

How to make apple crisp (step by step)

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Toss the sliced apples with the sugar, lemon juice, and cinnamon, then spread them in the dish.
3. In a bowl, combine the oats, flour, brown sugar, salt, and cold cubed butter. Rub together with your fingers until crumbly.
4. Sprinkle the crumble evenly over the apples.
5. Bake for 38-42 minutes, until the top is golden and the apples are bubbling. Let cool slightly and serve warm.

Tips for the best results

• Use cold butter and rub it in for the crispiest topping.
• Mix apple varieties for balanced flavor and texture.
• Let it rest a few minutes so the filling thickens.

Variations & substitutions

• Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the topping.
• Toss in a handful of cranberries or pears with the apples.
• Add a pinch of nutmeg for extra warmth.

Storage & make-ahead

Refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave. It also freezes well for up to 2 months.

Frequently asked questions

What apples are best for apple crisp?

A mix of tart and sweet apples like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp works best, holding their shape while baking.

What is the difference between a crisp and a crumble?

A crisp usually has oats in the topping for extra crunch, while a crumble topping is typically just flour, butter, and sugar.

Can I make apple crisp ahead?

Yes. Assemble it a day ahead and refrigerate, then bake when ready, or bake it fully and reheat.

How do I keep the topping crispy?

Reheat leftovers in the oven rather than the microwave, which can soften the crumble.