Apple Crisp with Oat Streusel is a delightful, cozy dessert that combines warm, tender apples with a crunchy, buttery oat topping. The sweet and tart flavor of the apples pairs perfectly with the nutty, crumbly streusel made from oats, brown sugar, and a hint of cinnamon. It’s the kind of dessert that feels like a big, comforting hug on a plate.
I love making this apple crisp when the weather starts to cool down because it fills the house with such a wonderful aroma. One little tip I always follow is to mix a bit of melted butter into the oat topping to get that perfect balance of crispiness and chew. It’s simple but makes all the difference in the world. Plus, it’s a dessert that almost everyone loves because it’s not too sweet and has a lovely mix of textures.
My favorite way to enjoy this apple crisp is straight out of the oven with a scoop of vanilla ice cream melting on top. The contrast between the warm fruit and the cold ice cream is just amazing. It’s also a great dessert to share with family or friends because it feels special yet is super easy to make. Every bite reminds me of happy fall afternoons and cozy nights in, and I hope you find the same joy when you try it!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: Tart apples like Granny Smith work best because they hold their shape and balance the sweetness. If you prefer a softer texture, try Fuji or Honeycrisp.
Oats: Rolled oats give a nice chewy texture to the streusel topping. For a gluten-free option, use certified gluten-free oats.
Butter: Melted unsalted butter helps the topping crisp up nicely. You can swap in coconut oil for a dairy-free version, but the flavor will change slightly.
Brown Sugar: This adds moisture and a deep sweetness to your topping. Light or dark brown sugar both work well according to your taste.
How Do I Get a Crispy, But Not Burnt, Oat Streusel Topping?
To achieve a perfectly crisp but not burnt topping, follow these tips:
- Mix melted butter evenly with dry ingredients to coat oats well—this helps them toast instead of burn.
- Spread the topping in an even layer over the apples. A thick pile can burn on the edges before the apples cook.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C), not higher, to allow slow browning.
- Check the crisp in the last 10 minutes; if edges brown too fast, loosely cover with foil.
Patience is key—slow baking lets the flavors develop and the topping crisp up just right!
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×9-inch baking dish – perfect size for even baking and easy serving.
- Mixing bowls – at least two, to keep apple mixture and oat topping separate.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient amounts.
- Spoon or spatula – for mixing and spreading the topping evenly.
- Peeler and knife – to peel and slice the apples with ease.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the oat topping for extra crunch and a nutty flavor.
- Mix in a teaspoon of ground ginger or cardamom for a warm, spicy twist.
- Swap some apples for pears to make a milder, sweeter fruit blend.
- Stir in dried cranberries or raisins into the apple filling for bursts of tartness.
Apple Crisp with Oat Streusel
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Apple Filling:
- 6 cups peeled and sliced tart apples (such as Granny Smith)
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
For the Oat Streusel Topping:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For Serving (Optional):
- Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream
Time Needed:
Plan for about 15 minutes to prepare the ingredients and assemble the crisp, plus 45 to 50 minutes baking time. Allow an extra 10 minutes to cool before serving. So, around 1 hour and 15 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Apples:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish. In a large mixing bowl, toss the peeled and sliced apples with granulated sugar, brown sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and flour. Stir well until the apples are fully coated with the mixture.
2. Make the Oat Streusel Topping:
In a separate bowl, combine the rolled oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Pour the melted butter over this mixture and stir until it forms a crumbly texture where the oats are evenly coated.
3. Assemble and Bake:
Spread the apple mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. Next, sprinkle the oat streusel topping evenly over the apples. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, until the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown and crisp.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Let the apple crisp cool for about 10 minutes before serving. Serve warm, optionally topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra special treat. Enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Apples for Apple Crisp?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before using to avoid a soggy crisp. Pat the apples dry if needed.
How Should I Store Leftover Apple Crisp?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven to keep the topping crispy.
Can I Substitute the Butter in the Streusel Topping?
Absolutely! You can use coconut oil or a dairy-free margarine if you want a vegan or dairy-free option. The flavor and texture may vary slightly but will still be delicious.
Is It Possible to Make Apple Crisp Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can assemble the crisp a few hours ahead and keep it covered in the fridge. Bake it fresh before serving for the best texture and flavor.