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I am absolutely terrified of saying that this is the best apple crisp or apple crumble recipe, because how can I guarantee it’s the best? I can’t.
However, we all know apple crisp is one of the MVPs of fruit crisps. Plus, I have written a persuasive essay below to explain this easy apple crisp recipe’s deliciousness 😂
This recipe has a thick layer of tart Granny Smith apples that balance the sweetness of the streusel topping. The apples have a bit of flour added so that as they cook, their juices thicken a bit to coat the apples in a smooth sauce. Emphasis on smooth sauce. I promise it’s not soupy nor oddly gelatinous! The apples are just soft and appley? There’s no spices or other flavourings added, so the cooked apples lean more on the fresh versus heavy indulgent side.
Then there’s the streusel. If you haven’t had streusel before, it’s basically a buttery crunchy topping. It’s got a high brown sugar to flour ratio, so the sugars caramelize a bit into a crispy topping with notes of caramel and molasses. There’s also a bit of cinnamon, nutmeg and salt to add some depth. Plus, there’s pecans. They’re toasty, crunchy and taste like candied pecans because they’re baked in brown sugar and butter. Lastly, there’s some oats to add even more texture. Basically, this has the best flavor you could ask for. If you want to double the streusel, I 100% support your decision. The recipe simply isn’t incredibly packed with streusel because the apples are equally wonderful.
The best part about this crisp is that it’s simultaneously light and indulgent because of the combination of tart apples and a rich sweet streusel. It’s one of my favourite apple desserts. Why? Firstly, it’s delicious. Secondly, it’s really easy to make. It’s perfect for when you’re craving apple pie, but don’t want to spend time making a crust. And lastly, I honestly don’t feel that bad about eating a third of the pan at once. Just let me get away with the excuse that apples are healthy okay?
Why you’ll love this apple crisp
- 1 to 1 apple to streusel ratio.
- Soft apple layer that’s not too sweet!
- Crispy toasty streusel full of pecans.
- Melted butter for the streusel, because cutting cold butter in doesn’t make it any better. It’s just extra work and extra dishes (AHMM pastry blender 👀)
Ingredients
- Granny Smith apples: The tartness of Granny Smith apples balances out the sweetness of the streusel. You can also use any other baking apple. If using a sweeter apple like Gala apples, add a teaspoon of lemon juice.
- Maple syrup: Maple syrup helps sweetens the apple mixture so it isn’t too sour, while adding a subtle hint of maple flavour to make the apple crisp extra comforting and cozy! You can substitute it with granulated sugar, coconut sugar, or brown sugar if desired.
- All-purpose flour: Flour is used in the apple mixture to thicken the apple juices into a smooth sauce. It also provides structure for the streusel.
- Brown sugar: The brown sugar caramelizes a bit to make the streusel crisp and sweet, with notes of molasses.
- Cinnamon and nutmeg: Cinnamon and nutmeg add flavour to the streusel.
- Butter: Butter adds flavour and texture to the streusel.
- Pecans: Pecans add a lovely crunch to the streusel. When baked with the brown sugar, they taste just like candied pecans. So unless you’re allergic, don’t omit them!
- Oats: Oats add additional texture.
The ingredient quantities are in the recipe card at the bottom of the post.
Equipment
Make sure you have a kitchen scale for this recipe since most of the measurements are in grams. Using a kitchen scale ensures you get the same results I have! Learn about why I use a kitchen scale here. If you’d like to use measuring spoons and cups, you can use an online recipe converter to change the units to whatever you’re using.
Storage
Store the apple crisp in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you’d like, you can reheat the leftovers in an oven at 350F until warm.
FAQ
No. I designed the recipe so you don’t need the extra step of pre-cooking the apples! After baking for 40 minutes, they will be perfectly soft and tender under the crisp topping.
I like chopping the apples because chunks are easier to scoop up with spoon, but you can slice the apples if desired.
Let’s bake!
Use up all the fresh apples during apple season with this classic dessert. It’s delicious on it’s own, and even better with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
It’s my absolute favorite dessert when I want an easy recipe to satisfy my apple craving, and I hope it can become your personal favorite too!
When you make it, please tag me on Instagram @bakewhenitrains so I can swoon over your homemade apple crisp. Also, don’t forget to leave a comment and rating below. I’d love to hear your feedback!
With love,
Your baking friend Sherene ❤️
Apple crisp
Ingredients
Apple mixture
- 800 grams Granny Smith apples peeled and chopped, around 6 apples
- 3 tbsp maple syrup
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
Streusel
- 50 grams all-purpose flour
- 80 grams brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp table salt
- 70 grams unsalted butter melted
- 50 grams pecans toasted and chopped (you can toast them as the oven preheats for around 3-5 mins, or until fragrant)
- 40 grams old-fashioned oats
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F and grease a square 8×8 baking pan.
Apple mixture
- In a large bowl, combine all the ingredients for the apple filling.
- Pour into the baking pan and spread into an even layer.
Streusel
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg and salt.
- Add butter.
- Mix in the pecans and oats until just combined.
- Transfer the streusel on top of the apples and gently spread into an even layer without pressing it down.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the apples are soft and the crumble is golden brown.
- Cool for at least 15 minutes before serving.
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