This classic fall dessert is super simple to make and full of fall inspired flavors! When you want that warm and cozy fall feeling, this is the dessert you need to make. Grab your apples and let’s make this old fashioned apple crisp together!

There are some flavor combinations that instantly give off cozy vibes. For me, when you mix together apples and cinnamon, I immediately think of fall. The cooler breezes, the crisp mornings, the crinkle of the falling leaves under my feet. This old fashioned apple crisp is one of those desserts that has all the right flavors to bring fall right into your kitchen – any time of year!

What is apple crisp?

There is a wide variety of apple based desserts such as apple pie, apple crisp and apple betty. The difference is apple crisp is made with sliced apples and topped with an oat based crumble before baking it. The apple crisp gets its name from the “crisp” oat topping that forms over the apples. (Apple pie is sliced apples baked in a pie crust and apple betty is baked breadcrumbs on top of apples.)

Old fashioned apple crisp ingredients

Some of the many things that I love about this apple crisp is that the ingredients are easy to find and budget friendly! To make an old fashioned apple crisp at home you will need:

• apples
• sugar
• spices
• cornstarch
• lemon juice
• oats
• flour
• butter
• walnuts

Apples – The best apples for baking are granny Smiths and honey crisps. These apples don’t break down as much during baking so they are still slightly crisp and retain their shape well.

Sugar – Both white and brown sugar are needed for this apple crisp.

Spices – ALLLLL the fall spices are needed for this one! Grab cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice and salt for this one.

Cornstarch – This is used in the apple portion and helps bind everything together.

Oats/flour – Feel free to use any type of oats or flour here. These are used for the topping of the apple crisp.

Butter – Cold butter will be used to make the crisp topping. I like to use unsalted butter but use whatever you have on hand.

Walnuts – Nuts in the apple crisp are optional, but I prefer walnuts. You can use walnuts, pecans or even sliced almonds here.

How to make a baked apple crisp

This apple crisp recipe can be broken down into two parts – the apple base and the oat crumble topping. Let’s start with the apples first.

Step 1: Prepare the filling. In a large mixing bowl combine the sliced apples, cornstarch, lemon, both sugars and the spices. Mix together until well coated and then transfer to a baking dish.

Step 2: Make the topping. Combine together the oats, flour, sugar, and spices. Cut the butter into cubes and use a pastry cutter to work the butter into the mixture. It should have the texture of sand when it’s well incorporated. Stir in the nuts, if using.

Step 3: Assemble and bake. Sprinkle the topping mixture evenly over the sliced apples. Place into a 350 degree pre-heated oven for 35-40 minutes.

Step 4: Cool and enjoy. Remove the from oven and allow to cool slightly. Top with vanilla ice cream and a caramel drizzle for the most perfect fall dessert!

Old fashioned apple crisp tips and FAQs

What type of apples do you need for apple crisp? It is best to use a sturdy apple like granny Smiths or honey crisps. They tend to hold their shape better during baking and don’t turn totally mushy. You can always use any apple you like, but those two are best for making this crisp.

Tip: Use a sharp knife to slice the apples 1/2 inch in thickness.

What spices are needed? Typical fall inspired spices are what you need here – cinnamon, nutmeg and allspice! You can even add some apple pie spice, if you’d like!

Tip: Use either a pastry cutter or your finger tips to break up the cold butter into the crisp topping.

What is the difference between apple crisp and apple betty? The main difference is the topping! The topping for apple betty is made from breadcrumbs while apple crisp has an oat based topping.

Other apple desserts to try

Love apple desserts? Same here! Check out these other apple treats to try:

• Caramel apple dip
• Caramel apple bundt cake
• Apple cider scones
• Apple zucchini muffins
• Individual apple crisps

Storage instructions

This apple crisp is best when eaten fresh, but can be easily stored for later. Place a piece of tinfoil over your baking dish and place it in the fridge. Warm up again in the oven to enjoy again. It will stat fresh in the fridge for up to 5 days after making.

Last minutes tips..

What size baking dish do I need? You will need a 9×9 baking dish. Make sure to grease it with butter or cooking spray before adding the apples.

Tip: Any apple corer will help easily remove the core and save some time.

Is this recipe gluten or dairy free? No, this recipe as is contains both gluten and dairy. If you’d like to make it gluten free – sub out the flour and oats for a gluten free option. (Although oats are naturally gluten free, there are varieties that are free from cross contamination of gluten.) To make this recipe dairy free, sub out the regular butter for coconut oil or your favorite dairy-free butter.

Tip: Try the recipe as is and then add your favorite fall spices to make it truly your own.

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