Apple crisp is a timeless dessert that brings warmth and comfort to any table. By adding granola to the classic apple crisp, we give it an exciting twist that adds extra crunch and a delightful nutty flavor. This version is perfect for those who love a bit of texture and a wholesome touch in their sweets.
Using granola not only enhances the taste but also makes the topping more nutritious without sacrificing that irresistible crispiness. Whether you’re serving it as a cozy family dessert or a crowd-pleaser at gatherings, this apple crisp with granola will quickly become a favorite. Let’s dive into this easy recipe that combines the best of fall flavors with a modern, crunchy upgrade.
Ingredients
To create our Apple Crisp Recipe With Granola, we carefully select ingredients that balance sweetness, texture, and flavor. Below are the essential components broken down into two main parts: the apple filling and the granola topping.
For the Apple Filling
We start with crisp, tart apples and enhance them with warm spices and natural sweeteners to bring out the classic fall flavors:
- 6 medium-sized apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (for deeper caramel notes)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (to prevent browning and add brightness)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (helps thicken the filling as it bakes)
For the Granola Topping
The granola topping combines crunch, nuttiness, and a touch of sweetness, creating the signature texture in this recipe:
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Rolled oats | 1 1/2 cups | Old-fashioned for best texture |
| Granola (store-bought or homemade) | 1 cup | Adds extra crunch and flavor |
| Brown sugar | 1/3 cup | Light or dark, for sweetness |
| Chopped nuts | 1/2 cup | Walnuts, pecans, or almonds |
| Ground cinnamon | 1/2 teaspoon | Warm spice to complement apples |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon | Balances sweetness |
| Unsalted butter | 1/2 cup (1 stick), melted | Binds topping and adds richness |
This combination guarantees a perfectly balanced apple crisp with a deliciously crunchy granola twist to soothe every fall craving.
Equipment Needed
To create our Apple Crisp Recipe With Granola perfectly, having the right equipment on hand is essential. Here is the list of tools we rely on to make the process smooth and efficient:
- Mixing bowls – Use at least two; one for the apple filling and one for the granola topping.
- Measuring cups and spoons – Precise measurements ensure balance of sweetness and spice.
- Peeler and corer – For preparing the apples quickly and uniformly.
- Knife and cutting board – To chop apples and nuts accurately.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – For gently combining ingredients without breaking the apple slices.
- 9×13 inch baking dish – Provides even heat distribution for baking and perfect crisp formation.
- Oven mitts – For safe handling of the hot baking dish.
- Aluminum foil or baking sheet – Optional for placing under the baking dish to catch any spills.
The table below summarizes the key tools and their purposes:
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Mixing bowls | Combine and mix filling and topping |
| Measuring cups/spoons | Accurately measure ingredients |
| Peeler and corer | Prepare apples efficiently |
| Knife and cutting board | Chop apples and nuts uniformly |
| Wooden spoon/spatula | Mix ingredients without crushing fruit |
| 9×13 inch baking dish | Bake the apple crisp evenly |
| Oven mitts | Handle hot cookware safely |
| Aluminum foil/baking sheet | Catch drips and keep oven clean |
Having these items ready allows us to focus on creating that perfect apple crisp with granola texture and flavor without interruption.
Instructions
Follow these clear steps to create our Apple Crisp Recipe With Granola that balances tender, spiced apples with a crunchy, nutty topping.
Prep the Apples
- Peel, core, and slice 6-7 medium tart apples—preferably Granny Smith—for the best texture and tang.
- Place the sliced apples in a large mixing bowl.
- Add 1/3 cup brown sugar, 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg to the apples.
- Toss the mixture gently until the apple slices are evenly coated with the spices and sugar.
- Set the coated apples aside to marinate while we prepare the granola topping.
Prepare the Granola Topping
- In a separate bowl, combine the following ingredients:
| Ingredient | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Rolled oats | 1 cup |
| Granola | 1 cup |
| Brown sugar | 1/2 cup |
| Chopped nuts | 1/2 cup (walnuts or pecans) |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon |
- Stir these dry ingredients thoroughly to combine the flavors.
- Melt 1/2 cup unsalted butter and pour it evenly over the oat and nut mixture.
- Mix thoroughly until the topping is lightly moistened and crumbly with a rich buttery finish.
Assemble the Apple Crisp
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
- Spread the spiced apple mixture evenly in the bottom of the baking dish.
- Sprinkle the prepared granola topping evenly over the apples, making sure to cover the entire surface for a uniform crispiness.
- Lightly press down the topping with a spatula to create a compact, crunchy layer.
Bake the Apple Crisp
- Place the assembled dish in the preheated oven.
- Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apple filling is bubbling at the edges.
- If the topping browns too quickly, loosely cover the dish with aluminum foil during the last 10-15 minutes of baking.
- Remove from the oven and allow the crisp to cool for at least 15 minutes.
- Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to highlight the crisp, nutty crunch from the granola topping.
Serving Suggestions
To fully enjoy our Apple Crisp Recipe With Granola we recommend serving it warm straight from the oven. The combination of the hot apple filling and crunchy granola topping delivers a satisfying mix of textures and aromas.
Ideal Accompaniments
- Vanilla ice cream: A classic pairing that melts slowly over the crisp creating a creamy contrast to the crunchy granola topping.
- Whipped cream: Adds a light, airy richness that complements the warm spices in the apple filling.
- Custard or crème anglaise: For an elegant twist, pour a warm vanilla custard over the serving.
Beverage Pairings
- Hot apple cider or spiced tea enhances the cozy fall flavors.
- Coffee or espresso balances the sweetness with robust bitterness.
- Dessert wine such as late-harvest Riesling adds a sophisticated touch.
Presentation Tips
- Use shallow dessert bowls or ramekins to hold individual servings. This helps maintain the crisp topping’s crunch.
- Sprinkle extra granola or chopped nuts on top just before serving for added texture and visual appeal.
- Add a light dusting of cinnamon or powdered sugar as a final flourish.
| Serving Element | Effect on Dish |
|---|---|
| Vanilla Ice Cream | Creamy contrast to crunchy topping |
| Whipped Cream | Adds airy richness |
| Custard | Elegant and smooth complement |
| Hot Apple Cider | Enhances warm fall flavor profile |
| Coffee/Espresso | Balances sweetness with bitterness |
| Dessert Wine | Sophisticated sweet pairing |
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
To enjoy our Apple Crisp Recipe With Granola with maximum convenience and flavor, here are expert make-ahead and storage strategies that keep the texture crisp and the flavors vibrant.
Make-Ahead Preparation
- Assemble the apple filling in advance. Peel, core, slice, and mix the apples with spices, brown sugar, and flour. Store this mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This allows the flavors to meld while keeping the apples fresh and crisp.
- Prepare the granola topping separately. Combine the oats, granola, brown sugar, nuts, cinnamon, salt, and melted butter. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Keep it dry to preserve the crunchy texture.
- When ready to bake, layer the chilled apple filling and granola topping in the baking dish. This approach lets us save time on the day of serving and ensures a fresh-baked crispy top.
Baking from Refrigerated or Frozen
- If baking directly from the refrigerator, increase the baking time by 5 to 10 minutes. Cover with foil if browning too quickly.
- For longer storage, freeze the assembled crisp (before baking) in a tightly wrapped dish for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking for best results.
Storage After Baking
- Store leftover apple crisp in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days.
- To enjoy again, reheat individual servings at 350°F (175°C) for 10 to 15 minutes or until warm and crisp on top.
- Avoid microwaving if possible, as it may soften the granola topping.
Freezing Baked Apple Crisp
- Allow the crisp to cool completely.
- Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil or place in a freezer-safe container.
- Freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheat covered at 350°F (175°C) for 25 to 30 minutes. Uncover the last 5 minutes to restore crunch.
Summary Table: Make-Ahead and Storage Guidelines
| Step | Storage Method | Time Frame | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apple filling (raw) | Airtight container, fridge | Up to 24 hours | Retains freshness and flavor |
| Granola topping (dry) | Airtight container, room temp | Up to 2 days | Keep dry to maintain crunch |
| Assembled crisp (unbaked) | Wrapped, freezer | Up to 3 months | Thaw overnight before baking |
| Baked apple crisp | Airtight container, fridge | Up to 4 days | Reheat in oven for best texture |
| Baked apple crisp (frozen) | Wrapped, freezer | Up to 2 months | Reheat covered, uncover to crisp |
Pro Tip: “For the crispiest topping upon reheating, always use an oven instead of a microwave. The dry heat revives the granola’s crunch without sogginess.”
Using these techniques, we ensure our Apple Crisp with Granola stays delicious and hassle-free for gatherings or spontaneous indulgences.
Conclusion
This Apple Crisp Recipe With Granola brings a fresh twist to a timeless favorite. The blend of tart apples and crunchy granola creates a dessert that’s both comforting and exciting. It’s perfect for sharing with family or impressing guests at any gathering.
With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, we can enjoy a delicious fall treat that satisfies cravings and adds a nutritious boost. Whether served warm with ice cream or enjoyed on its own, this crisp is sure to become a staple in our dessert rotation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the granola topping special in this apple crisp recipe?
The granola topping adds extra crunch and a nutty flavor that enhances the traditional apple crisp. It also boosts nutritional value with oats and nuts, creating a delicious, textured contrast to the soft apple filling.
What kind of apples should I use for this apple crisp?
Use crisp, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best flavor and texture. These varieties balance sweetness and acidity, making the dessert more flavorful.
What ingredients are needed for the granola topping?
The granola topping includes rolled oats, granola, brown sugar, chopped nuts, cinnamon, salt, and melted butter. These combine to create a crunchy, flavorful layer.
How long should I bake the apple crisp?
Bake it at 350°F (175°C) for 40 to 45 minutes, until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
Can I prepare any parts of the apple crisp recipe ahead of time?
Yes, the apple filling can be prepared and refrigerated for up to 24 hours. The granola topping can be made and stored at room temperature for up to 2 days.
How should I store leftovers to maintain the crisp’s texture?
Baked leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat before serving to keep the granola topping crunchy.
What are the best serving suggestions for this apple crisp?
Serve warm with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or custard. Pair it with hot apple cider, coffee, or dessert wine for a full fall dessert experience.
What equipment do I need to make this recipe?
You’ll need mixing bowls, measuring cups and spoons, a peeler and corer, knife, cutting board, spatula or wooden spoon, a 9×13 inch baking dish, oven mitts, and optionally aluminum foil or baking sheet.
Can this recipe be frozen before baking?
Yes, the unbaked apple crisp can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw before baking for best results.
Is this apple crisp suitable for large gatherings?
Absolutely! The recipe scales well and is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for family get-togethers or bigger events.