Apple crisp is a timeless dessert that brings warmth and comfort to any table. Our twist on this classic features a crunchy granola topping that adds extra texture and flavor, making it a perfect treat for fall or any time you crave something sweet and satisfying.
Using granola in place of the traditional crumble gives this apple crisp a delightful nutty crunch and a wholesome touch. It’s a simple way to elevate a familiar favorite without complicating the recipe.
Ingredients
To craft the perfect Apple Crisp Recipe With Granola Topping, we carefully select fresh ingredients that balance sweetness, tartness, and crunch. Below are the essential components for each part of this delightful dessert.
For the Apple Filling
- 6 large Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice, freshly squeezed
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
For the Granola Topping
- 1 1/2 cups granola, preferably with nuts and dried fruit for extra texture
- 1/2 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/3 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
| Ingredient Category | Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apple Filling | Granny Smith apples | 6 large | Peeled, cored, sliced |
| Granulated sugar | 1/2 cup | – | |
| Brown sugar | 1/4 cup | Packed | |
| Lemon juice | 1 tablespoon | Freshly squeezed | |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 teaspoon | – | |
| Ground nutmeg | 1/4 teaspoon | – | |
| All-purpose flour | 2 tablespoons | – | |
| Granola Topping | Granola | 1 1/2 cups | Preferably with nuts and dried fruit |
| Rolled oats | 1/2 cup | Old-fashioned | |
| Brown sugar | 1/3 cup | Packed | |
| Ground cinnamon | 1/2 teaspoon | – | |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon | – | |
| Unsalted butter | 1/4 cup | Melted |
This combination of tart apples with a spiced, sweet filling paired with a crunchy, wholesome granola topping captures the essence of fall flavors while adding a refreshing twist.
Equipment Needed
To create our Apple Crisp Recipe With Granola Topping flawlessly, having the right equipment is essential. Let’s list the tools that will help us prepare the dish efficiently and ensure perfect baking results.
Essential Tools for Preparation
- Mixing Bowls: We need at least two medium bowls—one for the apple filling and one for the granola topping. Glass or stainless steel bowls work best for easy mixing.
- Peeler and Corer: For peeling, coring, and slicing the apples precisely.
- Sharp Knife: A chef’s knife to slice the apples uniformly for even cooking.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements for sugars, spices, flour, oats, and butter are crucial.
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: For mixing ingredients without damaging bowls or release the mixture effortlessly.
Baking and Cooking Equipment
- 9×13-inch Baking Dish: A ceramic or glass dish to bake the crisp evenly and to showcase the golden granola topping beautifully.
- Oven: Preheated to 350°F (175°C) for consistent baking.
- Cooling Rack: For cooling the baked apple crisp before serving to enhance flavor and texture.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Mixing Bowls | Combine filling and topping ingredients |
| Peeler and Corer | Prepare apples |
| Chef’s Knife | Slice apples uniformly |
| Measuring Cups/Spoons | Measure precise ingredient quantities |
| Wooden Spoon/Spatula | Mix ingredients thoroughly |
| 9×13-inch Baking Dish | Bake apple crisp |
| Oven | Cook at 350°F (175°C) |
| Cooling Rack | Cool finished dessert |
“Using the proper equipment ensures every step—from peeling apples to achieving a crisp golden granola topping—goes smoothly.”
With these tools ready, we’ll move seamlessly into mixing and baking our apple crisp with granola topping, capturing the perfect balance of cozy fall flavors and crunchy texture.
Prep Work
Before we combine all the flavors of our Apple Crisp Recipe With Granola Topping, diligent prep work is essential to ensure every bite bursts with texture and taste. Let’s start by getting the apples and granola topping perfectly ready.
Preparing the Apples
To build the flavorful foundation, we begin with the apples. Here’s how to prep them step-by-step:
- Choose 6 large Granny Smith apples for the ideal balance of tartness and sweetness.
- Peel and core each apple using a sharp peeler and corer to remove skins and seeds thoroughly.
- Slice the apples evenly into 1/4-inch thick pieces using a sharp knife, ensuring uniform cooking.
- Toss the sliced apples gently with:
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
This mixture creates a perfectly spiced and balanced apple filling, thickening slightly as it bakes.
| Ingredient | Measurement | Prep Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Granny Smith apples | 6 large | Peeled, cored, sliced 1/4″ |
| Granulated sugar | 1/4 cup | |
| Brown sugar | 1/3 cup (packed) | |
| Lemon juice | 1 tablespoon | Freshly squeezed |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 teaspoon | |
| Ground nutmeg | 1/4 teaspoon | |
| All-purpose flour | 2 tablespoons | Helps thicken apple juices |
Making the Granola Topping
Our signature twist is the crunchy granola topping that elevates this classic dessert. Here’s how we craft it:
- Combine in a mixing bowl:
- 2 cups granola (choose one with nuts and dried fruit for added texture and flavor)
- 1/2 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/3 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Pour 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter over the dry mixture.
- Stir thoroughly with a wooden spoon or silicone spatula until all the granola and oats are evenly coated.
This process ensures the topping is full of crispy, buttery flavor that toasts perfectly in the oven, complementing our warm spiced apples.
| Ingredient | Measurement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Granola (with nuts/fruit) | 2 cups | Provides crunch and flavor |
| Old-fashioned rolled oats | 1/2 cup | Adds rustic texture |
| Brown sugar (packed) | 1/3 cup | Sweetens and caramelizes |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 teaspoon | Infuses warmth |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon | Balances sweetness |
| Unsalted butter (melted) | 1/2 cup | Binds topping, adds richness |
With our apples prepped and granola topping ready, we are set to layer and bake this cozy Apple Crisp with Granola Topping masterpiece.
Directions
Follow these steps carefully to assemble and bake our Apple Crisp Recipe With Granola Topping perfectly every time.
Assembling the Apple Crisp
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even baking.
- Transfer the prepared apple filling into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread the apples evenly to create a uniform base layer.
- Sprinkle the granola topping evenly over the apples, making sure to cover every part to seal in flavors and add that signature crunchy texture.
- Gently press the granola topping down with the back of a spoon to help it adhere but avoid compacting it too much; we want to preserve the crispiness.
“Layering is key for the perfect bite—each spoonful should balance warm spiced apples with the crispy granola topping.“
Baking Instructions
| Step | Temperature | Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bake | 350°F | 45-50 minutes | Apples should be tender and bubbling |
| Cool | Room Temp. | 10-15 minutes | Helps set the topping for easy serving |
- Place the assembled dish on the center rack of your preheated oven.
- Bake for 45 to 50 minutes until the apples are tender and the granola topping is golden brown.
- Look for bubbling juice around the edges—that’s a sign the filling is perfectly cooked.
- Remove from the oven and allow it to cool for 10 to 15 minutes at room temperature.
- Serve warm, optionally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra indulgence.
Serving Suggestions
To fully enjoy our Apple Crisp Recipe With Granola Topping, we recommend serving it warm. Allow the crisp to cool for about 10 to 15 minutes after baking so the juices settle and the flavors deepen.
Pairings to Enhance Flavor
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic choice, the creamy, cold texture contrasts beautifully with the warm, crunchy granola topping.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzle a warm caramel sauce on top to amplify the apple’s natural sweetness and add a luscious, sticky finish.
- Whipped Cream: Lightly sweetened whipped cream adds an airy richness, balancing the denser granola texture.
- Greek Yogurt: For a tangy, healthier option, a dollop of Greek yogurt complements the cinnamon and apple flavors with its subtle tartness.
Beverage Pairings
Our apple crisp pairs wonderfully with beverages that bring out its fall-inspired spices:
| Beverage | Flavor Profile | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Hot Apple Cider | Warm, spiced apple | Enhances apple and cinnamon notes |
| Chai Tea | Spiced, creamy | Complements nutmeg and cinnamon |
| Coffee (light roast) | Smooth, slightly acidic | Balances sweetness and richness |
| Dessert Wine (Late Harvest Riesling) | Sweet, fruity | Matches natural fruit sweetness |
Presentation Tips
- Serve the crisp in individual ramekins for a cozy, personal touch.
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves or a sprinkle of chopped nuts from the granola topping.
- Layer the crisp over toasted pound cake or waffles for an indulgent brunch twist.
“The key to serving our Apple Crisp Recipe With Granola Topping is balancing warm comforting textures with cool creamy elements for a truly memorable dessert experience.”
By adopting these serving suggestions we transform a simple dessert into an elevated homemade treat perfect for gatherings, holidays, or any season.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
To maintain the delightful crunch of our Apple Crisp Recipe With Granola Topping and keep the flavors vibrant, proper storage and preparation ahead of time are crucial. Here are our optimized tips:
Refrigeration
- Allow the apple crisp to cool completely after baking, about 10 to 15 minutes.
- Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent moisture loss.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to keep fresh and safe to eat.
- When ready to serve, reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15 to 20 minutes, uncovered, to restore the crunchy granola texture.
Freezing
- For longer storage, transfer cooled apple crisp into an airtight freezer-safe container.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheat as above for the best texture and flavor preservation.
Make-Ahead Assembly
- Prepare the apple filling and granola topping separately in advance.
- Store each component in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
- Assemble just before baking to ensure the topping stays crisp and does not soften prematurely.
Quick Reference Storage Table
| Storage Method | Procedure | Duration | Reheating Tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | Cool completely, cover tightly | Up to 4 days | Reheat at 350°F for 15-20 minutes |
| Freezing | Cool, store airtight container | Up to 3 months | Thaw overnight, reheat same as above |
| Make-Ahead | Prepare filling and topping separately | Up to 24 hours | Assemble before baking |
Pro Tip: To keep the granola topping at peak crunchiness after reheating, consider adding an extra sprinkle of fresh granola right before serving.
By following these storage and make-ahead tips, we ensure our apple crisp stays moist with a perfectly textured granola topping—ready to delight at any moment.
Conclusion
This apple crisp with granola topping brings a fresh, crunchy twist to a timeless dessert. It’s easy to make yet impressively flavorful, perfect for cozy fall evenings or any time you want a comforting treat.
By swapping out the traditional crumble for granola, we add texture and a wholesome touch that makes every bite satisfying. Whether served warm with ice cream or enjoyed on its own, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in our kitchen.
With simple prep and flexible storage options, it’s a dessert that fits seamlessly into our busy lives while delivering big on taste. Give it a try and enjoy a delicious way to celebrate the flavors of the season.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the granola topping different from a traditional apple crisp topping?
The granola topping adds extra crunch, flavor, and a wholesome touch by incorporating nuts, dried fruit, and oats, replacing the usual buttery crumble for a unique texture and taste.
What type of apples should I use for this recipe?
Granny Smith apples are recommended for their tart flavor and firm texture, which balance the sweetness and hold up well during baking.
How long do I bake the apple crisp and at what temperature?
Bake the apple crisp at 350°F (175°C) for 45 to 50 minutes, until the apples are tender and the topping turns golden brown.
Can I prepare any parts of this apple crisp recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the apple filling and granola topping separately and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before assembling and baking.
How should I store leftovers to maintain crunchiness?
Let the apple crisp cool completely, then cover and refrigerate for up to 4 days. For the best crunch, sprinkle fresh granola on top before serving.
What are some good serving suggestions for this apple crisp?
Serve warm with vanilla ice cream, caramel sauce, whipped cream, or Greek yogurt. It pairs well with hot apple cider, chai tea, light roast coffee, or dessert wine.
What equipment is needed to make this apple crisp?
You’ll need mixing bowls, a peeler and corer, a sharp knife, measuring cups and spoons, and a 9×13-inch baking dish for perfect results.
Can this recipe be frozen for later use?
Yes, the baked apple crisp can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating and adding fresh granola.