Classic Cinnamon Apple Crisp

This homemade apple crisp transforms tart Granny Smith apples into a comforting dessert with a golden oatmeal crumble topping. The crowning glory is a rich homemade caramel sauce that elevates this classic treat to something truly special. Perfect for fall gatherings or whenever you need a dose of nostalgic comfort.

I first discovered this recipe during apple picking season years ago. After coming home with bushels of Granny Smiths, this became my go to solution and has earned a permanent spot in my family's dessert rotation.

Ingredients

• Granny Smith apples: provide the perfect tartness to balance the sweet topping
• Granulated sugar: enhances the natural sweetness of the apples
• Ground cinnamon: adds that classic warm spice that pairs perfectly with apples
• Old fashioned oats: create a rustic textured topping that gets perfectly crisp
• All purpose flour: helps thicken the apple mixture and create structure in the topping
• Light brown sugar: adds a deeper molasses flavor to the crisp topping
• Butter: brings richness and helps create those perfect crumbles
• Heavy cream: is essential for a smooth luxurious caramel sauce

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Baking Dish:

Preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly coat a 9x13 baking dish with nonstick spray. This prevents the apples from sticking and makes cleanup much easier.

Prepare the Apples:

Peel all your Granny Smith apples completely. Core them and slice them into thin pieces about 1/4 inch thick. Consistent thickness ensures even cooking. Arrange them in an even layer across the bottom of your prepared baking dish.

Season the Apples:

In a mixing bowl combine the granulated sugar with 1 tablespoon of flour and ground cinnamon. This mixture will coat the apples to create a sweet spiced flavor base. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the apples then pour 1/2 cup water over everything. The water helps create steam during baking so the apples cook properly.

Create the Crumble Topping:

In the same bowl mix together oats flour brown sugar baking powder and baking soda. Cut room temperature butter into this mixture using a fork or pastry cutter. Keep working until you have a crumbly texture with pea sized pieces of butter throughout. This creates the perfect crispy texture when baked.

Top and Bake:

Generously sprinkle the crumble mixture over the seasoned apples making sure to cover the entire surface. Bake for 45 minutes until you see a beautiful golden brown color on top and the apple filling is bubbling at the edges. The topping should be crisp and the apples tender when pierced with a fork.

Make the Caramel Sauce:

In a medium saucepan heat granulated sugar over medium heat for about 10 minutes stirring constantly with a heat resistant spatula. The sugar will first form clumps then gradually melt into an amber colored liquid. Once completely melted immediately add room temperature butter and stir vigorously until incorporated. Carefully pour in room temperature heavy cream while continuing to stir. The mixture will bubble up dramatically so be careful. Remove from heat and allow to cool for 15 to 20 minutes until it reaches your desired thickness.

Serve and Enjoy:

Drizzle the homemade caramel sauce generously over portions of the warm apple crisp. Consider adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate comfort dessert experience.

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The first time I made this caramel sauce I was completely intimidated. After one failed attempt I discovered the secret is absolutely room temperature ingredients and constant stirring. Now this caramel is requested for everything from ice cream sundaes to gift jars during the holidays.

The Perfect Apple Selection

While this recipe calls for Granny Smith apples you can experiment with different varieties. Honeycrisp apples offer a perfect balance of sweet and tart while Braeburn or Pink Lady apples bring their own unique flavors. For the best texture and flavor I recommend using a mix of at least two varieties. The key is choosing firm apples that will hold their shape during baking rather than turning to mush.

Make It Your Own

This recipe serves as a wonderful base for customization. Consider adding 1/2 cup of chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the topping for extra crunch. Dried cranberries mixed with the apples create a festive holiday version. For a more complex flavor profile add 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg and a pinch of cloves to the cinnamon mixture. Some bakers even add a splash of bourbon to the apple mixture for a sophisticated twist.

Serving Suggestions

While delicious on its own this apple crisp transforms into a showstopping dessert when served warm with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. The contrast between the warm crisp and cold ice cream creates a delightful sensory experience. For breakfast try serving leftovers with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a drizzle of honey. During holiday gatherings I place the baking dish on a trivet alongside small bowls of caramel sauce whipped cream and chopped nuts so guests can customize their portions.

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Recipe FAQs

→ What apples are best for apple crisp?

Granny Smith apples are ideal as they provide a nice tartness that balances the sweetness of the topping and caramel.

→ How can I make the crumble topping extra crispy?

Use cold, room-temperature butter and ensure it's well incorporated with the oats and sugar for a perfect crisp texture.

→ How do I store the apple crisp?

Store it covered in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for a warm treat.

→ Can I prepare the caramel sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the caramel sauce ahead and store it in a jar in the refrigerator. Warm it slightly before using.

→ Can I substitute the oats in the topping?

If needed, you can use quick oats, but the texture might differ slightly. Avoid omitting oats as they add essential crunch.