This Simple Apple Crisp with Oat Topping is the kind of dessert that fills your kitchen with warmth and comfort. Sweet tender apples bake under a buttery oat topping that turns perfectly golden and crunchy. It’s easy to prepare, made with simple pantry ingredients, and ideal for cozy evenings or casual gatherings. effort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Uses simple, everyday ingredients
- Perfect balance of soft apples and crunchy oat topping
- Easy dessert that feels homemade and comforting
- Great for fall, holidays, or weeknight treats
- Delicious served warm or cold
Ingredients

Apple Filling
- 6 cups apples peeled cored and thinly sliced (about 6 medium apples)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup brown sugar packed
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Oat Topping
- 1 cup rolled oats
- ¾ cup all purpose flour
- ½ cup brown sugar packed
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter melted
Step-by-Step Instructions

- Preheat the oven and lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Add sliced apples to a large bowl and toss them with sugar cinnamon nutmeg lemon juice and cornstarch until evenly coated.
- Spread the apple mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, making sure the apples sit in a flat layer.
- In another bowl combine oats flour brown sugar cinnamon and salt.
- Pour melted butter over the oat mixture and stir until it forms a crumbly texture.
- Sprinkle the oat topping evenly over the apples without pressing it down.
- Bake until the apples are tender and the topping turns golden brown.
- Let the apple crisp rest slightly before serving to allow the filling to set.
Tips & Variations
- Swap rolled oats with quick oats for a finer, softer topping texture.
- Use firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp to keep the filling from turning mushy.
- Slice apples evenly so they bake at the same speed and soften perfectly.
- Mix chopped walnuts or pecans into the oat topping for extra crunch.
- Add a pinch of ground ginger or cloves to deepen the warm spice flavor.
- Reduce the sugar slightly if you prefer a more apple-forward dessert.
Storage & Freezer Instructions
- Bake directly from frozen, adding extra baking time until golden and bubbly.
- Store leftover apple crisp covered in the refrigerator for up to four days.
- Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
- Keep the topping crisp by reheating in the oven rather than the microwave.
- Assemble the apple crisp without baking, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to two months.
Serving & Pairing Ideas

- Serve warm with vanilla ice cream for a classic combination.
- Add a dollop of whipped cream for a light, creamy contrast.
- Pair with hot coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat.
- Serve alongside spiced apple cider during fall gatherings.
- Enjoy chilled leftovers with yogurt for a simple dessert-style breakfast.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different apples for apple crisp
Yes, using a mix of sweet and tart apples creates a balanced flavor and adds depth to the filling.
Do I need to peel the apples
Peeling apples gives a smoother texture, but leaving the skins on adds fiber and a more rustic feel.
How do I prevent a soggy topping
Make sure the butter is well distributed and bake until the topping is deeply golden to achieve a crisp texture.
Can I make apple crisp ahead of time
You can prepare it a day in advance and bake just before serving, or reheat it gently before enjoying.
Ready to Make It?
This Simple Apple Crisp with Oat Topping is a cozy dessert you’ll want to make again and again. It’s easy enough for busy days and comforting enough for special moments. Save it, bake it, and enjoy the warm flavors straight from your oven.
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Simple Apple Crisp with Oat Topping
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Simple Apple Crisp with Oat Topping is a cozy baked dessert made with tender spiced apples and a golden crunchy oat topping.
Ingredients
Apples peeled cored and sliced
Granulated sugar
Brown sugar
Ground cinnamon
Ground nutmeg
Lemon juice
Cornstarch
Rolled oats
All purpose flour
Brown sugar
Ground cinnamon
Salt
Unsalted butter melted
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven and grease a baking dish
2. Mix apples with sugar spices lemon juice and cornstarch
3. Spread apples evenly in the baking dish
4. Combine oats flour sugar cinnamon and salt
5. Stir in melted butter until crumbly
6. Sprinkle topping over apples
7. Bake until golden and bubbly
8. Cool slightly before serving
Notes
Use firm apples for best texture
Serve warm for the best flavor
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 32g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 25mg