Old-Fashioned Apple Crisp
Introduction
Are you craving a warm, comforting dessert that is both nostalgic and delicious? Look no further than old-fashioned apple crisp. This timeless dessert combines the sweetness of baked apples with a crispy, buttery topping. It’s like a cozy hug on a plate!
The Perfect Apple
When it comes to making apple crisp, choosing the right apple is crucial. You want an apple variety that holds its shape during baking and offers a balance of sweetness and tartness. Granny Smith apples are a popular choice, with their firm texture and tangy flavor. However, if you prefer sweeter notes, Honeycrisp or Golden Delicious apples work well too.
Preparing the Apples
Before you start assembling your apple crisp, make sure to peel, core, and slice the apples. The thickness of the slices is a matter of personal preference, but aim for around 1/4 inch. This ensures that the apples cook evenly and create a luscious filling.
The Crispy Topping
The star of any apple crisp is the crispy topping. It’s what adds that delightful crunch and complements the tender baked apples. The classic topping consists of a mixture of flour, oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and butter. You can customize it by adding chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for an extra layer of texture and flavor.
Assembly and Baking
Now that you have your prepared apples and crispy topping, it’s time to assemble your apple crisp. Spread the sliced apples evenly in a baking dish and sprinkle the topping over the apples. Bake in a preheated oven until the apples are tender and the topping has turned golden brown and crispy. The aroma filling your kitchen will be absolutely irresistible!
Serving and Enjoyment
Once your apple crisp is out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Top it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent treat. The combination of warm, gooey apples and cold, creamy goodness is pure bliss. Share it with loved ones or savor it all by yourself – either way, it’s sure to bring a smile to your face.
Conclusion
Old-fashioned apple crisp is a timeless dessert that never fails to satisfy. With its simple yet irresistible combination of baked apples and a crispy topping, it’s a dessert that brings comfort and joy. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and indulge in a slice of nostalgia!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a different fruit instead of apples?
While apple crisp traditionally uses apples, you can experiment with other fruits like peaches, pears, or berries. Just adjust the cooking time and sugar quantity accordingly.
2. Can I make apple crisp ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the apple crisp ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.
3. Can I freeze apple crisp?
Yes, you can freeze apple crisp. After baking, allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in foil or place it in an airtight container. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months.
4. How do I reheat apple crisp?
To reheat apple crisp, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the frozen or refrigerated crisp in the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. The topping should regain its crispiness.
5. Can I make apple crisp gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure that your oats are certified gluten-free. The result will still be delicious and satisfying.
6. What can I use instead of brown sugar?
If you don’t have brown sugar on hand, you can use granulated sugar or even coconut sugar as a substitute. Keep in mind that the flavor may be slightly different, but it will still be delightful.
7. Can I add spices other than cinnamon?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment with other spices like nutmeg, ginger, or cardamom to add depth and warmth to your apple crisp. Just remember to use them in moderation so they don’t overpower the natural flavors.
8. Can I use a different type of topping?
Absolutely! While the classic crispy topping is a favorite, you can get creative and try different variations. Some options include a crumbly streusel topping, a buttery biscuit topping, or even a crunchy granola topping. The possibilities are endless!
Old-Fashioned Apple Crisp
Ingredients
- Ingredients:
- 5 pounds of McIntosh or Macoun apples
- Zest of 1 orange (grated)
- Zest of 1 lemon (grated)
- 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed orange juice
- 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1/2 cup of granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
- 1 1/2 cups of flour
- 3/4 cup of granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup of packed light brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt
- 1 cup of oatmeal
- 1/2 pound of cold unsalted butter (diced)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
- Grease a 9 by 14 by 2-inch oval baking dish with butter.
- Peel, remove the core, and cut the apples into large wedges.
- In a bowl, combine the apples with the zests, juices, sugar, and spices.
- Pour the apple mixture into the greased baking dish.
- In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine the flour, sugars, salt, oatmeal, and cold butter.
- Mix the ingredients on low speed until the mixture becomes crumbly and the butter is the size of peas.
- Evenly scatter the topping mixture over the apples in the baking dish.
- Place the baking dish on a sheet pan.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour or until the top turns brown and the apples become bubbly.
- Serve the crisp warm.
