Warm Cinnamon Apple Crisp (Classic, Cozy & Oven-Baked)

Introduction

Warm Cinnamon Apple Crisp is the definition of cozy comfort food. Tender, juicy apples baked in cinnamon-spiced syrup are topped with a buttery, golden oat crumble that turns crisp on top while staying soft underneath. Served warm, this dessert fills the kitchen with the irresistible aroma of apples, butter, and spice—instantly making any space feel like home.

What makes apple crisp so beloved is its simplicity. Unlike pies or cakes, there’s no rolling dough or complicated techniques involved. Everything comes together quickly with basic pantry ingredients, yet the result tastes rich, nostalgic, and deeply satisfying. The apples soften into a jammy filling, while the crisp topping provides the perfect contrast in texture.

Warm Cinnamon Apple Crisp is ideal for fall and winter, but it’s delicious year-round. It’s perfect for family dinners, holidays, potlucks, or casual gatherings where you want a dessert that feels homemade and comforting. Best of all, it’s incredibly forgiving and can be easily customized with different apples, spices, or add-ins.

If you’re craving a dessert that’s warm, familiar, and always a crowd-pleaser, this classic apple crisp is exactly what you need.

Ingredients
Apple Filling

6 cups apples, peeled, cored, and sliced (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji)

¾ cup granulated sugar

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg

2 tablespoons cornstarch

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Crisp Topping

1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats

¾ cup all-purpose flour

¾ cup brown sugar, packed

½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

¼ teaspoon salt

½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed

Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Apples

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, cornstarch, and vanilla extract. Toss until apples are evenly coated. Spread the mixture evenly into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 2: Make the Crisp Topping

In another bowl, mix oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Step 3: Assemble

Sprinkle the crisp topping evenly over the apple mixture, covering it completely without pressing down too firmly.

Step 4: Bake

Bake uncovered for 40–50 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apple filling is bubbling around the edges.

Step 5: Rest Before Serving

Remove from oven and let rest for 10–15 minutes. This allows the filling to thicken slightly while staying warm and spoonable.

Variations

Apple Pear Crisp: Replace half the apples with pears.

Nutty Apple Crisp: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the topping.

Oat-Free Crisp: Omit oats and increase flour slightly.

Maple Apple Crisp: Replace part of the sugar with maple syrup.

Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free oats and flour blend.

Cooking Notes

Use a mix of sweet and tart apples for best flavor.

Cold butter is essential for a crisp topping.

Do not overbake or the topping may become too dry.

Bubbling edges indicate the filling is fully cooked.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Warm Cinnamon Apple Crisp straight from the oven with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of heavy cream. It also pairs beautifully with caramel sauce or custard. Perfect for family dinners, holidays, and cozy nights in.

Tips

Slice apples evenly for uniform cooking.

Place baking dish on a foil-lined sheet to catch spills.

Adjust sugar based on apple sweetness.

Leftovers reheat well in the oven or microwave.

Prep Time

20 minutes

Cooking Time

45 minutes

Total Time

1 hour 5 minutes

Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)

Calories: 410

Protein: 4g

Sodium: 210mg

FAQs

What apples work best for apple crisp?
Granny Smith and Honeycrisp hold their shape and offer great flavor.

Can I make apple crisp ahead of time?
Yes, bake ahead and reheat gently before serving.

Can I freeze apple crisp?
Yes, freeze baked crisp tightly wrapped for up to 2 months.

Why is my crisp topping soggy?
Too much moisture or not enough baking time can cause sogginess.

Conclusion

Warm Cinnamon Apple Crisp is a timeless dessert that delivers comfort, flavor, and simplicity in every bite. With tender spiced apples and a buttery crumble topping, it’s the kind of dessert that never goes out of style. Easy to make, endlessly customizable, and best served warm, this apple crisp is guaranteed to become a favorite you’ll return to again and again.

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