Introduction:
As the crisp air and golden leaves signal the arrival of autumn, there’s nothing quite like enjoying a warm, comforting treat that brings the flavors of the season to life. This delightful autumn treat combines the sweetness of apples and cinnamon with a buttery, soft texture, making it the perfect dessert or snack for chilly fall days. Whether you’re gathering around a cozy fire or hosting a seasonal celebration, this recipe will surely become a favorite in your autumn repertoire.
Ingredients:
2 large apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup rolled oats
1/3 cup brown sugar (packed)
1/4 cup butter (cold and cubed)
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
1/4 tsp salt
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp cornstarch
1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans are great)
1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Prepare the Apples: Peel, core, and slice the apples. Toss them in a bowl with lemon juice to prevent browning.
Make the Filling: In a separate bowl, mix the brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and cornstarch. Sprinkle this mixture over the apples and toss to coat the slices evenly. Set aside.
Prepare the Topping: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, oats, cinnamon, and brown sugar. Add the cubed butter and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to work it into the dry ingredients until it forms a crumbly texture. Stir in the chopped nuts and vanilla extract.
Assemble the Dish: Place the apple mixture in a greased baking dish (9×9 inch works well). Evenly sprinkle the topping over the apples.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are tender.
Cool and Serve: Allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy it as is or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Description
This delightful autumn treat captures the essence of fall in every bite. The sweet, tender apples combine perfectly with the crunchy, cinnamon-infused oat topping, while the nuts add a satisfying texture. It’s a dessert that’s both comforting and flavorful—perfect for family gatherings, holiday dinners, or a cozy evening at home. The aroma that fills your kitchen while it bakes is enough to get you into the autumn spirit!
Tips
Apple Selection: Choose apples that hold their shape when baked, such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji. These apples will provide the perfect balance of tartness and sweetness.
Add a Dash of Spice: Feel free to add a pinch of ground ginger or cloves to the topping for an extra layer of fall spice.
Make It Ahead: You can prepare the apple filling and topping the night before and refrigerate them separately. Then, assemble and bake the next day for a quick and easy treat.
Use Different Nuts: If you’re not a fan of walnuts or pecans, try slivered almonds or hazelnuts for a different flavor profile.
Variations
Cranberry Apple Crisp: Add a handful of fresh or frozen cranberries to the apple mixture for a tart contrast to the sweet apples.
Vegan Version: Swap the butter for vegan margarine or coconut oil, and use a plant-based substitute for the cornstarch.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free oats and a gluten-free flour blend to make this dish suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
Corrections
Topping Texture: If your topping turns out too dry, try adding a little more butter or a splash of cold water to get the desired crumbly consistency.
Apple Softness: If the apples aren’t soft enough after baking, cover the dish with foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until they are tender.
Enjoy
Serve your delightful autumn treat warm from the oven, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Whether it’s an after-dinner dessert or a mid-afternoon snack, you’ll savor every bite of this autumn-inspired creation!