Apple crisp without oats is a warm and comforting dessert featuring cinnamon-spiced apples topped with a buttery, golden crumble. It’s easy to make and even better when paired with a scoop of cold vanilla ice cream. If you love simple and satisfying fall treats, this no-oat apple crisp will quickly become a favorite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
1. Easy to Make with Minimal Ingredients
This recipe comes together effortlessly with just a few ingredients—perfect for a quick dessert fix. There’s no need to worry about oats or complicated steps.
2. Rich, Warm Flavors for Fall
The sweet, juicy apples are enhanced by cinnamon and brown sugar, while the buttery crumble topping creates the perfect texture. It’s everything you want in a fall dessert!
Ingredients for Apple Crisp Without Oats
For the Crumble Topping:
- 1 ¼ cup (150 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 10-12 tablespoons (141-170 g) cold unsalted butter, cubed
For the Apple Filling:
- 6 cups apples, peeled, cored, and sliced into ¼-inch slices or ½-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons (25 g) light brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons (25 g) granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ cup (60 ml) lemon juice, water, or apple cider
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9-inch deep-dish pie plate, skillet, or 9×9 baking dish.
2. Make the Crumble Topping
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and salt. Add the cold cubed butter, and using a pastry cutter, two forks, or your hands, mix until the crumble resembles wet sand with some larger pieces. Set the crumble in the fridge to chill while you prepare the apples.
3. Prepare the Apple Filling
Peel, core, and slice the apples into even slices or cubes. In another large bowl, toss the apples with brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Make sure the apples are evenly coated.
4. Assemble the Crisp
Transfer the apple mixture to the prepared baking dish. Spread the crumble topping evenly over the apples, making sure to cover the entire surface.
5. Bake the Crisp
Bake for 40-50 minutes or until the crumble is golden brown and the apple filling is bubbling around the edges.
6. Cool and Serve
Let the apple crisp cool for at least 20 minutes to allow the filling to thicken. Scoop into bowls and top with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect finishing touch.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store the apple crisp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheat: Warm individual servings in the microwave or reheat the entire dish in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes.
Tips for the Best Apple Crisp
- Choose the right apples: Use a mix of sweet and tart apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji for a balanced flavor.
- Don’t skip chilling the topping: Chilling the crumble helps create a crisp, golden texture.
- Let it cool: Cooling the crisp for 20 minutes allows the filling to set properly.
This no-oat apple crisp is a classic dessert that’s as simple as it is satisfying. The buttery crumble combined with sweet, cinnamon-spiced apples creates a warm, cozy treat perfect for fall evenings. Whether served with ice cream or enjoyed on its own, it’s a dessert you’ll come back to again and again.
FAQ Section
Q: What can I substitute for oats in apple crisp?
A: This recipe skips the oats and uses a buttery crumble topping made with flour, sugar, and butter for a classic texture.
Q: What apples work best for apple crisp?
A: A mix of sweet and tart apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji works best to create a balanced flavor.
Q: Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can assemble the apple crisp and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
Q: How do I prevent the topping from getting soggy?
A: Make sure to bake the crisp until the topping is golden brown and the apples are bubbling. Chilling the crumble before baking also helps maintain a crispy texture.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store the apple crisp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Q: Can I freeze apple crisp without oats?
A: Yes! Freeze it unbaked or baked in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge and reheat in the oven when ready to enjoy.