Name: Apple Crisp With Vanilla Ice Cream
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 medium apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix), peeled and sliced; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1 tbsp all-purpose flour; 3/4 cup all-purpose flour; 3/4 cup old-fashioned rolled oats; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed; Vanilla ice cream (for serving)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This apple crisp is easy to make, requires simple pantry ingredients, and delivers big on comfort and flavor. The soft, sweet apples contrast beautifully with the crisp topping, and when you add a scoop of vanilla ice cream, it becomes a warm-and-cold dessert dream. It’s perfect for family dinners, holidays, or any time you want a no-fuss homemade treat.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Fresh apples (such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix), peeled and sliced
Granulated sugar
Brown sugar
Ground cinnamon
Ground nutmeg
Lemon juice
All-purpose flour
Old-fashioned rolled oats
Unsalted butter, cold and cubed
Salt
Vanilla ice cream (for serving)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
In a large bowl, toss the sliced apples with granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and a tablespoon of flour. Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared dish.
In a separate bowl, combine flour, oats, brown sugar, and salt. Add the cold cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until crumbly.
Sprinkle the oat mixture evenly over the apples.
Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apple filling is bubbling.
Let the crisp cool for a few minutes, then serve warm with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves approximately 6–8 people.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour

Variations

Add Nuts: Mix chopped pecans or walnuts into the topping for added crunch.
Maple Twist: Drizzle maple syrup over the apples before baking for extra sweetness.
Caramel Apple Crisp: Add a layer of caramel sauce on the apples before the topping.
Berry Blend: Mix in blueberries, cranberries, or raspberries for a fruitier flavor.
Spiced Up: Add a pinch of ground cloves or ginger for deeper spice notes.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover apple crisp in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 4 days.
To reheat, warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–15 minutes or microwave individual portions for 30–60 seconds.
Apple crisp can be frozen before or after baking. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat from frozen or thaw overnight before baking.

FAQs

What are the best apples to use for apple crisp?

Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are excellent choices because they hold their shape and balance sweetness with tartness.

Do I need to peel the apples?

Yes, peeling is recommended for a smoother texture, but leaving the peels on is fine if you prefer a more rustic dish.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free oats and a gluten-free flour blend in the topping.

Is this dessert very sweet?

It’s moderately sweet, but you can reduce the sugar in the filling or topping if desired.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the crisp ahead of time and refrigerate it unbaked for up to 24 hours, or freeze it for later baking.

Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

Yes, but rolled oats give a better texture. Quick oats will result in a softer topping.

What if I don’t have nutmeg?

You can leave it out or substitute with a bit more cinnamon or a pinch of allspice.

How do I know when the crisp is done?

The topping should be golden brown and the apple filling should be bubbling around the edges.

Can I use other fruits?

Yes, pears, peaches, or berries can be added or substituted for some of the apples.

Do I have to serve it with ice cream?

No, but vanilla ice cream adds a delicious contrast to the warm, spiced filling. You can also use whipped cream or yogurt.

Conclusion

Apple Crisp with Vanilla Ice Cream is a timeless dessert that’s easy to prepare and always satisfying. The tender baked apples, crunchy oat topping, and cool, creamy ice cream make for an irresistible treat that everyone will love. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight indulgence or a special gathering, this classic dish delivers cozy flavor and homemade goodness every time.