Name: Easy Apple Crisp with Oat Topping
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 cups apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix), peeled, cored, and sliced; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for filling); 3/4 cup rolled oats; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for topping); 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed; 1/4 teaspoon salt

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This easy apple crisp with oat topping is one of my favorite cozy desserts. I love the way tender, cinnamon-spiced apples bake beneath a golden, buttery oat crumble that’s perfectly crisp on top. It’s a simple recipe that doesn’t require a pie crust, yet it delivers all the comfort and warmth of a classic apple dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I like this recipe because it feels rustic and homey while being incredibly easy to make. I don’t need special tools or complicated steps—just a few basic ingredients and a baking dish. The topping comes together in minutes, and the smell of apples and cinnamon baking in the oven is irresistible. It’s also a versatile dessert, perfect for a family dinner, potluck, or holiday table. I also enjoy that it pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
Granulated sugar
Brown sugar
Cinnamon
Nutmeg
Lemon juice
All-purpose flour
Rolled oats
Butter
Salt

Directions

I start by preheating my oven to 350°F (175°C).
I peel, core, and slice the apples, then toss them with sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and a little flour. I spread this apple mixture evenly in a greased baking dish.
To make the topping, I combine oats, flour, brown sugar, salt, and butter until it forms a crumbly mixture.
I sprinkle the topping evenly over the apples.
I bake for about 40–45 minutes, until the topping is golden brown and the apples are bubbling underneath.
I let it cool slightly before serving, usually warm with ice cream.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 6 servings. It usually takes me 15 minutes to prepare the apples and topping, plus 40–45 minutes of baking time. The total time is just about 1 hour.

Variations

I sometimes add chopped pecans or walnuts to the oat topping for extra crunch. I also like swapping half of the oats with quick oats for a slightly finer topping. For a twist, I use pears instead of apples, or a mix of apples and berries. A drizzle of caramel sauce on top also makes it extra special.

storage/reheating

I usually cover leftovers and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, I warm single portions in the microwave or place the whole dish in a 350°F oven for about 15 minutes to crisp the topping again.

FAQs

Can I make this apple crisp ahead of time?

Yes, I often assemble the apple filling and topping separately, then refrigerate. Right before baking, I sprinkle the topping over the apples and bake fresh.

What are the best apples for apple crisp?

I prefer using firm, tart apples like Granny Smith for structure, but I also enjoy mixing them with sweeter varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji for balance.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, I swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend and make sure to use certified gluten-free oats.

Do I need to peel the apples?

I like peeling the apples for a softer texture, but leaving the skins on adds extra fiber and rustic appeal.

How do I know when the apple crisp is done?

I check that the topping is golden brown and the apple filling is bubbling around the edges. That usually means the apples are tender and fully baked.

Conclusion

This easy apple crisp with oat topping is one of those recipes I turn to again and again. It’s simple, warm, and full of comforting flavors. I love how adaptable it is, whether I’m baking it for a weeknight dessert or dressing it up for a holiday table. With just a handful of pantry ingredients, I can make a dessert that feels like home every time.

Easy Apple Crisp with Oat Topping