Introduction
Indulging in a warm apple dessert is a timeless tradition that brings comfort and joy. This recipe for a delectable apple crisp not only highlights the tartness of Granny Smith apples but also offers a crunchy topping that beautifully complements the soft, sweet filling. Whether served as a family treat or a special occasion dessert, this apple crisp is sure to impress.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Apple Filling:
– 2 lb (1 kg) Granny Smith apples (weight before peeling)
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup white sugar
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice (or water)
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Topping:
– 1 cup rolled oats (quick cooking is acceptable)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup brown sugar (loosely packed)
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup (125 g) unsalted butter, melted
– Pinch of salt
To Serve:
– Vanilla ice cream
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time
30 to 40 minutes
Total Time
50 to 60 minutes
Yield
Serves 6 to 8
Enjoy this delightful apple crisp warm from the oven, ideally paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added richness. The combination of tangy apples with a crunchy oat topping creates a delicious dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
Step 2: Prepare the Apples
Peel the apples and cut them into 1/2-inch (1.5 cm) cubes.
Step 3: Mix Apple Filling
In a bowl, combine the apple cubes with flour, sugar, and cinnamon. Pour over the lemon juice and toss to mix. Spread the mixture evenly in a 1.5-quart (1.5-liter) baking dish.
Step 4: Prepare the Topping
In another bowl, mix the topping ingredients until clumps form, resembling wet sand. Spread this mixture over the apples, crumbling with fingers if necessary to achieve a crumbly topping.
Step 5: Bake the Dish
Bake for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown. Remove from the oven, cover loosely with foil to keep warm, and let stand for 10 minutes to allow the apple filling to set.
Step 6: Serve the Dish
Serve warm with vanilla ice cream.
Notes
Apple Selection
Granny Smith apples are recommended for their tartness and firmness, which hold up well during baking.
Adjusting Sweetness
Feel free to adjust the amount of sugar according to your taste preference or the tartness of the apples.
Baking Dish Size
Ensure your baking dish is at least 1.5 quarts to accommodate the apple mixture and topping.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs perfectly with vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast in temperature and flavor.
Cook techniques
Peeling Apples
Use a vegetable peeler or knife to carefully remove the skin from the apples. Ensure to remove all the skin without losing too much of the flesh underneath.
Cutting Apples
Chop the peeled apples into 1/2-inch cubes for even cooking and distribution in the dish. This size helps the apples soften properly while baking.
Mixing Ingredients
Combine the apple filling ingredients in a bowl using a gentle folding motion to ensure an even distribution without breaking the apple pieces.
Spreading Evenly
When placing the apple mixture in the baking dish, spread it out evenly with a spatula to ensure uniform cooking and browning across the dish.
Making the Topping
Mix the topping ingredients by using your fingers or a fork. The goal is to achieve a crumbly texture, similar to wet sand, which provides a good crunch when baked.
Baking
Place the baking dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C). Bake until the topping is golden brown, which typically takes 30 to 40 minutes.
Cooling
Once removed from the oven, cover the dish loosely with foil to keep the warmth in, allowing the filling to set for approximately 10 minutes before serving.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of apple?
Yes, you can use other apples, but Granny Smith apples are recommended for their tartness and firmness.
What can I substitute for brown sugar?
You can use an equal amount of white sugar, or you can mix white sugar with a little molasses to mimic the flavor of brown sugar.
Can I make the topping ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the topping and store it in the refrigerator for a day before assembling and baking.
What if I don’t have vanilla ice cream?
You can serve the apple filling with other flavors of ice cream, whipped cream, or even yogurt for a lighter option.
How do I know when the apple crisp is done?
The crisp is done when the topping is golden brown and the apples are bubbling around the edges. You can insert a fork to check if the apples are tender.
Conclusion
The combination of tart Granny Smith apples and a buttery, crumbly topping creates a delightful dessert that is perfect for any occasion. The addition of vanilla ice cream adds a creamy contrast to the warm apple filling, making every bite truly satisfying. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also a rich, comforting treat that is sure to impress family and friends.
Apple Crisp Variation
Try using a mix of apples, such as Honeycrisp or Fuji, for a sweeter taste. Adding nuts like pecans or walnuts to the topping can provide extra crunch.
Berry Apple Crisp
Incorporate berries like blueberries or raspberries into the apple filling for a burst of flavor and added nutrition. Adjust the sugar in the filling to balance the sweetness of the berries.
Chocolate Chip Oat Topping
For a decadent twist, stir in some chocolate chips into the topping. This adds a rich chocolate flavor that pairs wonderfully with the apples.
Spicy Pumpkin Apple Crisp
Add a pinch of nutmeg and ginger to the apple filling for a warm spice profile. You can also replace some of the flour in the topping with pumpkin puree for a seasonal variation.
Caramel Apple Crisp
Drizzle caramel sauce over the apple filling before adding the topping for an indulgent dessert. Serve it warm for an irresistible treat that chocolate lovers will adore.
