Introduction
There’s something undeniably comforting about a Family Favorite Apple Crisp. This classic dessert, with its tender base of spiced apples and a crunchy, golden topping, brings warmth and sweetness to any table. It’s a dish that evokes memories of family gatherings, autumn harvests, and cozy evenings. Let’s delve into how to create this beloved treat, ensuring it becomes a cherished recipe in your own family’s collection.
Ingredients
- 3 pounds apples – peeled, cored, and sliced
- 1 tablespoon butter, cut into small pieces
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 ½ cups brown sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ cup butter
Directions
1️⃣ Preheat Oven: Begin by heating your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Generously butter a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
2️⃣ Prepare Apples: Arrange the sliced apples in the buttered baking dish. Dot the apples with 1 tablespoon of butter pieces and evenly sprinkle with lemon juice to enhance their flavor.
3️⃣ Mix Topping: In a separate bowl, combine the flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Cut the ½ cup of butter into the oat mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. This will be your crumbly topping.
4️⃣ Assemble: Evenly spread the oat mixture over the apples in the baking dish, covering them completely.
5️⃣ Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake until the topping is golden brown and the apples are soft and tender, which should take about 30 minutes.
Notes and Tips
- Choosing the right type of apple can make all the difference. Granny Smith or Cortland apples are recommended for their perfect balance of tartness and sweetness.
- If fresh lemon juice is not available, bottled lemon juice can be a convenient substitute without compromising the flavor.
- For an extra layer of texture and flavor, consider adding a handful of chopped nuts or a sprinkle of nutmeg to the oat mixture.
Nutritional Information & Health Benefits
Nutrition details
- Serving: 1 piece
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 50 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 25 mg
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fiber: 4 g
- Sugar: 35 g
- Vitamin C: 10% DV
- Calcium: 4% DV
- Iron: 8% DV
Apples, the star ingredient of this dish, are a fantastic source of fiber, vitamin C, and various antioxidants. Not only does this dessert satisfy sweet cravings, but it also offers some nutritional benefits. The oats contribute additional fiber, making this a dessert you can feel good about indulging in.
FAQs
Q: Can I make apple crisp ahead of time? A: Absolutely! Prepare the apple crisp as directed, cover, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, reheat in the oven at 375 degrees F for about 15 minutes or until warmed through.
Q: How long does apple crisp last? A: Apple crisp can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure it’s covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container.
Q: Can apple crisp be frozen? A: Yes, apple crisp freezes well. Cool the crisp completely, then cover it tightly with aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven.
Q: Is there a gluten-free version of this recipe? A: For a gluten-free apple crisp, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure your oats are certified gluten-free.
Family Favorite Apple Crisp is more than just a dessert; it’s a testament to the simple pleasures in life. With its rich flavors and textures, it brings together the best of what the culinary world has to offer. Whether served at a family dinner, a festive gathering, or enjoyed as a solitary treat, this apple crisp is sure to warm hearts and delight taste buds.