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Deep Dish Apple Crisp: The Ultimate Cozy Dessert
Why You'll Love This Deep Dish Apple Crisp
Few desserts capture the essence of comfort quite like a warm, buttery, deep dish apple crisp. With tender cinnamon-scented apples nestled beneath a golden oat crumble, this baked dessert is both rustic and refined. Whether it’s served solo or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, it’s a timeless fall favorite that never goes out of style.
This version is made in a deep dish style, allowing for extra layers of sweet apples and thick, crispy topping. It's perfect for family gatherings, holidays, or a chilly weekend treat.
Quick Overview
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50–60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Servings: 8–10
Ingredients
For the Apple Filling:
- 8 cups peeled and sliced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup light brown sugar
- 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- Pinch of salt
For the Crisp Topping:
- 1½ cups old-fashioned rolled oats- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, melted
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Apples
Peel, core, and thinly slice the apples. In a large mixing bowl, toss them with the lemon juice, sugars, cinnamon, nutmeg, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt. Allow the mixture to sit while you prepare the topping.
Step 2: Make the Crumble Topping
In another bowl, stir together the oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Pour in the melted butter and stir until the mixture forms moist clumps.
Step 3: Assemble the Crisp
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch deep baking dish. Spread the apple filling evenly across the bottom, then sprinkle the oat topping generously over the apples, pressing slightly to adhere.
Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake uncovered for 50–60 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the apples are bubbling and soft. If the topping browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil for the last 10–15 minutes.
Step 5: Let It Cool
Allow the crisp to rest for at least 15 minutes before serving. This helps the filling set up and makes serving much easier.
Serving Suggestions
Deep dish apple crisp is delicious served warm with a variety of toppings. Here are some tasty ways to elevate it:
- Classic scoop of vanilla bean ice cream- Dollop of freshly whipped cream
- Drizzle of salted caramel sauce
- Sprinkle of chopped toasted pecans
- Pinch of sea salt for contrast
Storage and Reheating Tips
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For best results, reheat portions in the oven at 325°F until warmed through. You can also microwave individual servings, though the topping may soften slightly.
Make It Gluten-Free or Vegan
- To make it gluten-free: Use certified gluten-free oats and substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.- To make it vegan: Use plant-based butter or coconut oil in place of dairy butter.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 370 |
| Total Fat | 16g |
| Saturated Fat | 9g |
| Carbohydrates | 55g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Sugars | 35g |
| Protein | 3g |
| Sodium | 140mg |
Pro Tips for the Best Apple Crisp
- Use a mix of tart and sweet apples like Granny Smith and Fuji for depth of flavor.- Slice apples evenly to ensure uniform baking.
- Don’t skimp on the topping — it’s what makes the “crisp” irresistible!
- Let it rest before cutting to avoid a runny mess.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare this apple crisp in advance?
Yes! You can assemble it a day ahead and store it unbaked in the fridge. When ready to bake, bring it to room temperature before placing it in the oven.
What’s the best apple to use?
Granny Smith apples are ideal because they hold their shape and provide tartness. You can mix in sweeter apples like Gala or Honeycrisp for balance.
Can I freeze this?
Absolutely. Let the baked crisp cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 325°F until warmed through.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re celebrating Thanksgiving, a Sunday dinner, or just indulging in a homemade dessert, this deep dish apple crisp never fails to impress. With its rich aroma, tender spiced apples, and perfectly golden topping, it’s the kind of dessert that brings people back for seconds.
Give it a try — and don’t forget the ice cream!