If you’re searching for a dessert that’s both cozy and simple, this Apple Crisp with Oats and Cinnamon recipe is exactly what you need. Packed with juicy, tender apples and a crunchy, buttery oat topping bursting with warm cinnamon, it’s the perfect treat to satisfy your sweet tooth any time. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a casual gathering, this classic dessert brings comfort and delicious flavor together effortlessly.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple to Prepare: Uses common pantry ingredients, making it easy to whip up quickly without fuss.
Perfect Texture: Combines tender baked apples with a crisp, golden oat topping for the ultimate contrast.
Warm, Inviting Flavors: Cinnamon and oats give it a cozy aroma and deep, rich taste.
Great for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual family nights or impressing guests with minimal effort.
Customizable: Easy to adapt with various fruits or add-ins based on your preference.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Apple Crisp with Oats and Cinnamon plays an important role, from juicy tart apples that create a flavorful base to the oats and butter that bring satisfying crunch and richness. The cinnamon ties it all together with its warm, spicy notes.

Apples: Choose crisp, tart varieties like Granny Smith for the best balance of flavor and texture.
Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats: Provide that hearty, chewy topping everyone loves.
Brown Sugar: Adds natural sweetness and a touch of molasses depth to the oat crumble.
All-Purpose Flour: Binds the oat topping together for a nice, crumbly texture.
Ground Cinnamon: Infuses warm spice that complements the apples perfectly.
Butter: Melted or softened, it creates a rich, golden crust and enhances flavor.
Lemon Juice: Prevents apples from browning and adds a subtle tang that brightens the filling.
Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the other flavors.

Variations for Apple Crisp with Oats and Cinnamon

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, making it easy to switch things up to suit your needs, whether you’re looking to add more texture, make it gluten-free, or experiment with other fruits and flavors.

Adding Nuts: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans to the topping for extra crunch and nuttiness.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with almond flour or gluten-free flour blends seamlessly.
Additional Spices: Mix in nutmeg, ginger, or allspice for a more aromatic and layered spice profile.
Fruit Mix-In: Toss in sliced pears, cranberries, or blueberries alongside the apples for unique twists.
Vegan Version: Replace butter with coconut oil or vegan butter for dairy-free enjoyment.

Easy Apple Crisp with Oats and Cinnamon Recipe

How to Make Apple Crisp with Oats and Cinnamon

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

Start by peeling, coring, and slicing your apples evenly to ensure they cook uniformly. Toss the apple slices with lemon juice, a bit of sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt to infuse flavor and keep the slices vibrant.

Step 2: Make the Oat Topping

In a separate bowl, mix together rolled oats, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and salt. Add melted butter and stir until the mixture becomes crumbly but holds together when pressed.

Step 3: Assemble the Apple Crisp

Spread the prepared apple mixture evenly into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the oat topping generously over the apples, covering them without pressing down too hard.

Step 4: Bake Until Golden

Place the dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are tender and bubbling.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Allow the apple crisp to cool slightly before serving, so the juices thicken and the flavors meld beautifully.

Pro Tips for Making Apple Crisp with Oats and Cinnamon

Use Firm Apples: Choose apples that hold their shape well during baking for a perfect texture.
Don’t Overmix Topping: Gently combine ingredients to keep the oat crumb light and crisp.
Even Slices Matter: Uniform apple slices ensure even cooking and consistent flavor in every bite.
Watch Baking Time: Ovens vary, so start checking around 35 minutes to avoid over-baking.
Rest Before Serving: Letting it cool for 10-15 minutes improves sliceability and enhances the taste.

How to Serve Apple Crisp with Oats and Cinnamon

Garnishes

A generous scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream makes the perfect warm-and-cool contrast, elevating every bite of the apple crisp.

Side Dishes

This dessert pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee, spiced chai, or a glass of crisp white wine for a truly indulgent experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the crisp in individual ramekins for a charming presentation, or top each portion with toasted nuts or a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra flair and flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover apple crisp covered tightly in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; the flavors actually deepen overnight, making it even better the next day.

Freezing

You can freeze baked apple crisp in an airtight container for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.

Reheating

Reheat portions in a microwave for a minute or two or warm in a 325°F (160°C) oven until heated through and the topping regains its crunch.

FAQs

Can I use other fruits besides apples?

Absolutely! Pears, peaches, or berries all work wonderfully either alone or combined with apples for extra dimension.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour alternatives or almond flour while keeping the oats certified gluten-free.

How do I make this dessert vegan?

Replace the butter with coconut oil or your preferred plant-based butter and ensure any sugar used is vegan-friendly.

What type of apples work best for apple crisp?

Firm varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn are ideal because they hold their shape well and provide a nice balance of tartness and sweetness.

Can I prepare this recipe in advance?

Yes! You can assemble the crisp and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking, which makes it perfect for busy days or entertaining.

Final Thoughts

Ready to enjoy a dessert that feels like a warm hug in every bite? This Apple Crisp with Oats and Cinnamon is a timeless favorite that’s both easy to make and deeply satisfying. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is sure to become a beloved staple in your dessert repertoire. Grab your ingredients, get comfy, and treat yourself to a slice of pure homemade joy!

Apple Crisp with Oats and Cinnamon

Print Recipe

Apple Crisp with Oats and Cinnamon is a cozy, simple dessert featuring tender, juicy apples topped with a crunchy, buttery oat mixture infused with warm cinnamon. Perfect for chilly evenings or casual gatherings, this classic comfort treat combines sweet and tart flavors with a satisfying crisp texture, making it an easy and delicious choice for any occasion.

Author: Lina
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Can be made gluten-free and vegan

Ingredients

Scale

For the Apple Filling

6 cups tart apples, peeled, cored, and sliced (about 6 medium apples, e.g., Granny Smith)
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Oat Topping

1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour substitution)
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted or softened

Instructions

Prepare the Apples: Peel, core, and slice the apples evenly to ensure uniform cooking. In a large bowl, toss the apple slices with lemon juice, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and salt to infuse flavor and prevent browning.
Make the Oat Topping: In a separate bowl, combine rolled oats, brown sugar, all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, and salt. Add the melted or softened butter and stir until the mixture is crumbly but holds together when pressed.
Assemble the Apple Crisp: Spread the prepared apple mixture evenly into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the oat topping generously over the apples without pressing down too hard.
Bake Until Golden: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the assembled crisp for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are tender and bubbling.
Cool and Serve: Allow the apple crisp to cool slightly for 10-15 minutes before serving to let the juices thicken and flavors meld beautifully. Serve with optional vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

Notes

Use firm apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn to maintain texture during baking.
Gently mix the oat topping ingredients to keep it light and crisp—avoid overmixing.
Slice apples uniformly to ensure even cooking and consistent flavor in each bite.
Start checking the crisp around 35 minutes when baking to prevent overcooking, as oven temperatures may vary.
Letting the crisp rest before serving improves sliceability and enhances flavor development.
The recipe is adaptable for gluten-free and vegan diets by substituting flour and butter.
Leftovers keep well covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; flavors may improve overnight.
Freeze baked crisp in airtight containers for up to 3 months; thaw overnight before reheating.
Reheat gently in a microwave or warm oven to restore crispness.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 1/6 of the recipe)
Calories: 310 kcal
Sugar: 25 g
Sodium: 120 mg
Fat: 14 g
Saturated Fat: 8 g
Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 44 g
Fiber: 4 g
Protein: 3 g
Cholesterol: 35 mg

Keywords: apple crisp, oat topping, cinnamon dessert, autumn dessert, gluten-free apple crisp, vegan apple crisp, easy apple dessert