This Apple Cider Glazed Apple Crisp is a warm and cozy dessert that combines sweet apples with a crunchy topping. The apple cider glaze adds a special touch!
The smell of this baking fills the house with comfort. I love serving it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream—talk about a perfect pairing! 🍏🍦
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tart Apples: Granny Smith apples are my favorite for this, as their tartness balances the sweetness. If you can’t find them, try Honeycrisp or Braeburn apples instead. They provide a nice flavor contrast, too!
Apple Cider: Fresh apple cider truly enhances the flavor. If you don’t have it, you can use apple juice, but be aware that it’s sweeter. Consider reducing the sugar slightly if you swap it out.
Nuts: I like to add walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and flavor, but you can skip them or use pumpkin seeds if nuts aren’t for you. Just remember, they add a nice texture!
Butter: Unsalted butter helps control the saltiness of the dish. If you want a dairy-free option, coconut oil works well, though it may add a hint of coconut flavor.
How Do I Make the Oat Topping Just Right?
A great oat topping is key for a delicious crisp! The texture should be crumbly and not too wet. Here’s how to nail it:
- Mix the oats, flour, and brown sugar first—this helps them blend well.
- When adding butter, keep it cold and cut into small cubes. This keeps the topping light and crumbly.
- Using your fingers works best. Don’t overmix, as you want those chunks of butter to stay intact for crunch!
Remember, let it cool slightly after baking. This allows the filling to set up a bit, making it easier to serve.
Apple Cider Glazed Apple Crisp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Apple Filling:
- 6 cups peeled, cored, and sliced tart apples (such as Granny Smith)
- 1/2 cup apple cider
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
For the Topping:
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
For Serving:
- Vanilla ice cream
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe should take about 15 minutes to prepare and then 45-50 minutes to bake, for a total of around 1 hour. It’s an easy-to-make dessert that fills your home with delightful scents as it bakes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats, grease a 9×9-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Apple Filling
In a large mixing bowl, toss the sliced apples together with the apple cider, lemon juice, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix well and set aside to marinate for a few minutes. This helps the flavors meld together nicely!
3. Make the Topping
In a separate bowl, combine the rolled oats, flour, brown sugar, and chopped nuts if you’re using them. This adds a nice crunchy texture. Mix these dry ingredients until well combined.
4. Incorporate the Butter
Now it’s time to add the cold cubed butter to the oat mixture. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to work the butter into the mix until it resembles coarse crumbs. This step is super important for achieving that perfect crispy topping!
5. Assemble the Dish
Transfer the apple filling into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Then, sprinkle the oat topping evenly over the apples, making sure to cover all the fruit.
6. Bake It Up
Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes. You want the top to be a beautiful golden brown and the apple filling to be bubbling with excitement!
7. Cool and Serve
Once baked, carefully remove the crisp from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This makes it easier to serve. When you’re ready, ladle it into bowls and add a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream on top—perfect for that warm-and-cold combination!
Now, sit back, relax, and enjoy your delicious Apple Cider Glazed Apple Crisp! It’s great for gatherings or a cozy night in. 🍏
Can I Use Different Types of Apples?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples are fantastic for their tartness, you can also use Honeycrisp or Jonagold apples. Mixing different varieties can create a more complex flavor and texture.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make this Apple Cider Glazed Apple Crisp gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking mix. Make sure your oats are certified gluten-free as well.
What Should I Do If My Apples Are Too Watery?
If you find that your apple mixture is too watery, add a tablespoon of cornstarch or flour to help thicken it. Mix it in with the apples before placing them in the baking dish to absorb some moisture.
Can I Store Leftovers?
Yes! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or in the microwave until heated through.
