This Maple Walnut Apple Crisp is a warm and cozy dessert. It features juicy apples topped with a crunchy blend of walnuts, oats, and a hint of maple syrup—yum!
I love how the sweet and nutty flavors come together. Serve it with a scoop of ice cream for a treat that’s hard to resist. Trust me, your family will want seconds! 😍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are great for this recipe. Their tartness balances the sweetness of the maple syrup. If you have other apples, like Fuji or Braeburn, they can also work well.
Maple Syrup: Use pure maple syrup for the best flavor. If you’re in a pinch, honey or agave syrup can substitute, but they will change the taste slightly.
Walnuts: Chopped walnuts add crunch and nuttiness. If you’re not a fan, pecans or almonds are good alternatives that still bring that lovely texture.
Flour: All-purpose flour is the base for the crumble. You can swap it for whole wheat flour for more fiber or a gluten-free flour mix to make the dish gluten-free.
How Do You Get the Perfect Crunchy Topping?
A delicious, crunchy topping is essential for this dish. To achieve that perfect texture, follow these tips:
- Combine the dry ingredients (oats, walnuts, flour, brown sugar) before adding melted butter. This ensures even distribution.
- Mix the melted butter in gradually until you get a nice crumbly texture. Don’t overmix!
- If possible, let the topping sit for a few minutes before baking. This helps the oats absorb some moisture.
- Bake until golden brown on top—keep an eye on it, as every oven is different.
These steps will help ensure your Maple Walnut Apple Crisp has that delightful crunch—enjoy!
Maple Walnut Apple Crisp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 6 cups apples, peeled, cored, and sliced (about 6 medium apples, such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp salt
For the Topping:
- 3/4 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (can substitute with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor)
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
For Serving:
- Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and about 40-45 minutes for baking. So, you’re looking at around 1 hour total to enjoy this comforting dessert!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats up, take a 9-inch baking dish and lightly grease it with butter or cooking spray. This helps to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Apple Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, toss your sliced apples with lemon juice, 1/4 cup of maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Make sure all the apple slices are coated well with the mixture. This step enhances the flavor and prevents browning!
3. Layer the Apples:
Transfer the apple mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread the apples evenly across the bottom of the dish so they cook evenly.
4. Make the Topping:
In another bowl, mix together the rolled oats, chopped walnuts, flour, brown sugar, and melted butter. Then, stir in the remaining 1/4 cup of maple syrup until everything is well combined and crumbly. This will create that delicious crunchy topping!
5. Add the Topping:
Sprinkle the oat and walnut mixture evenly over the apples in the baking dish. Don’t press it down too firmly; you want some texture in the topping.
6. Bake and Enjoy:
Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. You’ll want to see a lovely golden brown topping and the apples bubbling beneath.
7. Cool and Serve:
Once it’s done, take it out and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve your Maple Walnut Apple Crisp warm, and for a delightful touch, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top. Enjoy the cozy flavors!
Enjoy your delicious Maple Walnut Apple Crisp! It’s perfect for gatherings or a simple sweet treat at home. 😊
Can I Use Different Types of Apples in This Recipe?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are great choices, you can experiment with other varieties like Fuji, Braeburn, or Gala. Just keep in mind that some apples are sweeter than others, so you may want to adjust the amount of maple syrup accordingly.
Can I Prepare This Apple Crisp in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the apple filling and topping separately up to a day in advance. Store them in the refrigerator, and then assemble and bake just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual servings.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! To make it gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure to check that your oats are certified gluten-free as well!
