This Apple Cranberry Crisp is a warm and cozy dessert that features sweet apples and tart cranberries, all topped with a crunchy oat and brown sugar mix. It’s a hug in a dish!
I love how the flavors of the apples and cranberries blend together. Plus, that crunchy topping is perfect with a scoop of ice cream. Who could resist that? 🍏🍂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: For this crisp, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best. If you have sweeter apples on hand, you can mix them with a tart variety to balance the flavor.
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries are great, but frozen ones work well too. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before using to avoid excess moisture.
Granulated Sugar: Adjust the sugar levels based on your sweetness preference. If you’re looking for a healthier option, consider using coconut sugar or honey.
Rolled Oats: Old-fashioned oats give the best texture, but quick oats can also be used if that’s all you have. Just keep in mind that quick oats may become mushier.
Butter: Unsalted butter is preferred, but you can substitute with coconut oil or applesauce for a dairy-free option. Just note that it might change the flavor slightly.
How Do You Make the Perfect Crisp Topping?
Getting that crunchy topping just right can be tricky, but here are some tips!
- Use cold butter. This helps in creating a crumbly texture rather than a gooey one.
- Mix the dry ingredients well before adding butter to ensure even distribution of flavors.
- Don’t overwork the butter into the mixture. Stop when it looks like coarse crumbs—this is key for that delightful crunch!
- If time allows, refrigerate the topping for about 30 minutes before baking. It will help it get crispier in the oven.
With these tips, you’ll be on your way to a deliciously warm and inviting Apple Cranberry Crisp. Happy baking!
Apple Cranberry Crisp
Ingredients:
For the Filling:
- 5 cups apples, peeled, cored, and sliced (about 4-5 medium apples, preferably a tart variety like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar, divided
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
For the Crisp Topping:
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Time Needed:
This recipe will take about 15-20 minutes to prepare and 40-45 minutes to bake, giving you a total of about 1 hour to delight in your delicious Apple Cranberry Crisp!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your crisp will bake evenly right from the start.
2. Prepare the Filling:
In a large bowl, mix the sliced apples and cranberries. Add 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons of flour, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and lemon juice. Toss everything well, so the fruit is nicely coated. Once done, pour this delicious fruit mixture into a 9-inch pie dish or any similar baking dish.
3. Make the Crisp Topping:
In another bowl, combine the rolled oats, 3/4 cup flour, brown sugar, salt, and 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon. Now, add the cold butter pieces to this dry mixture. It’s time to get your hands in there—or use a pastry cutter! Mix until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs; this will make it nice and crunchy!
4. Assemble and Bake:
Evenly sprinkle the oat crumble topping over the fruit filling in the baking dish. Now, pop it into your preheated oven! Bake for about 40-45 minutes, until the topping is golden brown and the filling is all bubbly and inviting.
5. Let it Cool and Serve:
Once out of the oven, let the Apple Cranberry Crisp cool for a few minutes. This will make it easier to serve. If you like, you can dust it with powdered sugar before serving. Enjoy it warm, and for an extra treat, top it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream!
Enjoy your cozy, delicious Apple Cranberry Crisp! It’s the perfect dessert to share with friends or family on a chilly evening.
Can I Use Different Fruits in This Crisp?
Absolutely! You can mix and match fruits based on what you have. Peaches, pears, or blueberries all work wonderfully alongside apples and cranberries. Just adjust the sugar according to the sweetness of the fruits you choose.
Can I Make This Crisp Gluten-Free?
Yes! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure your oats are certified gluten-free. The crisp will turn out just as delicious!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to warm it through and restore some crispiness.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the filling and topping in advance. Store them separately in the fridge for up to a day, then assemble and bake when you’re ready to serve!
