Apple Crisp with Oat Streusel is a cozy, classic dessert that’s perfect any time of year, especially when apples are at their best. The warm, tender baked apples are perfectly balanced with a crunchy oat topping that adds just the right amount of sweetness and texture. It’s that kind of dessert that fills your kitchen with a wonderful smell and brings a smile with every bite.
I love making this apple crisp because it’s simple to throw together but feels like a special treat. The oat streusel topping is my favorite part—it has a nutty, chewy crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft apples underneath. I usually add a little cinnamon to the mix to give it that warm, comforting flavor that makes it feel like a hug in dessert form.
My favorite way to enjoy this apple crisp is warm out of the oven with a scoop of vanilla ice cream melting on top. It’s such a lovely combination, especially on a chilly evening or after a big meal. Honestly, it’s the kind of dessert that’s easy to share with family or friends, and it always brings people together. I bet once you try it, this will become one of your go-to desserts too!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: I like using Granny Smith for their tartness and Honeycrisp for sweetness. You can mix both or use Fuji or Braeburn. Just avoid very soft apples like McIntosh, which can get mushy.
Oats: Old-fashioned rolled oats give the best texture for the streusel. If you only have quick oats, they’ll still work but may be softer. Steel-cut oats are too hard here.
Butter: Cold unsalted butter is key to a crumbly topping. You can swap with vegan butter or coconut oil if you need dairy-free, but the texture might change slightly.
Spices: Cinnamon and nutmeg add warmth. Feel free to boost the cinnamon or add a pinch of ground cloves or ginger for a little extra flavor twist.
How Do You Make the Oat Streusel Topping Perfectly Crumbly?
The streusel topping is what really makes this apple crisp special. Here’s how I get it just right:
- Keep your butter cold before mixing—it helps create those nice chunky crumbs instead of a paste.
- Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend the butter into the oat and flour mix. Stop once you see small pea-sized lumps.
- Don’t overwork it—too much mixing can melt the butter and make the topping dense instead of crumbly.
- Spread it evenly over the apples so each bite has some crunchy topping.
These simple steps lead to a topping that stays crisp and golden after baking and pairs perfectly with the soft apples underneath.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 8×8-inch baking dish – perfect size to bake the apples evenly with room for the topping.
- Mixing bowls – one for the apples and one for the oat streusel to keep things organized.
- Pastry cutter or fork – helps you cut cold butter into the dry ingredients for a crumbly topping.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient amounts to get the right balance of flavors.
- Knife and cutting board – to peel and slice the apples easily and safely.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the streusel for extra crunch and a nutty flavor.
- Mix in fresh or frozen berries with the apples for a burst of color and tartness.
- Try different spices like ground ginger or ground cloves for a warming twist in the filling and topping.
- Stir in a handful of shredded coconut to the oat mixture for a tropical note and chewy texture.
Apple Crisp with Oat Streusel
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Apple Filling:
- 6 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and sliced
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
For the Oat Streusel Topping:
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
Time Needed:
You’ll spend about 15 minutes prepping the apples and streusel topping, plus 40 to 45 minutes baking time. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving, so the flavors settle and the topping crisps up nicely.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 8×8-inch (or similar-sized) baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Apple Filling:
In a large bowl, toss sliced apples with granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and vanilla extract (if using). Make sure the apples are evenly coated with the spice mixture.
3. Make the Oat Streusel Topping:
In another bowl, combine rolled oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Add the cold butter pieces. Using a pastry cutter, your fingers, or two forks, mix until the mixture turns crumbly with pea-sized bits of butter.
4. Assemble and Bake:
Spread the apple mixture evenly in the baking dish. Sprinkle the oat streusel topping evenly over the apples. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, until the topping is golden brown and the apple filling is bubbly and tender.
5. Serve:
Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm, and for an extra touch, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top.
Can I Use Frozen Apples for This Apple Crisp?
Yes, you can use frozen apples! Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before mixing with the sugar and spices. This helps prevent the crisp from becoming too watery.
How Do I Store Leftover Apple Crisp?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warm. The topping may soften a bit but will still taste delicious.
Can I Make This Apple Crisp Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can assemble the crisp a few hours ahead and keep it covered in the fridge. Bake fresh when you’re ready so the topping stays crispy and the apples are perfectly tender.
What’s a Great Gluten-Free Substitute for the Flour in the Streusel?
Try using almond flour or a gluten-free baking flour blend in place of all-purpose flour. The texture might be slightly different but it will still be tasty and crumbly!
