Apple Cranberry Crisp
The Apple Cranberry Crisp is one of those comforting desserts that takes me back to my childhood. I remember the first time I helped my grandmother make it during the fall. The sweet aroma of baked apples and tart cranberries filled the kitchen, making it hard to resist sneaking a taste before it even made it to the table. Every time I whip up this dish, I can almost hear her laughter as we debated the perfect amount of cinnamon to sprinkle on top. It’s not just a dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors and memories. The combination of juicy apples and chewy cranberries, topped with a crispy oat mixture, creates a delightful contrast that’s hard to beat. Whether it’s for Thanksgiving dinner or just a cozy night in, the Apple Cranberry Crisp never fails to impress.
Recipe Snapshot
40 mins
10 mins
30 mins
Medium
250 kcal
3 g
Vegan, Gluten-Free, AIP
9 g
Wooden Spoon, Oven, Chef’s Knife, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet
Why Try This Apple Cranberry Crisp
It’s Perfect for Any Occasion
One of the reasons I adore the Apple Cranberry Crisp is its versatility. It’s suitable for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a festive holiday dinner or enjoying a casual weeknight treat. You can even serve it for breakfast with a dollop of yogurt!
Simple Yet Impressive
This recipe is incredibly easy to make, yet it always impresses! The straightforward steps allow anyone, from novice cooks to seasoned bakers, to create a beautiful dessert without feeling overwhelmed. Plus, the sight of that golden-brown topping emerging from the oven is nothing short of magical.
Seasonal Flavors
Fall is the perfect time to indulge in this recipe as apples and cranberries are at their peak. The fresh, crisp apples combined with tart cranberries create a flavor profile that embodies the essence of autumn, making it a seasonal favorite.
Healthier Dessert Option
With wholesome ingredients like oats and fruit, the Apple Cranberry Crisp can be a healthier dessert choice compared to traditional options. You can feel good about serving it to your loved ones, as it provides some nutritional benefits while still satisfying that sweet craving.
Great for Leftovers
Another outstanding quality of this crisp is its longevity. It keeps well in the fridge for several days, allowing you to enjoy the leftovers for a quick snack or an easy dessert. Just pop it in the microwave, and it’s as good as fresh!
What to Buy for Apple Cranberry Crisp
Creating a delicious Apple Cranberry Crisp begins with the right ingredients. The magic lies in the balance of sweet and tart flavors, complemented by a crunchy topping. Let’s look at these key components that not only taste great together but also enhance the overall experience of this dish.
- 4 cups sliced apples (Granny Smith and Gala): These apples provide the perfect sweetness and tartness.
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar: This helps to enhance the natural sweetness of the apples.
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice: Adds a refreshing zing that balances the sweetness.
- ½ cup dried cranberries: These add a chewy texture and tart flavor.
- ½ cup old-fashioned oats: They provide a hearty texture to the crisp topping.
- ½ cup packed light brown sugar: Adds a rich, caramel-like sweetness.
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour: Helps bind the topping together.
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and depth of flavor.
- ¼ cup butter: Provides richness and helps create a golden topping.
- ½ cup chopped almonds: For a nice crunch and nutty flavor.
How to Assemble Apple Cranberry Crisp
Making a Apple Cranberry Crisp is a straightforward process that anyone can master. Follow these detailed steps, and you will have a warm, comforting dessert that’s both delicious and satisfying. Let’s dive into the preparation!
Grease a 2-quart baking dish. Set it aside. This ensures that your crisp doesn’t stick and makes for easy serving later.
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. Getting the oven hot before you bake helps create a nice, bubbly texture.
Arrange the sliced apples in the prepared dish. Take your time to layer them evenly; this helps with even cooking.
Sprinkle the dried cranberries on top of the apples. Their chewy texture will complement the soft apples beautifully.
Drizzle the lemon juice over the fruit. This not only adds flavor but also helps to keep the apples from browning.
Evenly sprinkle the granulated sugar over the fruit layer. This will enhance the sweetness of the apples as they bake.
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the oats, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and chopped almonds. Stir well to combine these dry ingredients.
Cut in the butter into the dry mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. This will create that crispy topping we all love.
Sprinkle the topping evenly over the filling in the baking dish. Make sure to cover all the fruit; this will create a delicious, crispy crust.
Bake the crisp for 30 to 35 minutes, until the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown. Keep an eye on it towards the end; the aroma will be irresistible!
Serve warm. You can enjoy it plain or with a scoop of ice cream for an extra treat!
Things Worth Knowing
- Use a mix of apples: Combining different varieties of apples will enhance the flavor and texture.
- Don’t skip the lemon juice: It brightens the flavors and prevents the apples from browning.
- Make ahead: You can prepare the filling and topping separately in advance; just assemble before baking.
- Check for doneness: The apples should be tender when you poke them with a fork, and the topping should be golden.
Recipe Variations about Apple Cranberry Crisp
There are countless ways to put your spin on the Apple Cranberry Crisp. Here are some delightful variations and tips that will make this recipe uniquely yours!
- Add nuts: Mix in some chopped pecans or walnuts for added texture and flavor.
- Spice it up: Experiment with spices like nutmeg or ginger for a warm, spiced flavor.
- Try different fruits: Substitute some of the apples with pears or peaches for a unique twist.
- Sweetener alternatives: Use maple syrup or honey instead of granulated sugar for a natural sweetness.
- Top with ice cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream takes this dessert to the next level!
- Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free oats and flour for a gluten-free version.
- Serving options: Serve with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
What to Serve With Apple Cranberry Crisp
Serving your Apple Cranberry Crisp can be just as fun as making it! Here are some delicious options to consider:
- Vanilla ice cream: A classic pairing that enhances the warm, fruity flavors.
- Whipped cream: Light and airy, it balances the richness of the crisp.
- Yogurt: Serve it with a scoop of yogurt for a healthier breakfast option.
- Fresh fruits: A side of fresh berries can add a refreshing touch to the meal.
- Seasonal drinks: Pair it with a warm spiced cider or a cup of tea for a cozy experience.
- Cheese platter: A small cheese board can add a savory contrast to the sweetness of the crisp.
- Breakfast option: Serve leftovers for breakfast topped with Greek yogurt and honey.
FAQ
Conclusion
The Apple Cranberry Crisp is a delightful combination of sweet and tart flavors that creates a warm, inviting dessert. It’s not just a recipe; it’s a way to celebrate the flavors of fall and the joy of family gatherings. So, gather your ingredients and give this recipe a try. Your loved ones will appreciate the effort, and you’ll find yourself basking in the sweet aroma of nostalgia.
Apple Cranberry Crisp
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Grease a 2 quart baking dish. Set aside.
- Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.
- Arrange apple slices in the dish.
- Sprinkle cranberries on top.
- Drizzle lemon juice over the fruit.
- Sprinkle granulated sugar over the fruit.
- In a medium mixing bowl, stir together oats, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and almonds.
- Cut in butter.
- Sprinkle the topping evenly over the filling.
- Bake the crisp for 30 to 35 minutes, until the apples are tender and the topping is golden.
- Serve warm.
