This Almond Apple Crisp is a warm and cozy dessert that combines sweet apples with crunchy almond topping. The mix of flavors creates a comforting treat for any occasion!
I love how easy it is to whip this up! Just slice the apples, sprinkle the topping, and let the oven do its magic. It’s perfect with a scoop of ice cream, don’t you think? 🍏🥧
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: Use a mix of Granny Smith for tartness and Fuji for sweetness. If you have Honeycrisp or Braeburn apples, those work great too! You can also swap in canned pie filling if you’re short on fresh apples.
Lemon Juice: This prevents the apples from browning. If you don’t have fresh lemons, a splash of vinegar or even lime juice will work well.
Sugars: Granulated and brown sugar give a nice sweetness and depth. If you want a healthier option, try using coconut sugar or maple syrup, though you might need to adjust the liquid in the recipe.
Brown Sugar: Light or dark brown sugar can both be used. Dark gives a richer flavor, but either works fine. Consider using honey or agave syrup as a substitution in a pinch.
Sliced Almonds: For those with nut allergies, substitute with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a similar crunch.
How Do You Get That Perfect Crisp Topping?
The secret to a great almond crisp topping lies in the texture. You want it to be crumbly, not too wet or dry. Here’s a quick guide:
- Keep your butter cold. This helps create that lovely crumbly texture. Cut it into cubes and work quickly!
- Mix the dry ingredients well before adding butter. It ensures even distribution.
- Use a pastry cutter, two forks, or your fingers to blend the butter into the mixture. Stop when you see pea-sized bits.
This process ensures that as the topping bakes, the butter melts and forms a crispy, golden crust. Enjoy the delightful crunch on top of sweet, tender apples! 🍏✨
How to Make Almond Apple Crisp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Apple Filling:
- 6 cups peeled, cored, and sliced apples (about 5-6 medium apples; a mix of Granny Smith and Fuji works well)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp salt
For the Almond Crisp Topping:
- 3/4 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Almond Apple Crisp will take about 15 minutes to prepare and 40-45 minutes to bake. Let it cool slightly before serving, and you’re all set for a comforting dessert!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it’s ready to bake your crisp perfectly!
2. Prepare the Apples:
In a large mixing bowl, toss the sliced apples with the lemon juice. This helps keep them fresh and adds a nice zing. Next, add granulated sugar, 1/4 cup brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix everything together until the apples are well coated.
3. Assemble the Filling:
Once your apples are sweetened and spiced, transfer the mixture into a greased 9-inch pie dish or a suitable baking dish. Spread it out evenly so that every bite is full of flavor.
4. Make the Almond Crisp Topping:
In another bowl, combine oats, sliced almonds, flour, 1/3 cup brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Give it a good stir! Then, add the cold butter cubes. Using a pastry cutter, two forks, or your fingers, mix until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs with some pea-sized butter pieces.
5. Top Your Apples:
Evenly sprinkle the almond oat topping over your apple mixture. Make sure to cover all the apples for a delicious crunch on top!
6. Bake and Enjoy:
Pop your dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 40-45 minutes, or until the topping is golden and the apples are tender when pierced with a fork. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
7. Serve and Indulge:
This Almond Apple Crisp is best enjoyed warm. Try it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top for an extra tasty treat!
Enjoy every delicious bite of this comforting dessert that beautifully combines sweet apples and crunchy almond topping!
Can I Use Different Types of Apples?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Fuji are great together, you can mix and match with Honeycrisp, Braeburn, or any favorite variety. Just aim for a mix of sweet and tart for the best flavor!
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! Simply replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, and ensure your oats are labeled gluten-free. This will make your almond apple crisp safe for those with gluten sensitivities!
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, or until warmed through. You can also enjoy it cold or at room temperature!
Can I Add Other Ingredients to the Crisp Topping?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in some chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra crunch, or add a handful of dried fruit like raisins or cranberries for added sweetness and texture.
