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Grandma’s Heartwarming Apple Crisp

Grandma’s Heartwarming Apple Crisp

The warmth of a beloved family recipe, a sprinkle of nostalgia, and the comforting aroma of cinnamon and baked apples – this is Grandma’s Heartwarming Apple Crisp. Just like slipping into a cherished memory, this dish invites you to savor every bite where crunch meets a luscious apple filling. It’s the perfect blend of love and flavor straight from Grandma’s kitchen to yours.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 cups peeled and sliced Granny Smith apples
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup old-fashioned oats
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

Preparing the Oven and Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving later.

Coating the Apples

In a large bowl, toss the sliced apples with lemon juice, granulated sugar, and cinnamon. This step not only adds sweetness but also infuses a delightful aroma into the apples.

Evenly Layering the Apples

Spread the coated apple slices evenly in the prepared baking dish. Make sure they form a consistent layer for even baking.

Preparing the Crumble Topping

In another bowl, mix together the flour, brown sugar, oats, and salt. Add the cold butter cubes and use a pastry cutter or fingers to incorporate until the mixture forms small pea-sized clumps.

Layering the Crumble

Evenly distribute the crumble topping over the apples, patting gently to ensure it adheres to the fruit but remains crumbly.

Baking

Place in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. Bake until the topping becomes golden brown and the apples are bubbly and tender.

Cooling and Serving

Allow the apple crisp to cool for a few minutes before serving. It pairs perfectly with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra layer of indulgence.

Notes

Choosing the Right Apples

Granny Smith apples are recommended for their tartness and firmness, which balance the sweet taste and hold well during baking. Feel free to experiment with other apple varieties like Honeycrisp or Braeburn for a different flavor profile.

Achieving Perfect Crumble

Using cold butter is crucial for a perfect crumble topping. The colder the butter, the better it will form those delightful, buttery clumps that crisp up beautifully in the oven.

Creating a Gluten-Free Version

For those seeking a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure the oats are certified gluten-free to cater to dietary needs without compromising on flavor or texture.

Adjusting Sweetness

If you prefer a sweeter dessert, consider increasing the granulated and brown sugar amounts slightly. Conversely, you can reduce the sugar for a tarter crisp that highlights the natural apple flavors.

Why Use Lemon Juice?

Lemon juice in the apple mixture prevents oxidation, keeping the apples fresh and vibrant during the baking process. It also enhances the tartness, adding depth to the overall flavor.