Applesauce Crisp
Applesauce Crisp is just like a traditional apple crisp, but with the bonus of applesauce added to the filling. The applesauce keeps it extra moist while the fresh apples give it texture. Topped with a buttery cinnamon oat mixture, it bakes up golden and crisp. So yummy!
Check out my other favorite apple recipes: Applesauce Fritters, Apple Pie, or Easy Fried Apples.
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I love how this classic fall dessert combines the best fall dessert flavors without all the fuss. It’s one of those desserts that looks fancy but comes together so easily.
This classic apple crisp has become my personal favorite apple dessert during apple season. It has a crunchy topping that pairs perfectly with the sweet apple mixture.
What you’ll love about this Apple Crisp Recipe:
- QUICK & EASY – Perfect for busy weeknights, this fruit crisp recipe comes together in no time with simple ingredients.
- BUDGET FRIENDLY – This great recipe uses basic, affordable ingredients making it easy on the wallet.
- FAMILY-FRIENDLY – The sweet, oat topping goodness and comforting flavors make it a hit with the whole family.
Recipe Ingredients:
You’ll need the following ingredients to make this Easy Apple Crisp:
- For the filling:
- Sweetened applesauce
- Medium apples (I used 2 Granny Smith apples and 1 Gala apple)
- Brown sugar
- Vanilla extract
- Ground cinnamon
- Cornstarch
- For the crumble topping:
- Old-fashioned oats- You can use quick oats instead, it will give you a topping similar to an apple crumble.
- All-purpose flour
- Light Brown sugar
- Cold salted butter
Ingredient Notes:
- Sweetened Applesauce: Provides moisture and sweetness to the base. For the best results don’t skip the applesauce.
- Apple Varieties: The combination creates the perfect flavor balance, but golden delicious, Honeycrisp, Pink Lady, or any apple of your choice can be used.
- Cold Butter: Essential for creating that perfect streusel topping, don’t let it come to room temperature before cutting it in.
How to make Applesauce Crisp step-by-step:
Check out the quick visual guides below. For full instructions and ingredients, see the printable recipe card at the end.
Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine applesauce, sliced apples, brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and cornstarch. Mix until well combined. Pour into the prepared baking dish.
Step 3: In a medium bowl, mix oats, flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cut in the cold butter with a fork or pastry cutter until crumbly.
Step 4: Sprinkle the topping evenly over the apple mixture.
Step 5: Bake time is 40-45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
Step 6: Cool for 10 minutes before serving. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream if desired.
PRO TIP:
If this is your first time making this recipe, slice apples into uniform pieces for even cooking. You can also sprinkle a little lemon juice on the apple slices to prevent them from browning.
Storage and Reheating:
Storage: Let cool to room temperature, then store leftovers in the refrigerator in an airtight container covered with a lid or plastic wrap. It can be kept for up to 3 days.
Reheating: When reheating, cover with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning and warm in a 300°F oven for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
Freezing: Place the crisp in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before reheating.
Additions and Substitutions:
ADDITIONS:
- Nuts: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the topping for extra crunch and flavor.
- Sweetener: Drizzle with maple syrup before serving instead of an ice cream topper.
- Fruit: Mix in fresh cranberries for a tart contrast to the sweet filling.
- Serving: Top with a scoop of ice cream or whipped cream.
SUBSTITUTIONS:
- Sugar: Use white sugar instead of brown sugar for a different flavor profile.
- Apples: Any combination of apples works well for this easy apple crisp recipe.
- Butter: Melted butter can be used, though cold butter creates better texture.
- Pan: A sheet pan can work for larger batches, adjusting baking time accordingly.
FAQs about this Apple Crisp with Oatmeal:
What is the difference between apple crisp and apple betty?
Apple betty has breadcrumb layers throughout, while apple crisp has fruit on bottom with a crisp topping on top.
What are the best apples to use for apple crisp?
A mix of tart apples like Granny Smith with sweeter varieties like Gala works perfectly for balanced flavor.
How to prevent a soggy bottom in apple crisp?
Make sure to use the cornstarch in the filling and don’t skip the 10-minute cooling time before serving.
What can I serve with this Easy Apple Crisp?
This is such a good recipe to serve with as scoop of vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce.
If you love fruit crisp recipes, our Cherry Crisp is great, and our Cherry Cobbler is super easy!
DID YOU MAKE THIS RECIPE?
I’m excited for you to try this Applesauce Crisp! After you make it, please leave a rating to let me know your thoughts on it – I’m eager to hear if you loved it as much as we do! Find us on IG + TikTok: @littlechefwithin
Applesauce Crisp
Equipment
Ingredients
For the filling:
- 2 cups sweetened applesauce
- 3 medium apples peeled and sliced (I used 2 granny smith and 1 Gala apples)
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
For the crisp topping:
- 3/4 cup old-fashioned oats
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/3 cup cold salted butter cubed
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, combine applesauce, sliced apples, brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and cornstarch. Mix until well combined. Pour into the prepared baking dish. 2 cups sweetened applesauce,3 medium apples,1/2 cup light brown sugar,1 teaspoon vanilla extract,1 teaspoon ground cinnamon,2 tablespoons cornstarch.
- In another bowl, mix oats, flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cut in the cold butter with a fork or pastry cutter until crumbly. 3/4 cup old-fashioned oats,1/2 cup all-purpose flour,1/3 cup brown sugar,1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon,1/3 cup cold salted butter.
- Sprinkle the topping evenly over the apple mixture.
- Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
- Cool for 10 minutes before serving. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream if desired.
Notes
Pro Tip:
Slice apples into uniform pieces for even cooking. You can also sprinkle a little lemon juice on the apple slices to prevent them from browning.Nutrition
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