Apple Cider Glazed Apple Crisp is a warm and comforting dessert that’s perfect for cozy nights. Sweet apples are topped with a crunchy mix, all drizzled with a yummy cider glaze!
Honestly, the aroma of this dish baking in the oven is simply irresistible. I always end up stealing bites before it even cools! 😍 Serve it with ice cream for an extra treat!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: A mix of tart Granny Smith and sweet Red Delicious works best for balance. If you have Honeycrisps or Fuji apples, they would be a great alternative. Just remember that different apples can change the crisp’s sweetness and texture.
Apple Cider: Apple cider adds a fruity flavor. If you don’t have it, apple juice can work in a pinch, but it might be a bit sweeter. If you’re looking for a non-alcoholic alternative, simply dilute some vinegar in water with a touch of sugar.
Rolled Oats: Old-fashioned rolled oats are key for the crumbly topping. If you’re gluten-free, you can use gluten-free oats, which are widely available. Quick oats will also work, but the texture may be slightly different.
Butter: Unsalted butter is my choice for better control over the saltiness of the dish. If you need a dairy-free option, coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute can easily replace it.
How Can I Get the Apples Just Right in My Crisp?
Getting the apples just right is crucial for a successful Apple Crisp. You want them tender but not mushy. Here’s how to do it:
- Choose a mix of sweet and tart apples for depth of flavor.
- Slice the apples uniformly to ensure even cooking.
- Toss with ingredients like sugar and lemon juice to enhance the flavor.
- Let the mixture sit for 10 minutes to absorb the flavors before baking.
This gives the apples a chance to soften slightly, ensuring they bake nicely in the oven!
Apple Cider Glazed Apple Crisp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Apple Filling:
- 4 large apples (a mix of tart Granny Smith and sweet Red Delicious), peeled, cored, and sliced
- 1 cup apple cider
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
For the Crisp Topping:
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
For Serving:
- Vanilla ice cream
- Caramel sauce or apple cider glaze (optional, for drizzling)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This scrumptious dessert will take you about 15 minutes to prepare and around 40-45 minutes to bake. It’s perfect for a lovely evening treat or a cozy gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Baking Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab an 8×8-inch baking dish and lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Toss Those Apples:
In a large bowl, combine your sliced apples with the apple cider, granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Give it a good toss and let it sit for about 10 minutes so the apples can soak up all those wonderful flavors.
3. Make the Crisp Topping:
While the apples are mingling, prepare the crisp topping. In a medium bowl, mix together the oats, flour, brown sugar, salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon. This will create a deliciously crunchy topping!
4. Combine the Mixtures:
Add the cold butter pieces to the oat mixture. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to mix it all together until you get a crumbly texture with some pea-sized chunks.
5. Assemble:
Pour the apple mixture into the prepared baking dish, making sure to spread it out evenly. Next, sprinkle the oat mixture generously over the top of the apples.
6. Bake It Up:
Place your baking dish in the oven and let it bake for about 40-45 minutes, or until the topping turns a lovely golden brown and the apples are bubbly and tender.
7. Make the Glaze (Optional):
If you’re feeling fancy and want to add the apple cider glaze, heat 1/2 cup of apple cider with 1 tablespoon of brown sugar in a small saucepan over medium heat. Let it simmer until it thickens to a syrupy consistency, then set it aside to cool slightly.
8. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the crisp from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. Drizzle over some apple cider glaze or caramel sauce if you like extra sweetness!
Enjoy your delightful Apple Cider Glazed Apple Crisp—it’s sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Different Types of Apples for This Crisp?
Absolutely! While a mix of Granny Smith and Red Delicious is recommended for balance, you can use any apples you enjoy. Honeycrisps and Fuji work wonderfully too. Just keep in mind that sweet apples will make your crisp sweeter!
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the apple filling and topping separately and store them in the fridge for up to a day before baking. Just assemble and bake right before serving for the best texture!
What Should I Do With Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or bake it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
How Do I Achieve a Crunchy Topping?
For a crunchy topping, make sure your butter is cold and work it into the dry ingredients until you have a crumbly texture. Also, be careful not to overmix; leaving some larger chunks will add to the crispiness!
