This Maple Walnut Apple Crisp is the perfect sweet treat! It’s made with juicy apples, crunchy walnuts, and a yummy maple flavor that makes it special. 😋
I love serving it warm, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. Trust me, you’ll want seconds! 🍏🍦
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: Granny Smith apples are great for this recipe because their tartness balances the sweetness of the maple syrup. However, you can mix them with sweeter varieties like Fuji or Honeycrisp for a different flavor.
Maple Syrup: Pure maple syrup adds a rich, natural sweetness. If you don’t have it, local honey or agave syrup can work in a pinch, but it’ll change the flavor slightly.
Walnuts: Chopped walnuts add a lovely crunch. If you’re allergic, feel free to substitute with pecans or skip them entirely for nut-free cooking.
Butter: Unsalted butter is best since it gives you control over the saltiness. You can use coconut oil or even a plant-based butter alternative for a dairy-free option.
How Do I Get the Apples Just Right?
Getting your apples soft yet not mushy is key to a great crisp. Here’s how to make sure they’re perfect:
- Slice apples evenly to ensure they cook uniformly.
- Mix with lemon juice right away after slicing to prevent browning and enhance flavor.
- Cook until just tender during baking; if they are bubbling and the topping is golden brown, they are ready!
Take your time with this step, and you’ll have a delicious filling that pairs wonderfully with the crisp topping!
Maple Walnut Apple Crisp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Apple Filling:
- 6 cups apples, peeled, cored, and sliced (Granny Smith or a mix of tart and sweet apples)
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/3 cup pure maple syrup
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp salt
For the Crisp Topping:
- 3/4 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Maple Walnut Apple Crisp takes about 15 minutes to prep and 40-45 minutes to bake, for a total time of around 1 hour. It’s a simple and enjoyable recipe perfect for cozy evenings or gatherings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This way, it’s ready for your yummy apple crisp once you prep everything!
2. Prepare the Apples:
In a large bowl, toss your sliced apples with lemon juice to keep them from browning. This adds a nice brightness to the flavor! Next, mix in the maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir well until all the apple slices are evenly coated.
3. Assemble the Apple Layer:
Take your apple mixture and pour it into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out into an even layer. This will be the delicious base of your crisp!
4. Create the Crisp Topping:
In another bowl, combine the rolled oats, flour, chopped walnuts, and brown sugar. Next, pour the melted butter over this mixture and stir until it’s well mixed and crumbly. This topping will give your crisp its delightful crunch!
5. Add the Topping and Bake:
Now, sprinkle the oat and walnut topping evenly over the apple layer, covering the apples nicely. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 40-45 minutes, or until the topping turns golden brown and the apples are bubbly and tender.
6. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the crisp from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This will allow the juices to settle. Serve it warm, and for an extra treat, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream on top!
Enjoy your warm and cozy Maple Walnut Apple Crisp, filled with a perfect blend of sweet, nutty, and spiced flavors! 🍏🍂
Can I Use Different Types of Apples?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples are excellent for their tartness, you can mix in sweeter varieties like Fuji or Honeycrisp for added flavor complexity. Just aim for a balance of tart and sweet apples!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving to enjoy that warm, comforting taste again!
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the apple filling and topping separately a day in advance. Just refrigerate them and assemble before baking. This way, you’ll have a quick dessert ready to go!
What Can I Substitute for Walnuts?
If you’re allergic to walnuts or prefer not to use them, you can substitute them with chopped pecans, almonds, or even omit the nuts for a nut-free option. The crisp will still taste delicious!
