The Apple Cranberry Crisp is a delightful dessert that celebrates the best of fall flavors. With its sweet-tart apple and cranberry filling topped with a buttery, crunchy oat topping, this dish is not only comforting but also easy to prepare. Whether served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoyed on its own, this crisp is sure to become a family favorite, perfect for cozy gatherings or festive occasions.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
Readers will love this Apple Cranberry Crisp for its harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The tartness of cranberries perfectly complements the sweetness of apples, creating a balanced filling that is both refreshing and indulgent. This recipe is incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few simple steps and ingredients, making it ideal for both novice and experienced bakers. Additionally, it fits well into a variety of lifestyles, being suitable for those seeking comfort food without the fuss.
Tips and Tricks
- Fruit Selection: Use a mix of sweet and tart apples, such as Granny Smith and Honeycrisp, for a more complex flavor.
- Cranberry Prep: If using fresh cranberries, rinse them and remove any that are bruised or shriveled. You can also slightly cook them in sugar to reduce their tartness if desired.
- Oat Topping: For added flavor, consider toasting the oats in a dry skillet before mixing them with the other topping ingredients. This enhances their nuttiness.
- Spice It Up: Don’t hesitate to add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for an extra layer of warmth.
Make Ahead Tips
To save time, you can prepare the filling a day in advance. Simply combine the sliced apples and cranberries with sugar and spices, and store them in the refrigerator. You can also make the oat topping ahead of time and store it in an airtight container. This will keep fresh for about three days. When you’re ready to bake, just combine the two components and pop it in the oven!
Recipe Variations
- Nutty Addition: Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the topping for a delightful crunch.
- Different Fruits: Mix in other fruits like blueberries or pears for a unique twist on this classic.
- Gluten-Free Option: Swap regular oats for certified gluten-free oats to make this dessert gluten-free.
How to Serve
Serve the Apple Cranberry Crisp warm out of the oven, ideally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top. For a rustic presentation, use a cast iron skillet or a clear glass baking dish to showcase the beautiful layers of fruit and crispy topping. A sprinkle of cinnamon on top can also enhance the visual appeal and flavor.
Pairing Suggestions
Pair this crisp with a warm cup of spiced chai tea or a glass of crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, to balance the sweetness. For a dessert pairing, serve it alongside a slice of pumpkin pie for a festive touch.
How to Store
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze it, wrap the cooled crisp tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
Equipment Needed
- 9-inch baking dish or cast iron skillet
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board for prepping the fruit
Dietary Adaptations
For a vegan version, substitute butter with coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative. To make it nut-free, simply omit any nuts in the topping. For a dairy-free option, make sure to use dairy-free ice cream or whipped cream when serving.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the fall, fresh apples and cranberries are abundant, but during the winter, consider using frozen cranberries and apples for a similar flavor. In the spring or summer, swap cranberries for fresh strawberries or peaches to lighten up the dish.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use frozen fruit? Yes, frozen apples and cranberries work well. Just ensure they’re thawed and drained of excess moisture.
- What if I don’t have cranberries? You can replace them with raisins or dried cranberries for a different flavor profile.
- How long does it take to bake? The crisp typically takes about 30-35 minutes at 350°F (175°C) until the topping is golden brown.
Apple Cranberry Crisp
The Apple Cranberry Crisp is a delightful dessert that celebrates the best of fall flavors.
Ingredients
- 4 medium apples, peeled and sliced
- 2 cups fresh cranberries (or 1 cup dried cranberries)
- 1 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced apples, cranberries, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Toss well to coat and set aside.
- In another bowl, mix the oats, flour, brown sugar, melted butter, and salt until crumbly.
- Spread the fruit mixture evenly in a 9-inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle the oat topping generously over the fruit layer.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the fruit is bubbling.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Nutrition Information
Yield
8Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 369Total Fat 12gSaturated Fat 7gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 4gCholesterol 31mgSodium 74mgCarbohydrates 65gFiber 5gSugar 47gProtein 3g
TastyFitnessRecipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although tastyfitnessrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Making this Apple Cranberry Crisp is not just about enjoying a delicious dessert; it’s about embracing the flavors of the season and creating warm memories with loved ones. Whether for a holiday gathering or a simple weeknight treat, this recipe is sure to please. So gather your ingredients, preheat the oven, and let the aromas of baked apples and cranberries fill your home!