Ingredients:
For the Apple Filling:
- 2 medium apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix for tartness and sweetness)
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- Squeeze of lemon juice (about 1/2 teaspoon)
For the Crisp Topping:
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the apples: Peel, core, and dice the apples into bite-sized pieces.
- Make the crisp topping: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Cut in the cold butter pieces using a pastry blender, your fingers, or two knives until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the nuts (if using).
- Cook the apples: Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and lemon juice. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes until the apples have softened slightly but still retain some firmness.
- Assemble: Sprinkle the crisp topping evenly over the apples in the skillet.
- Cook the crisp: Reduce heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and cook for approximately 10-15 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are tender. Check occasionally and stir gently to prevent burning.
- Serve: Serve immediately while warm, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream, if desired.
Tips:
- Variety of apples: Use your favorite baking apple for varied flavors.
- Adjust sweetness: Increase or decrease the brown sugar in the filling and topping based on your preference.
- For added spice: Include a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the crisp topping.
- Make it gluten-free: Use certified gluten-free flour and oats.
