Easy Apple Crisp with Pecans: The Ultimate Autumn Dessert
Autumn is here, and there’s nothing quite like the warm, inviting aroma of freshly baked apple crisp wafting through your home. This Easy Apple Crisp with Pecans is a celebration of the season, blending sweet, tender apples with the warmth of cinnamon and the delightful crunch of pecans. It’s a simple yet scrumptious treat that will have your whole family asking for seconds! I invite you to subscribe for more delicious recipes delivered straight to your inbox!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This apple crisp is truly a winner for many reasons! First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to prepare. With minimal effort, you can create a dessert that’s bursting with flavor and nostalgia. The sweet, caramelized apples paired with that crispy, buttery topping provide a delightful contrast in textures. Plus, it’s a great way to use up those beautiful fall apples that are in abundance. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and you have a dessert that’s as comforting as a cozy blanket on a chilly day!
Ingredients
– 6 cups peeled and thinly sliced apples (about 6-7 medium apples)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/3 cup granulated sugar
– 1/3 cup brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 2/3 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup old-fashioned oats
– 1/3 cup brown sugar (for topping)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
Necessary Tools
– 9×13-inch baking dish
– Large mixing bowl
– Medium mixing bowl
– Pastry cutter or fork (or your fingers!)
– Measuring cups and spoons
– Knife and cutting board
Ingredient Swaps and Additions
Feel free to customize your apple crisp! You can swap out the apples for pears or peaches for a different flavor profile. If you’re not a fan of pecans, walnuts or even almonds can be a wonderful substitute. For an added twist, consider tossing in some dried cranberries or raisins for a hint of tartness. You could even drizzle a bit of caramel sauce on top before serving for an extra special treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease your 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Prepare the apples: In a large bowl, toss the sliced apples with lemon juice, granulated sugar, 1/3 cup brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg until everything is well combined. Pour this sweet mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
3. Make the topping: In a medium bowl, combine the flour, oats, 1/3 cup brown sugar, and salt. Add in the cubed butter. Using a pastry cutter, fork, or your fingers, blend the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the chopped pecans to add that delightful crunch!
4. Assemble: Evenly sprinkle the topping over the apple mixture in the baking dish.
5. Bake: Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown.
6. Serve: Let the apple crisp cool slightly before digging in. It’s especially delicious warm, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream!
Serving Suggestions
This apple crisp pairs beautifully with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce. For a festive touch, consider serving it with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dollop of crème fraîche.
Pro Tips for Success
– Choose a mix of sweet and tart apples for a more complex flavor! Granny Smith and Honeycrisp work wonderfully together.
– Be sure to slice your apples fairly thin; this ensures they cook evenly and become delightfully tender.
– Don’t skip the resting time after baking—it allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Storing and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave for a quick warm-up or place it in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
FAQ Section
– Can I use frozen apples?
Yes, but you may need to adjust the sugar, as frozen apples can be sweeter.
– Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the apple mixture and topping separately, then assemble and bake when you’re ready to enjoy.
– What if I don’t have pecans?
You can substitute with any nut of your choice or leave them out entirely.
Conclusion
This Easy Apple Crisp with Pecans is sure to become a cherished fall favorite in your household. Its simplicity and deliciousness are hard to beat! I’d love to see your creations—please leave a review, share photos, or tag your dish on Pinterest or Instagram!
Nutritional Information
Approximate nutritional information per serving:
– Calories: 280
– Total Fat: 14g
– Saturated Fat: 7g
– Cholesterol: 30mg
– Sodium: 105mg
– Total Carbohydrates: 37g
– Dietary Fiber: 3g
– Sugars: 12g
– Protein: 3g
