This Apple Cranberry Crisp is a warm, cozy dessert bursting with sweet apples and tangy cranberries. The crumbly topping adds that perfect crunch that everyone loves!
I like to serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top—because who doesn’t love a cool treat with a warm dessert? It’s truly a delightful combo! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: Good choices are Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. They provide a nice balance of tartness and sweetness. If those aren’t available, any firm apples like Braeburn or Fuji will work too. I prefer Granny Smith for the refreshing bite!
Cranberries: Fresh are great, but frozen cranberries can also work well. Just make sure to thaw and drain them first to avoid excess moisture. I love adding a mix of both for a more vibrant flavor!
Granulated Sugar: This sweetens the filling, but you can adjust the amount based on your taste. Try honey or maple syrup for a natural option. If you’re watching sugar, you can use sugar substitutes like stevia.
Oats: Old-fashioned oats give the best texture in the topping. If you have quick oats, they can be used, but the topping may become a bit softer. I always stick with old-fashioned oats for that pleasant crunch.
Baking Nuts: Walnuts and pecans offer a nice crunch and flavor. If you’re nut-free, simply leave it out. I prefer adding nuts for that extra layer of goodness!
How Can You Achieve the Perfect Crisp Topping?
The topping is key to a great Apple Cranberry Crisp, and here’s how to get it just right! Start with cold butter, as this will help create that crumbly texture we all love.
- Mix oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt in one bowl.
- Cut in the cold butter until it looks like coarse crumbs. A pastry cutter or your fingers works wonders here.
- If using, stir in chopped nuts for some extra texture and flavor.
- Spread the topping evenly without pressing down too hard, keeping it fluffy.
This method helps achieve that delightful crunchy topping, while still letting the fruit filling shine underneath!
How to Make Apple Cranberry Crisp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 5 cups peeled, cored, and sliced apples (about 4 medium apples, such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
For the Topping:
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
- Optional: 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
For Serving:
- Vanilla ice cream (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Apple Cranberry Crisp takes about 15 minutes of prep time and around 40-45 minutes to bake. You’ll have a wonderful dessert ready in about an hour, perfect for sharing with family or friends!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating up, lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prepare for the fruit mixture.
2. Prepare the Fruit Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced apples, cranberries, granulated sugar, 1/4 cup flour, 1/2 tsp cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Toss everything together until the fruit is well coated. This helps all those delicious flavors mix in! Transfer this mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly across the bottom.
3. Mix the Crisp Topping:
In another bowl, prepare the crisp topping by mixing together the oats, 3/4 cup flour, brown sugar, 1/2 tsp cinnamon, and salt. Make sure it’s well combined. This topping will give you that lovely crunch! Then, add the cold butter pieces and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. If you’re using nuts, now’s the time to stir them in!
4. Assemble the Crisp:
Once your topping is ready, spread it evenly over the fruit mixture in the baking dish, making sure to cover it well. This helps keep the fruit nice and juicy while baking.
5. Bake:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 40-45 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the topping is golden brown and the fruit mixture is bubbling around the edges. Your home will smell amazing!
6. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the crisp from the oven and let it cool slightly. This will make it easier to serve and will help it hold together a bit better. It’s delicious warm! Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream on top for an extra special treat.
Enjoy your cozy and delicious Apple Cranberry Crisp!
Can I Use Different Types of Apples?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples are great choices, you can use any firm apples like Braeburn or Fuji. Mixing different types can enhance the flavor and texture of your crisp!
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes, you can! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend. Make sure your oats are certified gluten-free as well. It will taste just as delicious!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
Can I Freeze Apple Cranberry Crisp?
Yes, you can freeze it! Assemble the crisp but don’t bake it. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed!
