This Bourbon Apple Crisp is a warm, cozy dessert that combines sweet apples with a crunchy topping. The hint of bourbon adds a special twist that makes it even more fun!
I like to serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top—yum! Perfect for gatherings or a simple treat after a long day. You’ll want to make this one again and again! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are fantastic choices for their tartness and firmness. If you want a sweeter touch, you might try Fuji or Gala apples. Just remember to mix them for a nice balance of flavors!
Bourbon: The bourbon adds depth, but if you’re avoiding alcohol, you can replace it with extra vanilla extract or almond extract for a different yet delightful flavor.
Oats: Old-fashioned rolled oats bring texture and chewiness to the topping. If you only have quick oats, they will work too, but they might yield a softer texture. Gluten-free oats can be used for a gluten-free version.
Butter: Unsalted butter is recommended, but if you’re short on it, coconut oil or a plant-based butter can serve as good alternatives. This changes the flavor slightly but is just as delicious!
How Do I Get the Perfect Crisp Topping?
Getting that crunchy topping is key for a great bourbon apple crisp. Here’s how to do it just right!
- Start with cold butter. Cut it into smaller pieces and mix it quickly into the flour and oats using your fingertips. You want crumbs, not soup!
- The goal is to create a mix that clumps and resembles coarse crumbs. This helps in achieving that coveted crunch.
- Don’t overmix! You want some visible butter chunks for that golden, crunchy result that bakes beautifully.
Remember to let your crisp cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps it set a bit and makes it easier to scoop. Enjoy your delicious dessert!
How to Make Bourbon Apple Crisp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 6 cups peeled, cored, and sliced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 2 tsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp bourbon
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Crisp Topping:
- 3/4 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
For Serving:
- Vanilla ice cream, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Bourbon Apple Crisp will take about 15 minutes to prepare and then approximately 40 to 45 minutes to bake in the oven. Total time is around 1 hour. It’s super simple, and the cozy aromas of baking will fill your kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a 9×9 inch baking dish and lightly grease it to prevent sticking. Simple enough!
2. Mix the Apple Filling:
In a large bowl, take those lovely sliced apples and combine them with the granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, bourbon, and vanilla extract. Use a big spoon to toss everything together so the apples are nicely coated with the sweet and warm flavors.
3. Transfer the Apples:
Once your apples are mixed, pour the apple mixture into the greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly so that it cooks nicely.
4. Make the Crisp Topping:
In another bowl, combine the rolled oats, all-purpose flour, brown sugar, and salt. Mix this together so everything is well blended. Then, add the cold butter pieces. Using your fingers or a pastry cutter, work the butter into the dry mixture until it looks like coarse crumbs. This will give you that amazing, crunchy topping!
5. Assemble the Crisp:
Now, sprinkle the oat topping evenly over the apple mixture in the baking dish. Don’t be shy; make sure it covers all the apples so that every bite has that delicious crunch!
6. Bake to Perfection:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 40 to 45 minutes. You want the topping to be golden brown and the apples to be tender and bubbling. The smell will be irresistible!
7. Cool and Serve:
After baking, take the crisp out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This will help it set up just right. Serve warm, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top if you like. Enjoy every delightful spoonful of your Bourbon Apple Crisp!
Now, gather your loved ones and enjoy this warm and comforting dessert together. It’s too good to keep for yourself!
Can I Use Different Types of Apples?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are great choices for their balance of sweetness and tartness, you can also use Fuji, Gala, or even a mix of your favorites for a unique flavor.
Can I Make This Without Bourbon?
Of course! If you prefer to omit bourbon, try using extra vanilla extract or almond extract for extra flavor. You can also add a splash of apple cider for a non-alcoholic twist!
How Should 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 microwave or bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Can I Freeze Bourbon Apple Crisp?
Yes! To freeze, let it cool completely, then wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. To enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.
