We’ve always been huge fans of apple crisp—it’s that cozy dessert evoking crisp autumn days and family gatherings. In our Apple Crisp Recipe With Granola, we’re adding a fun twist to the traditional favorite by swapping in crunchy granola for extra texture and a nutritious boost.
This simple recipe combines tender baked apples with a golden topping that’s quick to prepare. Whether you’re hosting a fall feast or craving a sweet treat, it’s sure to become a go-to in your kitchen.
Ingredients
In our Apple Crisp Recipe With Granola, we focus on fresh, wholesome ingredients that blend perfectly to create a crunchy, nutritious topping over tender baked apples. This section outlines everything you’ll need, organized by preparation stage for ease of use.
For the Apple Filling
- 4 medium apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced – we recommend about 1/4-inch slices for even baking)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (to enhance the natural sweetness of the apples)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for that warm, spicy aroma that ties the flavors together)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed, to prevent browning and add a subtle tang)
For the Granola Topping
- 2 cups granola (store-bought or homemade, lightly crushed for better texture integration – opt for varieties with nuts and oats for added crunch)
- 1/2 cup rolled oats (old-fashioned, not quick-cooking, to maintain a hearty bite)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (packed, to provide a rich, caramel-like depth)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted, to bind the topping and ensure it bakes to golden perfection)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (to balance the sweetness and enhance overall flavor)
This combination yields approximately 6-8 servings, making it perfect for family gatherings. For nutritional insight, here’s a quick overview based on standard values per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 350 | 18% |
| Total Fat | 15g | 19% |
| Carbohydrates | 50g | 18% |
| Protein | 4g | 8% |
| Fiber | 5g | 18% |
*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Values may vary depending on specific ingredient brands.
Required Tools and Equipment
To prepare our apple crisp with granola, we gather a few essential tools that ensure smooth preparation and perfect results. These items help us handle the slicing of apples, mixing of the granola topping, and baking to achieve that golden, crunchy finish.
Here is a detailed list of the required tools, organized by their primary use in the recipe:
- Baking Dish: A 9×13 inch glass or metal dish for evenly baking the apple filling and granola topping; it allows for a crisp exterior while keeping the apples tender.
- Peeler: A sturdy vegetable peeler to quickly remove skins from fresh apples, ensuring they bake smoothly without tough textures.
- Cutting Board and Chef’s Knife: A large cutting board paired with a sharp chef’s knife for safely slicing apples into uniform pieces, which promotes even cooking.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: A set of standard measuring cups and spoons for accurately portioning ingredients like sugar, cinnamon, and granola, guaranteeing the recipe’s balance of flavors.
- Mixing Bowls: At least two medium-sized mixing bowls—one for combining the apple filling and another for the granola topping—to keep our workspace organized and prevent cross-contamination.
- Whisk or Wooden Spoon: A whisk for blending dry ingredients or a wooden spoon for stirring the topping mixture, helping us achieve a uniform, crumbly texture.
- Oven Mitts: Heat-resistant oven mitts to safely handle the hot baking dish when removing it from the oven, protecting us during the final steps.
In our experience, having these tools ready streamlines the process and enhances safety, making this apple crisp recipe even more enjoyable to create.
Instructions
Now that we have our ingredients and tools ready, let’s guide you through creating our irresistible Apple Crisp Recipe With Granola. We’ll walk you through each step to ensure a flavorful, crunchy dessert that’s simple yet impressive.
Prepare the Apples
First, we peel and core 6 medium apples—such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp—using our sturdy peeler and knife. This step ensures tender, flavorful apples that form the heart of our apple crisp. Slice them into 1/4-inch thick pieces on the cutting board, then transfer to a large mixing bowl.
Next, we add 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, and a pinch of salt to the sliced apples. Toss everything together with a wooden spoon until the apples are evenly coated, releasing a vibrant, tangy aroma that promises a perfectly balanced filling.
Make the Topping With Granola
In a separate mixing bowl, we combine 2 cups of granola for that signature crunchy texture, 1 cup of rolled oats, 1/2 cup of brown sugar, 1/2 cup of melted butter, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Use a whisk or wooden spoon to mix until the ingredients form a crumbly, golden mixture—envision the butter binding everything for a topping that’s irresistibly crisp and nutty.
Assemble the Crisp
Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with a bit of butter or cooking spray. We spread the prepared apples evenly across the bottom of the dish, creating a juicy base layer. Then, we sprinkle the granola topping generously over the apples, pressing it lightly to help it adhere and ensure every bite delivers a harmonious blend of tender apples and crunchy granola.
Bake the Apple Crisp
Preheat our oven to 350°F. We place the assembled dish in the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the topping turns a deep golden brown and the apples bubble enticingly around the edges—filling the kitchen with the warm, comforting scent of cinnamon and baked apples. Once done, remove the dish using oven mitts and let it cool slightly before serving.
Make-Ahead Instructions
One of the beauties of our apple crisp recipe with granola is its flexibility for busy schedules—we can prepare components in advance to save time while preserving that fresh-baked flavor and texture. This approach lets us focus on enjoying the warm, cinnamon-spiced apples and crunchy granola topping without last-minute rush. Below, we break down the steps for making ahead, including storage and reheating tips.
Preparing the Apple Filling Ahead
To get a head start, we begin with the apple filling, which holds up well when made in advance:
- Peel, core, and slice the apples as outlined in our step-by-step instructions, then mix them with granulated sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and salt.
- Transfer the mixture to an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag, ensuring the apples are evenly coated to prevent browning.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours or freeze for up to 3 months. If freezing, lay the mixture flat for quick thawing.
Preparing the Granola Topping Ahead
The granola topping is straightforward to assemble early and maintains its crisp texture with proper storage:
- Combine granola, rolled oats, brown sugar, melted butter, and salt until crumbly, as per the recipe.
- Spread the mixture on a baking sheet to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container.
- Refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 1 month. For the best results, avoid compacting the topping to keep it light and crumbly.
Storage and Reheating Guidelines
For optimal freshness, we recommend the following storage times and methods—use this table to reference key details at a glance:
| Component | Storage Method | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apple Filling | Refrigerator | Up to 24 hours | Keep chilled to maintain texture; stir before using. |
| Apple Filling | Freezer | Up to 3 months | Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before assembling. |
| Granola Topping | Refrigerator | Up to 3 days | Re-crisp in the oven at 350°F for 5 minutes if needed. |
| Granola Topping | Freezer | Up to 1 month | Thaw at room temperature and break up any clumps. |
| Fully Assembled Dish | Refrigerator | Up to 24 hours | Cover tightly; bake directly from cold, adding 5-10 minutes to bake time. |
Assembling and Baking from Make-Ahead Prep
- If the apple filling was refrigerated, give it a quick stir to redistribute flavors.
- Spread the filling in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, then sprinkle the granola topping evenly over it.
- Bake at 350°F for 40-45 minutes, or until the topping is golden and the apples are tender. For dishes made from frozen components, add 10 minutes to the bake time and monitor closely.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving to let the aromas of baked apples and toasted granola shine through, delivering that irresistible, comforting dessert experience.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing this apple crisp recipe with granola, blending classic comfort with a nutritious edge.
It’s a go-to for cozy evenings or fall feasts, delivering that perfect crunch and warmth.
We know you’ll savor every bite and make it a staple in your kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is granola apple crisp?
Granola apple crisp is a tasty twist on the classic dessert, featuring tender baked apples topped with a crunchy granola mixture for added texture and nutrition. It’s simple to make and perfect for fall gatherings or a cozy treat at home.
What ingredients are needed for granola apple crisp?
You’ll need fresh apples, granulated sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and salt for the filling, plus granola, rolled oats, brown sugar, butter, and salt for the topping. This combination creates a flavorful, wholesome dessert yielding 6-8 servings.
How do I make granola apple crisp?
Start by peeling, coring, and slicing apples, then mix with sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and salt. For the topping, combine granola, oats, brown sugar, melted butter, and salt until crumbly. Spread apples in a greased baking dish, add topping, and bake at 350°F for 40-45 minutes until golden.
What tools are required to prepare granola apple crisp?
You’ll need a 9×13 inch baking dish for even baking, a peeler for apples, a cutting board and knife for slicing, measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, mixing bowls for prep, a whisk or spoon for mixing, and oven mitts for safe handling.
Can I make granola apple crisp ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the apple filling up to 24 hours in advance and store in the fridge, or freeze for up to 3 months. The granola topping can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for a month. Assemble and bake when ready for a fresh dessert.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This granola apple crisp recipe yields about 6-8 servings, making it ideal for family dinners or small gatherings. Each serving offers a balanced mix of sweet apples and crunchy topping.
What are the nutritional facts for granola apple crisp?
Each serving has approximately 350 calories, 15g of total fat, and 5g of fiber, providing a nutritious dessert option with natural sweetness from apples and added benefits from granola and oats. Always adjust based on your ingredients.