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This Apple Crisp is a twist on the traditional apple pie and takes half the time and effort. And that topping?? To die for! This will satisfy the need for the obligatory apple dessert on the Thanksgiving menu but might also appeal to all of those non-apple-pie-lovers.
There’s something undeniably comforting about the aroma of apples, cinnamon, and butter wafting through the kitchen. Ina Garten’s Old-Fashioned Apple Crisp encapsulates this warmth, offering a dessert that’s both simple and indulgent.
What sets this recipe apart is the delightful twist of citrus—fresh orange and lemon zest and juice—that brightens the traditional apple filling. Topped with a buttery oat crumble, it’s a harmonious blend of sweet and tart, soft and crunchy.
Whether you’re gathering with family for the holidays or seeking a comforting treat on a chilly evening, this apple crisp is a timeless choice that brings people together.
Why You’ll Fall in Love With It
Fuss-free: No pie crust to roll out or complicated steps—just peel, mix, and bake.
Make-ahead friendly: You can prep everything ahead and bake it off when guests arrive.
Pairs perfectly with ice cream: Because let’s be honest… warm apple crisp + cold vanilla ice cream = instant mood-lifter.
Check out this video to watch me make the recipe!
Step 1 – Preheat the Oven
Heat oven to 350 degrees. Butter a 9 x 13-in casserole dish.
Step 2 – Peel and Chop the Apples
Peel and cut the apples. I used an apple slicer first, and then for the final chop, I used my fruit/veggie chopper. I love that the chopper is safe and easy for kids to use and it gets the job done in a fraction of the time!
Step 3 – Prepare the Filling
For the filling, combine sliced apples with orange and lemon zest, orange and lemon juice, sugar, and spices. I used a microplane zester and a citrus squeezer. They’re inexpensive, effective, and quick, and are a must-have in everyone’s gadget drawer.
Step 4 – Prepare the Topping
For the topping, combine flour, sugars, salt, oatmeal and cold butter. Cut in the butter until well incorporated. Topping should be crumbly. Add in 3/4 cup of chopped pecans for some extra crunch.
Step 5 – Bake
Pour the apple filling into a 9×13 casserole dish and scatter the topping over the apples. Bake uncovered for 60 minutes.
Step 6 – Serve (Hopefully With Ice Cream)
Let it set and serve it with a gigantic scoop of vanilla ice cream and a silent thank you to Ina.
Are you interested in other Thanksgiving recipes or need ideas? If so, I created a complete guide on hosting a Friendsgiving / Thanksgiving dinner party. Download it below!
This comforting apple crisp is a delightful twist on the traditional apple pie, offering all the cozy flavors with half the effort.Featuring a sweet and spiced apple filling topped with a buttery oat crumble, it’s a perfect dessert for any occasion.This recipe is adapted from Ina Garten’s beloved version, with an added touch of chopped pecans for extra crunch.
Ingredients
For the Filling:
4 lbs apples (such as McIntosh or Macoun), peeled and sliced
Grated zest of 1 orange
Grated zest of 1 lemon
2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
For the Topping:
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 cup granulated sugar
3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1 cup old-fashioned oats
1 cup (2 sticks) cold unsalted butter, diced
3/4 cup chopped pecans
Instructions
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Butter a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples with the orange and lemon zests, orange and lemon juices, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix well to coat the apples evenly.
Make the Topping: In another bowl, mix together the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, salt, and oats. Add the diced cold butter and mix until the mixture is crumbly and the butter is the size of peas. Stir in the chopped pecans.
Assemble the Crisp: Pour the apple mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the topping evenly over the apples.
Bake: Bake uncovered for about 1 hour, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are bubbly.
Serve: Allow the crisp to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm, ideally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
