This Maple Walnut Apple Crisp is a cozy dessert filled with warm, spiced apples and crunchy walnuts. Topped with a sweet and buttery oat mixture, it’s simply delightful!
Baking fills the house with the best smells; it’s like a hug from the oven! I love serving it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream—it’s the perfect treat for chilly days! 🍏🍂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: Granny Smith apples are great for their tartness, balancing the sweetness of the maple syrup. You can mix them with sweeter apples like Fuji or Honeycrisp for a more complex flavor. If you’re low on apples, pears can be a delicious substitute!
Maple Syrup: Pure maple syrup adds a lovely depth of flavor. However, if you’re out, honey or agave nectar can work in a pinch, though they will change the taste slightly. Just use a bit less since they’re sweeter.
Walnuts: These add crunch and a nice earthy flavor. If you’re not a fan of walnuts or have allergies, pecans or almonds can be good substitutes. Just chop them roughly before adding!
Rolled Oats: I love using old-fashioned oats for texture. If you need a gluten-free option, swap in gluten-free oats, which are widely available now.
How Can I Make Sure My Crisp Has a Perfect Topping?
Getting that delicious, crumbly topping just right can be tricky! Here’s how to nail it:
- Mix the oats, nuts, flour, and salt thoroughly before combining with the butter and syrup. This helps distribute everything evenly.
- When adding melted butter, pour it slowly while mixing to ensure all ingredients get coated. You want a crumbly texture, not a paste.
- If the mixture seems too dry, add a splash of water or a bit more melted butter until it clumps together nicely.
- Spread the topping evenly over the apple mixture before baking. This helps it crisp up nicely as it bakes.
With these tips, you’ll have a delightful apple crisp every time! Enjoy baking!
Maple Walnut Apple Crisp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 5 cups peeled, cored, and sliced apples (Granny Smith or a mix of tart and sweet apples)
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1/3 cup pure maple syrup (divided)
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
For the Topping:
- 3/4 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/2 cup walnuts, roughly chopped
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
Optional:
- Vanilla ice cream, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Maple Walnut Apple Crisp will take about 15 minutes to prepare and around 40-45 minutes to bake. You’ll be enjoying a warm, comforting dessert in less than an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab your 8×8-inch baking dish and lightly grease it with butter or a little cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Toss the Apples:
In a large bowl, take your sliced apples and drizzle them with fresh lemon juice. This helps keep the apples from browning. Add in half of the maple syrup (about 3 tablespoons), along with the cinnamon, nutmeg, and cornstarch. Toss everything gently until the apples are evenly coated. Yum!
3. Spread the Apple Mixture:
Transfer the apple mixture to your greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. This will ensure every bite is deliciously sweet!
4. Make the Topping:
In another bowl, combine rolled oats, chopped walnuts, flour, and salt. These will give a crunchy texture to the topping. Mix them well!
5. Add Butter and Maple:
Pour in the melted butter and the remaining maple syrup (the other 3 tablespoons) to the dry mixture. Stir everything together until it forms a crumbly texture—this is what you’ll sprinkle on top!
6. Top the Apples:
Take your oat and walnut topping and sprinkle it evenly over the apple filling. Cover all the apples so they become all warm and cozy in the oven!
7. Bake It:
Pop your dish into the preheated oven and bake for about 40-45 minutes. You want the topping to be golden brown, and the apples to bubble up. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
8. Cool and Serve:
Once it’s baked, take it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This will help everything set a bit. Serve warm and don’t forget to add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top if you like!
Enjoy your cozy and flavorful Maple Walnut Apple Crisp! 🍏🍂
Can I Use Frozen Apples for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen apples, but make sure to thaw and drain them beforehand to avoid excess moisture. Pat them dry with paper towels before mixing in with the other ingredients!
What Can I Substitute for Walnuts?
If you’re allergic to walnuts or simply don’t have them, you can substitute with pecans or almonds. Both options will still give a lovely crunch and flavor to your crisp!
Can I Make This Crispy Topping Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! Just swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure your oats are certified gluten-free as some may contain traces of gluten.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or in the microwave for a quick treat!
