If you’re looking for a cozy dessert that perfectly balances tart cranberries with sweet, tender apples, this Apple Cranberry Crisp Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a warm, comforting treat featuring a delightful buttery oat topping layered over juicy fruit filled with cinnamon and nutmeg. Whether you’re serving it up for a family gathering or just treating yourself on a brisk evening, this crisp offers a crave-worthy mix of textures and flavors that simply can’t be beat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and how each ingredient plays a special role in building the perfect crisp. From the tart cranberries that add a pop of color and zing, to the spices that infuse warmth, every item on the list works together to create that signature fall-inspired taste.
- 4 large apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp): Peeled, cored, and sliced for a balance of tartness and sweetness.
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries: Provide a vibrant color and a fresh-tart bite.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness that complements the fruit’s natural tartness.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Keeps the apples from browning and brightens the flavors.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Infuses warmth and a classic spice note.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds a subtle nutty spice for extra depth.
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch: Helps thicken the fruit juices as it bakes.
- 3/4 cup old-fashioned rolled oats: Creates a hearty and chewy topping texture.
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: Provides structure to the crisp topping.
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar: Adds rich molasses undertones and caramelization.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: For added warmth within the topping.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the sweet and spicy flavors.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes: Binds the topping by creating little pockets of richness.
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional): Introduces a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor.
How to Make Apple Cranberry Crisp Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or a similarly sized pan. This initial step sets the stage to ensure your crisp bakes evenly without sticking.
Step 2: Combine the Fruit Filling
In a large bowl, toss together the sliced apples, cranberries, sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cornstarch. This mixture not only combines flavors but the cornstarch thickens the juices released during baking, so your crisp isn’t watery.
Step 3: Create the Oat Topping
In another bowl, stir together the oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This crumbly mixture will bake into a golden, buttery topping that adds incredible texture.
Step 4: Add Nuts and Assemble
Mix in the chopped nuts if you’re using them, then sprinkle the oat topping evenly over the fruit mixture in the baking dish. This layering ensures every bite has a perfect balance of fruit and crisp topping.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden
Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. Look for a bubbling fruit filling and a golden brown topping. This visual cue means all those delicious layers are perfectly cooked.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Once out of the oven, let the crisp cool for 10-15 minutes. This pause lets the juices thicken further, making each serving tidy yet irresistibly juicy.
How to Serve Apple Cranberry Crisp Recipe
Garnishes
A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream transforms this crisp into an indulgent dessert experience. For a little extra flair, sprinkling chopped nuts or a light dusting of cinnamon on top adds both texture and eye appeal.
Side Dishes
Apple cranberry crisp pairs wonderfully with a warm cup of coffee or spiced tea, making it a fine treat for both dessert and afternoon snack time. For a brunch setting, it complements savory dishes like bacon or sausage with its sweet and tart contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve individual portions in mason jars for a charming, rustic look that’s perfect for gatherings. Alternatively, layering crisp with Greek yogurt and granola creates a parfait that’s just as delicious as it is pretty.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover the apple cranberry crisp tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days. It’s a great make-ahead dessert that tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld.
Freezing
If you’d like to save some for later, freeze the crisp either before baking or after it has cooled. To freeze before baking, assemble the dish and cover it tightly with foil before freezing for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, bake directly from frozen, adding extra baking time.
Reheating
Warm leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through and the topping crisps back up. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the topping crunchy; the oven method is a game-changer.
FAQs
Can I use different fruits in this Apple Cranberry Crisp Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap or add other fruits like blueberries, pears, or peaches to customize your crisp. Just keep an eye on the sweetness and moisture content to maintain the right texture.
What type of apples work best for this recipe?
Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples are ideal because they hold their shape well and balance sweetness with tartness. Avoid overly soft apples that can turn mushy when baked.
Is it necessary to peel the apples?
Peeling is recommended for texture and to prevent bitterness, but if you prefer a more rustic look and extra fiber, you can leave the skins on. Just wash them thoroughly before slicing.
Can I make the topping gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Also, double-check your oats are certified gluten-free if you’re avoiding gluten completely.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To veganize the crisp, replace the unsalted butter with a plant-based margarine or coconut oil, and ensure your sugar and other ingredients are vegan-friendly. The rest of the ingredients are naturally vegan.
Final Thoughts
This Apple Cranberry Crisp Recipe feels like a warm hug in dessert form — combining seasonal fruits, cozy spices, and a crunchy oat topping that’s simply irresistible. I truly hope you try making it soon and share it with the people you love, because it brings so much joy with every bite! Whether for holiday gatherings or a quiet night in, this crisp is a timeless treat that always delights.
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Apple Cranberry Crisp Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Apple Cranberry Crisp is a delightful, comforting dessert featuring tart cranberries and sweet apples baked under a crunchy oat and brown sugar topping. Perfect for fall or anytime you crave a warm, fruity treat that pairs wonderfully with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
Ingredients
Fruit Filling
- 4 large apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and sliced
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
Oat Topping
- 3/4 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or a pan of similar size to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Mix Fruit Filling: In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, cranberries, granulated sugar, lemon juice, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and cornstarch. Stir well to evenly coat all the fruit with the spices and cornstarch, which will help thicken the filling as it bakes. Transfer this mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Prepare the Oat Topping: In a separate bowl, mix the rolled oats, all-purpose flour, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and salt. Add the cold cubed butter to the bowl. Using a pastry cutter, forks, or your fingertips, cut the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with some pea-sized bits of butter remaining. Stir in the chopped walnuts or pecans if using for added texture and flavor.
- Assemble the Crisp: Evenly sprinkle the oat topping over the fruit filling in the baking dish, making sure the entire surface is covered.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the topping is golden brown and crisp, and the fruit filling is bubbling around the edges.
- Cool and Serve: Let the apple cranberry crisp cool for 10-15 minutes to allow the filling to set slightly. Serve warm, optionally topped with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a rich finishing touch.
Notes
- Use tart apple varieties like Granny Smith or sweet-tart Honeycrisp for the best balance of flavor.
- Frozen cranberries can be used if fresh are unavailable; no need to thaw before mixing.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- To make the topping nut-free, omit the walnuts or pecans.
- Letting the crisp rest helps the filling thicken, preventing it from being runny when served.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
