This Maple Walnut Apple Crisp is a warm hug in a bowl! It features sweet apples topped with crunchy walnuts and a touch of maple syrup—yummy and comforting!
I love how easy it is to whip up this dessert! Just toss the apples, sprinkle the crumble on top, and let the oven do its thing. It’s like autumn on a plate! 🍏🍂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples are great choices for their tartness and firmness. If you want a sweeter flavor, consider Fuji or Gala apples. Mixing different varieties adds depth!
Maple Syrup: Pure maple syrup is a key flavor, but you can use honey or agave syrup as a substitute if needed. Keep in mind that these might alter the taste slightly, so adjust the sweetness to your liking.
Walnuts: Chopped walnuts provide crunch and nuttiness, but feel free to replace them with pecans or almonds if you prefer! For nut-free options, sunflower seeds or oats can work too.
Oats: Old-fashioned rolled oats offer the best texture. If you have quick oats, they can be used, but the topping might be a bit softer. Gluten-free oats are available if needed for dietary restrictions!
How Do You Get the Apples Just Right?
The key to perfect apples in this crisp is to slice them evenly and choose the right variety. Here’s how to ensure they’re tender and flavorful:
- Peel and slice your apples into uniform pieces. This helps them cook evenly.
- Mixing lemon juice with the apples not only adds a zing but also prevents browning!
- Tossing the apples with sugar and spices before baking enhances their flavor as they release juices during cooking.
How to Make Maple Walnut Apple Crisp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Filling:
- 6 cups peeled and sliced apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup, divided
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For The Topping:
- 3/4 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
For Serving:
- Vanilla ice cream (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Maple Walnut Apple Crisp takes about 15 minutes to prepare and needs about 40-45 minutes to bake. It’s perfect for a cozy dessert any time of the year, especially during the autumn! Plus, a little waiting for it to cool makes it perfect for serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take a moment to grease a 9×9-inch baking dish lightly to prevent sticking. You want it to come out nice and easy once it’s baked!
2. Mix the Apple Filling:
In a large bowl, toss the sliced apples with the lemon juice, 1/4 cup of maple syrup, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Make sure everything is mixed well. Then, pour this delicious apple mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Smell that? It’s going to be good!
3. Prepare the Topping:
In another bowl, combine the old-fashioned rolled oats, flour, chopped walnuts, and the melted butter. Pour in the remaining 1/4 cup of maple syrup and stir everything together until you have a crumbly mixture. This is what will create that lovely crisp topping!
4. Assemble the Crisp:
Now it’s time to sprinkle the oat and walnut topping evenly over the apples. Make sure to cover them well, so every bite is filled with that crunchy goodness!
5. Bake to Perfection:
Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for about 40-45 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the topping is golden brown and the apples are bubbling away. The smell will drive you wild!
6. Cool and Serve:
Once out of the oven, let the crisp cool slightly before serving. This makes it easier to scoop. Serve it warm, and if you’re feeling indulgent, top it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat!
7. Enjoy!
Sit back, take a spoonful, and enjoy the warm flavors of your Maple Walnut Apple Crisp. Every bite is comforting and delicious!
Can I Use Different Types of Apples?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are great choices, you can also use Fuji, Gala, or even a mix of your favorites. A variety of apples brings different flavors and textures to the dish!
What If I Don’t Have Maple Syrup?
No problem! You can substitute with honey or agave syrup. Just keep in mind that these alternatives may slightly alter the sweetness and flavor, so adjust as needed to suit your taste.
Can I Make This Crisp Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the apple filling and crumble topping separately, then assemble and bake it just before serving. If made in advance, store it covered in the fridge and bake when ready to enjoy.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover apple crisp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave when you’re ready for another serving. It tastes delicious even warmed up!
