Easy Apple Crisp with Oat Topping

There’s nothing quite like the warm, cinnamon-kissed aroma of an apple crisp bubbling away in the oven. This Easy Apple Crisp with Oat Topping is absolutely dreamy—think tender, syrupy apples nestled under a golden layer of buttery oats and brown sugar.

It’s the ultimate no-fuss dessert: simple ingredients, minimal prep, and a wildly delicious result. Whether you need an effortless weeknight treat or something nostalgic for your next family gathering, this classic recipe never disappoints.

Growing up, this was always the dessert my mom made “just because.” Now, I make it whenever I’m craving pure, old-fashioned comfort. One bite and you’ll see why it’s a must-try!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Super simple to make with pantry staples—no fancy equipment needed!
• Irresistible flavor from tender apples, warm spices, and crunchy oat topping
• Perfect for any occasion, from weeknight desserts to cozy holiday gatherings
• Naturally egg-free and easy to adapt for gluten-free or vegan diets

Key Ingredients for Easy Apple Crisp with Oat Topping

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Apples

Apples create the juicy, sweet-tart base for this crisp. Choose firm, baking varieties like Granny Smith for a tangy kick, or Honeycrisp and Fuji for extra sweetness. Slice them evenly for even cooking. You can peel the apples for a softer filling, but leaving the skins on adds rustic texture and nutrients.

Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats

Oats give the crisp its signature crunchy topping. Rolled oats are best because they hold their texture and crisp up perfectly. Quick oats work in a pinch, but avoid instant oats—they get mushy. Need gluten-free? Just use certified gluten-free oats!

Brown Sugar

Brown sugar adds deep, caramelized sweetness to both the apple filling and the oat topping. Light or dark brown sugar both work. In a pinch, you can swap in all granulated sugar, but you’ll lose some of that warm molasses flavor.

Cinnamon

Cinnamon is the heart of the autumnal spice in this recipe. Don’t skimp! Feel free to add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for more complexity.

Butter

Butter is what makes the oat topping so crisp and golden. Use cold, diced unsalted butter so you can cut it evenly into the oats. For a vegan version, swap for a firm vegan butter or coconut oil (be aware this gives the topping a hint of coconut flavor).

Instructions for Easy Apple Crisp with Oat Topping

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Prep Your Apples

Start by prepping your apples: peel (if you like), core, and slice them evenly—about 1/2-inch thick. Toss them right in your baking dish with lemon juice, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir until the apple slices are evenly coated and spread them in an even layer.

Make the Oat Topping

In a separate bowl, combine rolled oats, flour, brown sugar, and salt. Add in your cold, cubed butter. Using a pastry cutter, fork, or even your fingers, work the butter into the dry ingredients until the texture is crumbly with some pea-sized pieces remaining. If using, stir in chopped nuts for extra crunch.

Assemble the Crisp

Scatter the oat topping evenly over the apples, making sure there are no big bare patches (a thick layer is what you want!). Press it lightly with your hands so it stays together while baking.

Bake to Golden, Bubbly Perfection

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35-40 minutes, or until the topping is deeply golden and the apples are fork-tender and bubbling around the edges. If needed, add a sheet of foil halfway through to prevent over-browning.

Serve and Enjoy!

Let the apple crisp cool for at least 10 minutes so it sets up a bit. Scoop into bowls and serve warm with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for the full comfort food experience.

Recipe Variations

Gluten-Free Apple Crisp

To make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour in the topping with your favorite gluten-free blend or almond flour, and be sure to use certified gluten-free oats. The crisp will be just as golden and delicious.

Vegan Option

Swap the butter for a vegan butter substitute or use solid coconut oil. Both work beautifully and still give you a delightfully crunchy topping—just note coconut oil will add a mild coconut flavor.

Change Up the Spices

For a different twist, try adding a pinch of cardamom, ground ginger, or clove to the filling or topping. This can really bring out the cozy, fall flavors and lets you play with your favorite spice combinations.

Add Berries or Pears

Mix in a cup of fresh or frozen berries (like blueberries or blackberries) or swap some of the apples for sliced pears. This adds another layer of flavor and juiciness to the crisp.

Make It Nutty

Add 1/2 cup chopped toasted walnuts, pecans, or almonds to the oat topping for extra crunch and flavor. It’s a simple upgrade that brings lovely texture!

Serving Suggestions

For the ultimate apple crisp experience, top each warm serving with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream or a big dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream. Pair with a hot cup of coffee or chai for a dreamy dessert. Want to round out your meal? Serve alongside pork tenderloin or roasted chicken for the perfect balance of savory and sweet!

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftover apple crisp covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply pop a portion in the microwave for about 45 seconds or warm the entire dish in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–15 minutes until heated through and the topping crisps up again. For longer storage, you can freeze baked and cooled crisp for up to 3 months—reheat straight from the freezer or thaw overnight before warming.

Frequently Asked Questions About Easy Apple Crisp with Oat Topping (FAQ)

Q: What are the best apples to use for apple crisp?
A: Firm, tart-sweet apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Braeburn hold their shape and provide balanced flavor in your crisp.

Q: Can I make this apple crisp ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! Assemble the crisp up to one day ahead and refrigerate unbaked, then bake just before serving. You can also bake, cool, and reheat when ready to enjoy.

Q: My topping isn’t crisp—what happened?
A: Make sure your butter is cold and work it into the oats until crumbly. Also, avoid over-mixing. If the topping isn’t browning enough, bake a few extra minutes uncovered.

This Easy Apple Crisp with Oat Topping is the comfort dessert you’ll crave again and again—simple, homey, and irresistibly delicious! Give it a try, and let me know how it turns out by leaving a comment or rating below. Happy baking!