This warm maple pecan apple crisp is like a cozy hug in a bowl! It features sweet apples topped with a crunchy mix of oats, pecans, and a drizzle of maple syrup. Yum!
You can’t go wrong with this treat! I absolutely love how easy it is to make. Just toss everything in a dish, bake it, and enjoy that crunchy goodness. Perfect with ice cream on top!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: A mix of Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, and Gala gives a nice balance of tartness and sweetness. If you can’t find these, feel free to use any firm apples you enjoy, like Fuji or Braeburn.
Maple Syrup: Pure maple syrup adds great flavor. If you need a substitute, consider using agave syrup for a similar sweetness but different taste, or honey if you don’t mind the flavor.
Pecans: They add a delightful crunch! If you’re allergic or want a change, walnuts or almonds can be great substitutes. I often use chopped walnuts for a different twist!
Butter: Unsalted butter is ideal for this recipe. If you need a dairy-free option, use coconut oil or a vegan butter spread. Just melt it as you would regular butter.
How Do I Ensure My Topping Stays Crispy?
Getting that perfect crunchy topping is key to a delightful crisp! Here’s how:
- Mix the topping until it’s crumbly but not too wet. You want all the dry ingredients to be coated with butter.
- Don’t skip the pecans! They add a great texture and flavor that balances the softness of the apples.
- Make sure to sprinkle the topping evenly over the apples. This helps it cook thoroughly and turn golden.
- Let the crisp cool slightly after baking. This helps the topping set a bit without losing its crunch.
With these tips, you’ll have a scrumptious Maple Pecan Apple Crisp to enjoy warm or with a scoop of ice cream!
How to Make Maple Pecan Apple Crisp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Apple Filling:
- 6 cups apples, peeled, cored, and sliced (use a mix like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, and Gala)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For The Crisp Topping:
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for topping)
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup pecan halves or chopped pecans
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Maple Pecan Apple Crisp will take about 15 minutes to prepare and then around 40-45 minutes to bake. Overall, you can expect it to be ready in about 1 hour, perfect for a cozy dessert!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your apple crisp bakes evenly and gets that lovely golden color. While the oven warms up, you can prepare the dish.
2. Prepare the Apples:
In a large bowl, toss the sliced apples with lemon juice, 1/4 cup of the maple syrup, 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir until the apples are nicely coated in the mixture. Then, spread the apple mixture evenly in a lightly greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
3. Mix the Crisp Topping:
In another bowl, combine the oats, flour, brown sugar, 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon, and melted butter. Mix this gently until the mixture becomes crumbly, and the butter is evenly distributed. You’re creating that yummy crispy texture!
4. Add the Pecans:
Fold the pecans into the oat mixture. This will add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor to your topping.
5. Assemble the Crisp:
Now, sprinkle your oat and pecan topping generously over the apple layer in the baking dish. Drizzle the remaining 1/4 cup of maple syrup over the topping to help it caramelize and add sweetness while it bakes.
6. Bake to Perfection:
Place the dish in the 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 and tender. The delightful smell is a nice bonus!
7. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the crisp from the oven and let it cool slightly. This helps the flavors meld together. Serve warm as a satisfying treat on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream if you’re feeling indulgent!
Enjoy your delightful Maple Pecan Apple Crisp! It’s sure to be a hit with family and friends.
Can I Use Different Types of Apples?
Absolutely! A mix of apples adds flavor and texture, but feel free to use any firm apples you enjoy. Some great alternatives include Fuji, Braeburn, or even Cortland apples.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make this crisp gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure your oats are labeled gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy a delicious dessert!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm it up in the oven for a few minutes at 350°F until heated through.
Can I Freeze Maple Pecan Apple Crisp?
Yes, you can freeze the crisp! Make sure it cools completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or store it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To serve, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven.
