There’s something magical about the smell of apples baking in the oven—warm cinnamon, brown sugar, and butter filling the kitchen with cozy comfort. This Pioneer Woman Apple Crisp recipe is a timeless dessert that’s as easy as it is delicious. With a golden oatmeal topping and tender baked apples, it’s the kind of recipe that makes any day feel special. Perfect for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or just a sweet treat on a crisp fall evening.
Recipe info
| Category | Dessert |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 45 minutes |
| Servings | 6 |
| Calories | ~310 per serving |
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 6 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and sliced
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
- Optional: vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for serving
Step-By-Step Instructions
- Prep the apples
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Peel, core, and slice the apples, then toss them with lemon juice, ½ cup granulated sugar, and ½ teaspoon cinnamon. Spread evenly in a buttered 9×13-inch baking dish. - Make the crisp topping
In a mixing bowl, combine oats, flour, brown sugar, remaining cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingertips until the mixture is crumbly. - Assemble the crisp
Sprinkle the oat mixture evenly over the apples, covering them completely. - Bake until golden
Place in the preheated oven and bake for about 40–45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are bubbling. - Serve warm
Let cool slightly, then serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for the ultimate cozy dessert.
Helpful Notes & Tips
- Apple choice: Granny Smith gives a tart bite, while Honeycrisp adds extra sweetness—try a mix for the best balance.
- Make ahead: Assemble and refrigerate up to 1 day in advance. Bake just before serving.
- Storage: Keep leftovers covered at room temperature for 1 day, or refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven to keep the topping crisp.
Recipe Variations
- Apple Crisp for Two: Halve the recipe and bake in a smaller 8×8-inch dish. Perfect for a date night or small household.
- Apple Crisp Made with Honey: Replace half of the brown sugar with honey for a natural sweetness.
- Apple Crisp Baked Apples: Hollow out large apples, stuff them with the oat mixture, and bake for a fun, individual dessert.
Serving Suggestions
- Top with vanilla ice cream, caramel drizzle, or whipped cream.
- Pair with a warm drink like spiced cider, herbal tea, or a fruit spritzer for a cozy finishing touch.
- Serve alongside roasted chicken or a hearty soup for a balanced fall dinner with dessert built in.
Conclusion
This Pioneer Woman Apple Crisp recipe is the definition of comfort food—simple ingredients, easy steps, and a dessert that feels like home. Whether you’re baking it for your family, sharing it with friends, or enjoying a quiet night in, every bite is warm, sweet, and full of love.