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If you love apple pie but don’t always have the time to fuss with pie crusts, then Deep Dish Apple Crisp is your answer! This easy-to-make dessert combines tender, juicy apples with a crunchy, buttery topping, creating a warm treat that’s perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in. Served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, it’s sure to impress your family and friends. Plus, the best part? It’s a quick dessert that’s both comforting and crowd-pleasing—ideal for any occasion!
Ingredients and Equipment Needed
Gather these simple ingredients and equipment to make your apple crisp:
Ingredients:
- For the Apple Layer:
- 4 large Granny Smith apples, peeled and sliced
- 1 cup sugar (separate 1/4 cup for cinnamon mixture)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- For the Topping:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (or margarine)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Equipment:
- 8-inch deep dish pie plate (or similar baking dish)
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or spoon for mixing
- Oven
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
Follow these easy steps to create your delicious Deep Dish Apple Crisp:
1. Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking.
2. Prepare the Apples
In a large mixing bowl, combine the peeled and sliced apples with 1 cup of sugar and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Toss the apples gently to coat them evenly with the sugar and spice mixture. This step helps enhance the flavor of the apples, making them sweet and aromatic.
3. Make the Topping
In another bowl, combine the flour and baking soda. In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Slowly incorporate the flour mixture into the wet ingredients until combined. The topping may be thick, which is normal—it should hold its shape but still be scoopable.
4. Assemble the Dish
Spread the apple mixture evenly in your greased deep dish pie plate. Before adding the topping, sprinkle the reserved cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the apples. This adds an extra layer of flavor and sweetness.
5. Add the Topping
Using a large spoon, dollop the topping over the apples. It doesn’t need to cover the apples completely; it will spread out while baking.
6. Bake
Place the pie plate in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crisp. You want the apples to be tender while the topping remains crunchy.
Optional Variations and Creative Additions
Feel free to customize your Deep Dish Apple Crisp with these variations:
- Nutty Crunch: Add 1/2 cup of chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans) to the topping for extra crunch.
- Fruit Blend: Mix in other fruits like blueberries or cranberries for a colorful twist.
- Spiced Up: Experiment with additional spices such as nutmeg or allspice for a more complex flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this dessert suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.
Serving Tips
- Serve Warm: This dessert is best enjoyed warm right out of the oven. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent treat.
- Garnish: A sprinkle of additional cinnamon or a drizzle of caramel sauce can elevate the presentation.
- Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
FAQs for Best Preparation and Storage Practices
1. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the apple layer and topping separately and store them in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, assemble them and follow the baking instructions.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover apple crisp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
3. Can I freeze apple crisp?
Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked crisp for up to three months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking. If baked, it can be frozen, but be aware that the topping may lose some crispness upon reheating.
Conclusion
This Deep Dish Apple Crisp is a delightful dessert that will quickly become a family favorite. Its warm, comforting flavors make it perfect for gatherings, while its no-bake qualities ensure you can whip it up with ease. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll have a delicious dish that’s sure to impress. So go ahead and treat yourself and your loved ones to this classic dessert—enjoy every delicious bite!
