Apple Cranberry Crisp

This Apple Cranberry Crisp is a warm and comforting dessert that combines the tartness of cranberries with the sweetness of tender apples, all topped with a golden, buttery oat crumble. It’s the perfect seasonal treat, especially during fall and winter months, and it can be served on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a wonderful way to enjoy the flavors of the season in a simple, rustic dessert. The combination of apples and cranberries strikes a perfect balance between sweet and tart. The crisp topping is crunchy, buttery, and spiced just right, offering a pleasant contrast to the soft fruit filling beneath. It’s easy to prepare, requires simple ingredients, and makes your kitchen smell amazing while it bakes.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Apples (peeled, cored, and sliced thinly)

• Fresh or frozen cranberries

• Granulated sugar

• Brown sugar

• Ground cinnamon

• Ground nutmeg

• Lemon juice

• All-purpose flour

• Old-fashioned rolled oats

• Unsalted butter (cold and cut into cubes)

• Salt

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced apples, cranberries, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and a small amount of flour. Mix well to coat the fruit evenly.

3. Transfer the fruit mixture into a greased baking dish and spread it out evenly.

4. In a separate bowl, prepare the crisp topping by mixing oats, flour, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt. Add cold, cubed butter and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to incorporate until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

5. Sprinkle the oat topping evenly over the fruit mixture in the baking dish.

6. Bake in the preheated oven for 40–45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the fruit is bubbling around the edges.

7. Allow to cool slightly before serving. Best enjoyed warm.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 6–8 servings.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Variations

• Add nuts: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans into the crisp topping for added crunch and flavor.

• Use different apples: Try a blend of sweet and tart apple varieties such as Honeycrisp and Granny Smith.

• Spice it up: Add cloves or ginger for additional warm spice notes.

• Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free flour and certified gluten-free oats.

• Add orange zest: A touch of orange zest in the filling brightens the flavor and complements the cranberries beautifully.

Storage/reheating

Store any leftover crisp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, warm individual servings in the microwave for 30–60 seconds, or place the entire dish in a 325°F (160°C) oven for 10–15 minutes until heated through.
You can also freeze the crisp before baking by assembling it in a freezer-safe dish, covering tightly, and freezing for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding 10–15 extra minutes to the baking time.

FAQs

How do I prevent the topping from getting soggy?

Ensure the topping ingredients are well combined and use cold butter. Baking until golden and bubbly also helps keep the topping crisp.

Can I use canned cranberry sauce instead of fresh cranberries?

No, canned cranberry sauce will alter the texture and sweetness. Fresh or frozen whole cranberries are best for this recipe.

What are the best apples to use?

Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn are excellent choices due to their firmness and balanced sweetness.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the crisp and refrigerate up to one day in advance. Bake just before serving for best results.

How do I know when the crisp is done baking?

The topping should be golden brown, and the fruit should be bubbling around the edges.

Is it necessary to peel the apples?

Peeling is recommended for a softer texture, but it’s optional if you prefer more fiber or a rustic feel.

Can I make this without oats?

Yes, substitute the oats with additional flour and nuts to create a similar crumble topping.

Can I reduce the sugar?

Yes, you can reduce the sugar to your taste, but be cautious if your cranberries are very tart.

How do I make it vegan?

Use plant-based butter in the topping to make this dessert completely vegan.

Can I use dried cranberries?

Dried cranberries are not recommended as they lack the tartness and moisture fresh cranberries provide.

Conclusion

Apple Cranberry Crisp is a delightful dessert that brings together the best of both fruits in a single dish. Its warm, spiced filling and crisp topping make it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you serve it for a holiday gathering or a cozy night in, this crisp is sure to satisfy. Enjoy it warm with your favorite topping and savor every bite.