This Maple Walnut Apple Crisp is a warm and cozy dessert that combines tender apples with a crunchy topping of walnuts and oats. It is sweetened with maple syrup for a lovely flavor!
There’s something about that golden, crispy topping that makes it hard to stop at just one bite. I usually serve it warm with a scoop of ice cream on top—so delightful!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are top choices for their balance of tartness and sweetness. If those aren’t available, feel free to use Fuji or Braeburn apples. A mix of different apples adds great flavor!
Maple Syrup: Pure maple syrup gives a deep flavor that pairs perfectly with apples. If you need a substitute, you could use honey or agave syrup, but the taste will differ a bit.
Walnuts: Chopped walnuts add crunch and richness. If you prefer, pecans or slivered almonds make great substitutes. Just be mindful of nut allergies!
Butter: Unsalted butter is my go-to for this recipe, as it lets the flavors shine. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, coconut oil or a plant-based butter will also work well.
How Do I Ensure the Crisp Topping is Perfectly Crunchy?
Getting that crispy topping right can be a challenge, but it’s all about texture! Here’s how to do it:
- Make sure the butter is cold. This helps create a light, crumbly mixture when you incorporate it with the dry ingredients.
- Don’t overmix the topping. Just work the butter in until everything is combined but still crumbly—this prevents it from becoming dense.
- Spread the topping evenly over the apple filling. This helps it cook consistently and become golden and crispy.
If you notice the topping is browning too fast, simply cover it loosely with foil for the last few minutes of baking.
Maple Walnut Apple Crisp
Ingredients:
For the Apple Filling:
- 5 cups peeled and sliced apples (about 5 medium apples; Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, to thicken apple filling)
For the Crisp Topping:
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for topping)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (for topping)
- 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold and diced
For Serving:
- Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Maple Walnut Apple Crisp takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then another 40-45 minutes to bake. You’ll have a scrumptious dessert ready in under an hour—and your kitchen will smell amazing!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish or a similar size with a little butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Apple Filling:
In a large bowl, combine your sliced apples with fresh lemon juice, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and cornstarch (if using). Toss everything together so the apples are well coated. Let this mixture sit while you prepare the topping.
3. Make the Crisp Topping:
In another bowl, mix together the rolled oats, flour, chopped walnuts, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Now, add the cold, diced butter into this mixture. Using your fingers or a pastry cutter, work the butter in until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This creates that delightful crunchy texture we love in a crisp!
4. Assemble the Dessert:
Spread the apple mixture evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Then sprinkle the oat and walnut topping generously over the apples, making sure to cover them well.
5. Bake It:
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the topping is golden brown and the apple filling is bubbling around the edges. If the topping starts to brown too quickly, simply cover it loosely with foil.
6. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the crisp from the oven and let it cool for a bit. Serve warm, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top for an extra treat!
Enjoy every bite of your delightful Maple Walnut Apple Crisp—perfect for a cozy dessert any time of the year!
Can I Use Other Types of Apples?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are great choices, you can also use Fuji, Braeburn, or a blend of your favorite apples for more complex flavors and sweetness.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and make sure to use certified gluten-free oats. The crisp will still be delicious!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover apple crisp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To enjoy it warm again, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or in the microwave for a quick warm-up!
Can I Freeze Maple Walnut Apple Crisp?
Yes, you can freeze it! Just bake it as instructed, let it cool completely, and then wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It should keep well for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.