This Maple Pecan Apple Crisp is a warm and cozy dessert that combines sweet apples with a crunchy pecan topping. The maple syrup adds a lovely flavor that makes every bite special!
It’s so easy to throw together, and your kitchen will smell amazing while it bakes. I love enjoying it warm with a scoop of ice cream—it’s like a hug in a bowl! 🍏🧡
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: A mix of Granny Smith for tartness and Honeycrisp for sweetness is perfect. If you can’t find these, try Fuji or Gala apples. They will provide great flavor and texture.
Maple Syrup: Pure maple syrup gives a rich flavor. If you’re on a budget, you can use honey or agave syrup, but they will change the taste slightly. I prefer the maple taste in desserts!
Pecans: These are essential for crunch. If you have nut allergies, try sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds instead. You can also use almonds, but they’ll offer a different flavor.
Oats: Old-fashioned rolled oats add great texture. If you need a gluten-free option, look for certified gluten-free oats. Steel-cut oats can work too, but they will take longer to bake.
How Do I Get the Topping Just Right?
Getting the topping to have the perfect crunch is key! Here’s how to do it:
- Combine the oats, flour, brown sugar, and spices first. This helps distribute the flavors.
- Make sure to pour in the melted butter and mix until crumbly. Don’t over-mix; you want clumps!
- Sprinkle it generously over the apples, making sure every corner is covered. This ensures a balanced tasty bite.
Don’t rush the baking process. Letting it get nice and golden is crucial for the best texture. Enjoy your crisp with ice cream or whipped cream for a treat!
Maple Pecan Apple Crisp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Apple Filling:
- 5 large apples (such as a mix of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and sliced
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1/3 cup pure maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Topping:
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup pecan halves or chopped pecans
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Maple Pecan Apple Crisp takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 40-45 minutes to bake. Altogether, you should have it ready to serve in about 1 hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
First things first, let’s get that oven heated! Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). While it heats up, you can start prepping the ingredients.
2. Prepare the Apple Filling:
In a large bowl, toss the sliced apples with lemon juice, maple syrup, vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, nutmeg, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Make sure all the apple slices are nicely coated. Spread this yummy apple mixture evenly in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
3. Mix the Topping:
In a medium bowl, combine the rolled oats, flour, brown sugar, 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Give it a quick stir to mix everything well. Then, pour the melted butter over the oat mixture and mix until it forms crumbly clumps. This will create that delicious topping texture!
4. Add the Pecans:
Stir in the pecans, leaving a few aside if you want to use them for garnishing later. This addition adds a lovely crunch!
5. Combine and Bake:
Now, sprinkle the oat-pecan mixture evenly over the apple layer in the baking dish. Bake everything in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until you see a golden brown topping and the apples bubbling deliciously underneath.
6. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a little while. Serve the apple crisp warm, and for a special treat, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top!
Enjoy your homemade Maple Pecan Apple Crisp! It’s the perfect dessert for sharing with friends and family. Happy baking!
Can I Use Different Types of Apples?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are great choices for their balance of sweetness and tartness, you can use any apples you enjoy. Other good options include Fuji, Gala, or Braeburn apples for different flavor profiles.
Can I Make This Apple Crisp Gluten-Free?
Yes, you can easily make this gluten-free! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and make sure your oats are certified gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy this dessert while catering to dietary needs!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or in the oven at a low temperature until warmed through. It’s perfect for a quick sweet treat later on!
Can I Prepare This in Advance?
Definitely! You can prep the apple filling and the topping separately a day in advance. Just keep them covered in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, simply assemble everything in the dish and pop it in the oven!
