Introduction
As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, there’s nothing quite like the comforting taste of fall to warm your soul. One of the season’s most beloved ingredients is, of course, the apple. Bursting with flavor, apples are perfect for transforming into delightful desserts that capture the essence of autumn. This Fall Harvest Sheet Pan Apple Crisp with Cinnamon Oat Crumble is a celebration of the season, bringing together the sweet and tart notes of fresh apples, the warmth of cinnamon, and a satisfying crunchy topping that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
What makes this recipe particularly special is its simplicity and ease of preparation. Utilizing a sheet pan allows for a generous batch that is perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or a cozy family dinner. The roasted apples are generously topped with a hearty oat crumble, creating a delicious contrast in texture that is both comforting and indulgent.
So, gather your favorite apple varieties and get ready to fill your kitchen with the heavenly aroma of spiced fruit. Whether served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoyed on its own, this apple crisp is sure to become a cherished autumn tradition in your home. Let’s dive into this deliciously easy recipe that embodies the spirit of fall!
Ingredients
- 6 medium apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
- 2 cups fresh cranberries (or frozen, thawed)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp nutmeg
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
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- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
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- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced apples, fresh cranberries, brown sugar, lemon juice, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and nutmeg. Toss until the fruit is well coated. Spread the mixture evenly across the prepared sheet pan.
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- In another bowl, combine the rolled oats, all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, remaining 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Mix well.
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- Add the cold, cubed butter to the oat mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the chopped nuts if using.
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- Evenly sprinkle the oat crumble mixture over the apple and cranberry layer in the sheet pan.
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- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the fruit is bubbling.
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- Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side!
- Prep Time: 15 min | Total Time: 50 min | Servings: 8
Key Ingredients
- Apples: 4-6 medium-sized, such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, peeled, cored, and sliced
- Oats: 1 cup rolled oats for the crumble topping
- Brown Sugar: 1/2 cup for sweetness in the crisp mixture
- All-Purpose Flour: 1/2 cup to help bind the crumble together
- Cinnamon: 1-2 teaspoons for warming flavor in both the apples and the crumble
- Nutmeg: 1/2 teaspoon (optional) to enhance the autumn flavor profile
- Butter: 1/2 cup, melted, for richness in the crumble
- Honey or Maple Syrup: 2 tablespoons, for drizzling and extra sweetness (optional)
- Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon, to toss with the apple slices for brightness and to help prevent browning
- Salt: 1/4 teaspoon to enhance the flavors of the dish
- Chopped Nuts: 1/2 cup (e.g., walnuts or pecans), for added texture and flavor in the crumble (optional)
Feel free to customize the ingredient amounts based on your taste preferences and dietary needs!
Baking Process
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your apple crisp bakes evenly and achieves a nice, golden brown color.
Step 2: Prepare the Apples
Core and slice approximately 4 large apples (like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix) into uniform pieces, about 1/4-inch thick. Place them in a large mixing bowl. Add 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice to the apple slices. Toss until the apples are evenly coated. This infuses the apples with flavor and helps balance their natural tartness.
Step 3: Assemble on the Sheet Pan
Spread the coated apple mixture evenly across a greased or parchment-lined sheet pan. Make sure to distribute them in a single layer for even baking.
Step 4: Prepare the Cinnamon Oat Crumble
In a separate bowl, combine 1 cup of old-fashioned oats, 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of packed brown sugar, 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Mix well. Then, cut in 1/2 cup of unsalted cold butter until crumbly. You can use a pastry cutter, fork, or your fingers to work the butter into the dry ingredients until you have a crumbly mixture with pea-sized clumps.
Step 5: Add the Crumble Topping
Sprinkle the cinnamon oat crumble evenly over the prepared apples in the sheet pan. Make sure the crumble covers the apples well for a delightful crunch in every bite.
Step 6: Bake the Crisp
Place the sheet pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the crumble topping is golden brown. Keep an eye on it to ensure the topping doesn’t burn; if it’s browning too quickly, you can loosely cover it with aluminum foil.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the crisp from the oven and let it cool for about 10-15 minutes. This step allows the juices to thicken slightly. Serve warm, perhaps topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgence.
Bonus Tip
Enjoy your Fall Harvest Sheet Pan Apple Crisp as a comforting dessert or even for breakfast with a drizzle of yogurt. The warm spices and sweet apple aroma will fill your kitchen, making it a perfect autumn treat!
Serving Suggestions
This delightful Fall Harvest Sheet Pan Apple Crisp with Cinnamon Oat Crumble is a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways! Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dish:
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Ala Mode: Serve warm with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream or creamy gelato on top. The melting ice cream will create a delicious contrast to the crisp.
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Whipped Cream: Top each serving with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a light spray of whipped topping for a cloud-like texture that complements the warm apples.
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Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle some warm caramel sauce over the crisp for an indulgent touch. The caramel adds a sweet richness that balances the tartness of the apples.
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Nutty Touch: Sprinkle with chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch and flavor. This simple addition enhances the nuttiness of the oat crumble.
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Yogurt Delight: For a healthier twist, serve with a scoop of Greek yogurt. The tangy yogurt pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the apple crisp.
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Coffee Pairing: Enjoy your apple crisp with a steaming cup of coffee or spiced chai tea. The flavors of cinnamon and warmth will enhance the cozy experience.
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Breakfast Treat: Leftovers make for an excellent breakfast option! Reheat a portion and serve it with yogurt and fresh fruit for a wholesome start to your day.
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Picnic Ready: Pack portions for an autumn picnic! The sheet pan crisp travels well and can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
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Party Platter: If serving at a gathering, slice squares of the crisp and arrange them on a platter with a selection of toppings like caramel, nuts, or whipped cream for a fun, build-your-own dessert station.
Feel free to mix and match these ideas to create your perfect serving style. Enjoy every scrumptious bite of this fall-themed delight!
Conclusion
This Fall Harvest Sheet Pan Apple Crisp with Cinnamon Oat Crumble is the perfect way to celebrate the season’s bounty. With the warmth of cinnamon and the natural sweetness of the apples, this dish is not just a dessert; it’s an experience that brings the essence of autumn right to your table. The convenience of a sheet pan makes it an ideal choice for gatherings, allowing you to serve a crowd without much hassle.
You can enjoy this delightful treat on its own, or consider pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgence. It’s also a fantastic option for a cozy family dinner or a festive holiday gathering.
Don’t forget to experiment with different apple varieties or add in some nuts for added crunch! This recipe not only showcases the beautiful flavors of fall but also allows you to create delicious memories with friends and family. So preheat that oven, fill your home with the wonderful aroma of baked apples, and dive into a slice of autumn bliss! Happy baking!
