Name: Apple Cranberry Crisp: 5 Steps to Comforting Indulgence
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cups apples (about 4 medium-sized apples, peeled, cored, and chopped); 2 cups cranberries (fresh or frozen); 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats; ½ cup all-purpose flour; ½ cup brown sugar (packed); ½ cup unsalted butter (melted); 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg; ¼ teaspoon salt; Vanilla ice cream (optional); Whipped cream (optional)

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Apple Cranberry Crisp is the epitome of comfort food, especially as the leaves turn and the air grows crisp. This deliciously comforting dessert features tender baked apples mixed with tart cranberries, all topped with a buttery oat crumble. The combination of sweet and tart flavors, along with the warm, gooey texture, makes it an irresistible choice for fall festivities or any cozy gathering. Serve it warm, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and you have a dessert that will warm your heart and soul.

Why You’ll Love This Apple Cranberry Crisp

This Apple Cranberry Crisp is not just a dessert; it’s an experience. Here’s why you’ll adore it:

It combines the sweetness of apples with the tartness of cranberries for a perfectly balanced flavor.
This dish is an easy Apple Cranberry Dessert that requires minimal prep time.
It’s a healthy choice, especially when using fresh fruit and whole ingredients.
Perfect for serving at gatherings, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that appeals to both kids and adults.
It can be made gluten-free or vegan, making it adaptable for various diets.
It’s a classic American dish, embodying the essence of fall comfort food.

Ingredients for Apple Cranberry Crisp

Gather these items:

4 cups apples (about 4 medium-sized apples, peeled, cored, and chopped)
2 cups cranberries (fresh or frozen)
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
½ cup all-purpose flour
½ cup brown sugar (packed)
½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
¼ teaspoon salt
Vanilla ice cream (optional)
Whipped cream (optional)

How to Make Apple Cranberry Crisp Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine apples, cranberries, and granulated sugar. Toss well to coat the fruit, then spread evenly in the baking dish.
Step 3: In another bowl, mix old-fashioned rolled oats, all-purpose flour, brown sugar, melted butter, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt until crumbly.
Step 4: Sprinkle the oat topping over the fruit mixture, covering it completely.
Step 5: Bake for about 45 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the fruit is bubbling hot.
Step 6: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Serve warm, optionally topped with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Apple Cranberry Crisp

Keep these in mind:

Best served warm for the ultimate comfort.
This Apple Cranberry Crisp pairs wonderfully with ice cream or whipped cream.
You can use fresh or frozen cranberries, depending on availability.
For a twist, add nuts or spices to the topping for extra flavor.
Try swapping in other fruits like pears for a different taste!

Apple Cranberry Crisp: 5 Steps to Comforting Indulgence - Apple Cranberry Crisp - main visual representation

Best Ways to Serve Apple Cranberry Crisp

Here are some great serving ideas:

Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic treat.
Top with whipped cream for a light and airy finish.
Pair with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon dessert.

How to Store and Reheat Apple Cranberry Crisp

To store leftovers, cover the Apple Cranberry Crisp with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate. It can be reheated in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, ensuring it’s heated through and the topping stays crispy. This makes it perfect for meal prep!

Frequently Asked Questions About Apple Cranberry Crisp

What’s the secret to perfect Apple Cranberry Crisp?

The secret lies in balancing sweetness with tartness—using the right variety of apples and fresh cranberries makes a big difference. Also, a crumbly topping with just enough butter creates that perfect texture!

Can I make Apple Cranberry Crisp ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the fruit mixture and topping separately, then assemble them before baking. This way, you can enjoy a freshly baked Apple Cranberry Crisp with minimal effort!

How do I avoid common mistakes with Apple Cranberry Crisp?

To avoid sogginess, ensure you use a good balance of fruit and toppings. Also, let it cool slightly after baking. This helps the mixture set, enhancing the texture for serving.

Variations of Apple Cranberry Crisp You Can Try

Here are some fun variations:

For a gluten-free Apple Cranberry Dessert, substitute the all-purpose flour with almond or coconut flour.
Try adding nuts like pecans or walnuts to the crumble topping for added crunch.
For a vegan Apple Cranberry Crisp, replace the butter with coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative.
Combine with other fruits like blueberries or pears to create a mixed fruit delight.

For more delicious dessert ideas, check out Mini Cranberry Cheesecakes or Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars. If you’re interested in gluten-free options, visit Apple Snickerdoodles for a tasty treat!

For more information on the health benefits of apples, you can refer to Healthline.