Cranberry Apple Crisp with Oatmeal Topping

Introduction

Cranberry Apple Crisp with Oatmeal Topping is a warm, comforting dessert that perfectly captures the flavors of fall. Juicy apples and tart cranberries are baked under a golden, buttery oatmeal topping, creating a balance of sweet and tangy flavors with a satisfying crunch. This crisp is perfect for holiday dinners, cozy family gatherings, or simply as a treat to enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee.

I love this recipe because it’s easy, wholesome, and bursting with seasonal flavors. The tartness of cranberries complements the sweetness of baked apples, while the oat and brown sugar topping adds texture and richness. It’s a dessert that feels both indulgent and homey—a true comfort food that warms your heart and kitchen.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it combines the perfect balance of sweet and tart with a satisfying crunch. The oatmeal topping adds a rustic, homemade touch, while the cranberries provide a beautiful pop of color and tangy flavor. It’s versatile, easy to make, and the smell of baked apples and cinnamon filling the kitchen is simply irresistible. This crisp is both comforting and elegant, making it perfect for everyday desserts or special occasions.

Why It’s a Must-Try

• Seasonal flavors: Apples and cranberries highlight autumn and winter harvests.
• Perfect texture: Soft, tender fruit with a crunchy, golden oatmeal topping.
• Simple to make: Minimal ingredients, yet impressive results.
• Versatile serving: Delicious on its own or paired with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
• Family-friendly: A crowd-pleasing dessert suitable for all ages.

Recipe Overview

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 40–45 minutes
• Total Time: 55–60 minutes
• Servings: 6–8
• Calories: ~320 kcal per serving
• Course: Dessert
• Cuisine: American / Contemporary

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📝 Ingredients

For the Fruit Filling:

• 4 cups peeled, cored, and sliced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
• 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (to thicken the filling)

For the Oatmeal Topping:

• 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ tsp salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes
• ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

Cooking Directions

Preparing the Fruit Filling:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced apples, cranberries, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, vanilla, and flour. Toss gently to coat.
3. Spread the fruit mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.

Making the Oatmeal Topping:

1. In a medium bowl, combine oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
2. Cut in cold butter using a pastry cutter or fingers until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Stir in chopped nuts if using.
4. Sprinkle topping evenly over fruit filling.

Baking:

1. Bake in preheated oven for 40–45 minutes, until fruit is bubbly and topping is golden brown.
2. Let cool slightly before serving.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease baking dish.
2. Prepare fruit filling: mix apples, cranberries, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, vanilla, and flour.
3. Spread fruit mixture evenly in the dish.
4. Make oatmeal topping: combine oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and cut in butter. Stir in nuts.
5. Sprinkle topping over fruit.
6. Bake 40–45 minutes until golden and bubbly.
7. Cool slightly and serve warm.

How to Serve

• Serve warm on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• Drizzle with caramel sauce or whipped cream for extra indulgence.
• Great for holiday desserts or cozy family nights.

Recipe Tips

• Fruit selection: Mix tart and sweet apples for balanced flavor.
• Cranberries: Fresh or frozen cranberries work; no need to thaw frozen ones.
• Topping texture: Cold butter ensures a crumbly, crunchy topping.
• Prevent sogginess: Toss fruit in flour to thicken juices while baking.
• Make ahead: Assemble in advance and refrigerate; bake when ready.

Variations

1. Mixed berry crisp: Replace cranberries with raspberries or blueberries.
2. Spiced crisp: Add ¼ tsp ground cloves or allspice to the topping.
3. Gluten-free: Use gluten-free flour and oats.
4. Nut-free: Omit nuts or substitute with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower.
5. Caramel drizzle: Add caramel sauce on top before serving for extra richness.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigerator: Store in airtight container for up to 3 days; reheat before serving.
• Freezer: Freeze unbaked for up to 1 month; thaw in fridge and bake as directed.
• Reheating: Warm in oven at 325°F (160°C) until heated through.

Special Equipment Needed

• 9×9-inch baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• Pastry cutter or fork
• Knife for slicing apples
• Spoon or spatula

FAQ

Q1: Can I use canned apples?
A: Fresh apples are preferred for texture, but peeled, sliced canned apples work if drained well.

Q2: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes, prepare and refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve.

Q3: Can I omit the nuts?
A: Yes, the crisp is still delicious without nuts.

Q4: Can I use only apples without cranberries?
A: Yes, but cranberries add tartness that balances the sweetness.

Q5: How do I prevent the topping from burning?
A: Cover loosely with foil if it browns too quickly; uncover for last 10 minutes to crisp.

Conclusion

Cranberry Apple Crisp with Oatmeal Topping is a warm, comforting, and flavorful dessert perfect for fall and winter. The sweet-tart fruit filling paired with a buttery, crunchy oatmeal topping makes it a crowd-pleaser for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or cozy nights at home. Simple to prepare yet bursting with flavor, this crisp is a must-try for anyone who loves classic, comforting desserts.