There’s something so comforting about the smell of apples and cinnamon filling the house, especially when making Oatmeal Cookie Apple Crisp, isn’t there?
For me, the aroma brings back memories of crisp autumn days, bundled up in cozy sweaters, and spending time in the kitchen with family.
One of my all-time favorite fall desserts has to be Oatmeal Cookie Apple Crisp. It’s the perfect balance of tart, juicy apples, and a crunchy, buttery oat topping that reminds me of warm oatmeal cookies straight from the oven.
This recipe feels like home, and every time I make it, it fills my kitchen with that familiar, heartwarming scent.
What I love most about Oatmeal Cookie Apple Crisp is how it combines two beloved desserts into one easy dish that’s perfect for sharing.
Whether you’re making it for a weeknight treat or a family gathering, this recipe always seems to bring everyone together around the table, savoring every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Oatmeal Cookie Apple Crisp
This Oatmeal Cookie Apple Crisp is the best of both worlds—think warm, spiced apples baked beneath a golden, crunchy oat topping that tastes just like your favorite oatmeal cookies.
It’s a breeze to make, with simple ingredients you likely already have at home.
Plus, it’s versatile! Whether you’re serving it hot with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or sneaking a spoonful cold from the fridge, this dish never disappoints.
It’s the kind of dessert that feels both special and easy enough for any day of the week.
If this Oatmeal Cookie Apple Crisp hit the spot, you’ll definitely want to explore our delicious Classic Apple Pie and Fudgy Chocolate Brownie Cookies!
Ingredient Notes
To make the best Oatmeal Cookie Apple Crisp, you’ll need a few pantry staples and fresh apples. Here’s a breakdown of the key ingredients:
- Apples: I like to use a mix of tart Granny Smith and sweet Honeycrisp for a balanced flavor. Feel free to use whatever apples you have on hand!
- Old-fashioned oats: These give the topping that cookie-like texture. If you’re gluten-free, you can easily swap in certified gluten-free oats.
- Butter: Cold, cubed butter is key for a crisp, crumbly topping. For a dairy-free version, use a plant-based alternative.
- Brown sugar: Adds that rich, caramel-like sweetness to both the filling and the topping. You can swap it for coconut sugar if you want a healthier twist.
- Cinnamon and nutmeg: These warm spices are essential for that classic fall flavor.
- Flour: Used in the topping to bind the oats together. You can substitute it with almond flour for a gluten-free option.
How To Make Oatmeal Cookie Apple Crisp
Making this Oatmeal Cookie Apple Crisp couldn’t be easier! Here’s how to do it step by step:
- Preheat your oven: Start by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a baking dish.
- Prepare the apples: Peel, core, and slice 5 to 6 medium apples. Toss them in a bowl with a little lemon juice, ¼ cup of brown sugar, 1 tablespoon of flour, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Spread this mixture evenly in your prepared baking dish.
- Make the topping: In another bowl, combine 1 cup of old-fashioned oats, ½ cup of flour, ½ cup of brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and ¼ teaspoon of nutmeg. Cut in ½ cup of cold, cubed butter using a pastry cutter or your hands until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Assemble: Sprinkle the oat topping evenly over the apples, making sure everything is well-covered.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are bubbling.
- Cool and serve: Let it cool for a few minutes before serving, either on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Pure bliss!
Loved creating this Oatmeal Cookie Apple Crisp? You can find the complete printable recipe just below, so feel free to grab it!
Serving and Storage Options
Oatmeal Cookie Apple Crisp is best enjoyed warm from the oven, but it’s also great the next day. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
If you want to make it ahead of time, you can prepare the crisp and freeze it unbaked for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, bake directly from frozen, adding an extra 10 minutes to the baking time.
For reheating, pop individual portions in the microwave for 30 seconds or warm them in the oven until heated through.
Some Variations and Substitutions for Oatmeal Cookie Apple Crisp
This recipe is wonderfully adaptable! Here are a few ideas to change things up:
- Gluten-free: Use gluten-free oats and almond flour for a completely gluten-free version.
- Vegan: Swap out the butter for coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative.
- Nuts: Add a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts to the topping for extra crunch.
- Fruit swap: Try using pears, peaches, or even mixed berries instead of apples for a fresh twist!
Feel free to make this recipe your own—it’s so forgiving, and every variation tastes amazing.
PrintOatmeal Cookie Apple Crisp
This Oatmeal Cookie Apple Crisp is a delightful fusion of warm, tender apples and a crunchy, sweet oat topping that tastes just like your favorite oatmeal cookies. Perfectly spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg, this comforting dessert is ideal for cozy family gatherings or a simple evening treat.
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients
For the apple filling:
- 6 cups of peeled and sliced apples (about 6 medium apples, such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
For the oatmeal cookie topping:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, granulated sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and optional flour. Mix well to coat the apples evenly, then transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In another bowl, mix together the rolled oats, flour, brown sugar, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
- Pour the melted butter and vanilla extract into the oat mixture. Stir until everything is combined and crumbly.
- Sprinkle the oatmeal topping evenly over the apple filling.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the apples are bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
- Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving warm, ideally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top!
Notes
- Feel free to mix different types of apples for varied flavors and textures.
- You can substitute gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 22g
Recipe FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the entire crisp, cover it, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. If freezing, wrap it tightly and store it unbaked for up to 3 months.
What apples work best for this recipe?
A mix of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples works beautifully, balancing tart and sweet. But really, use whatever apples you love or have on hand!
How do I make this gluten-free?
Simply swap regular flour for almond flour or a gluten-free baking blend and use certified gluten-free oats. It’s just as delicious!
Conclusion
There’s something magical about the simplicity of this Oatmeal Cookie Apple Crisp. It’s cozy, and comforting, and brings the best fall flavors to the table.
Whether you’re making it for a quiet family night or a holiday gathering, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home.
I encourage you to give it a try, and maybe even share your own twist on the recipe!
After all, cooking is all about creating memories, and I hope this dessert helps you make a few sweet ones with your loved ones.