Easy Apple Cranberry Crisp
A warm and comforting dessert that combines sweet apples and tart cranberries, topped with a buttery, crunchy oat topping, perfect for fall gatherings.
Ingredients
Fruit Filling
- 8 cups apples, peeled and sliced Choose a mix of sweet and tart varieties for depth of flavor.
- 2 cups cranberries, fresh or frozen Their bright tartness complements the sweetness of the apples beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons orange juice Adds a zesty brightness.
- 2 teaspoons orange zest Enhances the citrus notes and aroma.
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour Helps thicken the fruit filling.
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar Adds sweetness.
- 1/4 cup light brown sugar, packed Adds depth and caramel flavor.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon Introduces warmth and spice.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger Provides a gentle kick.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom Adds an aromatic touch.
Topping
- 8 ounces unsalted butter, at room temperature Ensures a rich topping.
- 1 1/2 cups old-fashioned oats Creates a chewy crunch.
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar (for topping) Balances the flavors.
- 3/4 cup light brown sugar (for topping) Adds richness.
- 3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for topping) Unifies the flavors.
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour (for topping) Gives structure.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly grease a 9 x 13-inch baking dish with butter.
- In a large bowl, toss the sliced apples and cranberries with the orange juice and zest.
- Sprinkle the flour, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, and spices over the fruit and gently toss to coat evenly.
- Pour the fruit mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
Topping
- In another large bowl, combine oats, both sugars, cinnamon, and flour for the topping.
- Add the cubed butter and cut it into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles a coarse meal.
- Sprinkle the topping evenly over the fruit mixture.
Baking
- Bake for 55 to 60 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the fruit is bubbling.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool on a rack before serving.
Notes
Serve warm, preferably with ice cream or whipped cream. Keep an eye on the crisp in the oven; cover with foil if the topping browns too quickly. Variations include using nuts or swapping sugars for alternatives.