This Bourbon Apple Crisp is a warm and cozy dessert featuring sweet, juicy apples topped with a crunchy oat mixture. The hint of bourbon adds a special touch that’s hard to resist!
The smell while it’s baking is simply amazing—your kitchen will feel like a warm hug! I love serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top—it’s the best way to enjoy it!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: Granny Smith apples are great for their tartness, while Honeycrisp adds a sweet crunch. If you can’t find them, use Fuji or Braeburn apples. Feel free to mix different varieties for more depth in flavor!
Bourbon Whiskey: The bourbon adds warmth and richness. If you don’t have it or prefer to avoid alcohol, try using apple juice or cider for a complementary flavor. You can also use maple syrup for a richer sweetness without alcohol.
Butter: Unsalted butter is my go-to because it allows me to control the saltiness. If you’re looking for an alternative, coconut oil or vegan butter works well too for a dairy-free option.
Oats: Using old-fashioned rolled oats gives a nice texture. If you want gluten-free, there are certified gluten-free oats available. Quick oats work too, but they’ll be a bit softer in texture.
How Can I Achieve the Perfect Oat Topping?
Making the topping just right is crucial for a delicious bourbon apple crisp! You want it golden and crunchy without becoming too hard. Here are some tips:
- Keep the butter cold. This helps create those lovely chunks in the topping.
- Mix until it’s crumbly. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to combine the butter with the dry ingredients, but don’t overmix; you want some larger pieces.
- Don’t skip the baking time! Bake until the topping is golden brown and the apples are bubbly. Check occasionally to avoid burning.
- Let it cool a bit after baking. This helps everything set up, making it easier to serve.
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Bourbon Apple Crisp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 6 medium apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and diced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 tablespoons bourbon whiskey
For the Topping:
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 2/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 2/3 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes
Optional:
- Vanilla ice cream, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Bourbon Apple Crisp takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 40-45 minutes to bake. With a total time of about 1 hour, you’ll have a warm and delicious dessert ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your crisp bakes evenly. Take a moment to lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or individual ramekins so nothing sticks!
2. Prepare the Apple Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, toss the diced apples with lemon juice, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and bourbon. Make sure the apples are evenly coated with the sweet and fragrant mixture. Once mixed, transfer the apple filling into the prepared baking dish.
3. Make the Oat Topping:
In another bowl, mix together the rolled oats, flour, brown sugar, and salt. Add the cold butter cubes to the dry ingredients. Using your fingers or a pastry cutter, rub the butter into the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. You want some larger pieces for that crunchy topping!
4. Assemble and Bake:
Sprinkle the oat topping generously over the apples in the baking dish. Place the dish in the oven and bake for about 40-45 minutes. You’re looking for a golden brown topping and bubbly apples—your kitchen is about to smell fantastic!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once baked, take the crisp out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve warm, and if you’d like, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top! Enjoy every comforting bite of this delicious treat.
Bon appétit! This bourbon apple crisp is perfect for sharing with friends and family—or savoring all on your own!
Can I Use Different Types of Apples?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are great choices, feel free to experiment with Fuji, Braeburn, or even a mix of apples for enhanced flavor. Just make sure to use a mix of sweet and tart apples for the best balance!
Can I Omit the Bourbon?
Yes, if you prefer to avoid alcohol, you can substitute the bourbon with apple juice or cider, which will still give a nice fruity flavor. Maple syrup is another excellent option for added sweetness without the alcohol.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the oven or microwave. If you prefer, you can enjoy it cold, as the flavors continue to meld!
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare the apple filling and the topping a day ahead. Just keep them separate and assemble just before baking. This way, you’ll have a fresh, hot dessert ready to go without too much last-minute work!