Old Fashioned Apple Crisp with Oatmeal Topping
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There’s something special about a truly old-fashioned apple crisp — the kind made with simple pantry ingredients, a buttery oatmeal topping, and plenty of tender cinnamon apples underneath. This version is inspired by classic church cookbook recipes and potluck desserts that always disappeared first.
If you love a traditional apple crisp with a crumbly oat topping and soft baked apples, this is the recipe for you.
Not sure which apple crisp to make?
If you’re looking for my most popular family favorite, try my Best Apple Crisp (my mom’s recipe that gets the most love).
Want a traditional, classic version? This old-fashioned apple crisp is perfect.
Planning to cook outdoors? My Campfire Apple Crisp is made for camping trips.
Why You’ll Love This Old-Fashioned Apple Crisp
- Classic oatmeal crumb topping
- Soft, cinnamon-spiced apples
- Simple pantry ingredients
- Perfect for fall or holiday gatherings
- Delicious with vanilla ice cream
Key Ingredients for Traditional Apple Crisp
- Fresh apples for a soft, tender base
- Lemon juice to brighten the flavor
- Cinnamon for classic warmth
- Old-fashioned oats for a hearty crumb topping
- Melted butter for a rich, golden texture
🥄 How to Make Old-Fashioned Apple Crisp
Prepare the apples
Peel, core, and slice the apples, then toss them with the sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice until evenly coated. Spread the apples into your baking dish.
Make the oatmeal topping
In a separate bowl, mix the oats, flour, sugars, and melted butter until the mixture becomes crumbly. Spoon the topping evenly over the apples.
Bake until golden and tender
Place the dish into the oven and bake until the apples are soft and the topping is golden brown. Let the crisp cool slightly before serving so the filling can set.
Full ingredient amounts and detailed baking instructions are in the printable recipe card below.
What to Serve with Apple Crisp
This old-fashioned apple crisp is delicious served warm with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce. It also pairs nicely with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a cozy fall dessert.
Easy Apple Crisp Variations
- Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the topping
- Use Granny Smith apples for a more tart flavor
- Mix in dried cranberries or raisins
- Sprinkle nutmeg or apple pie spice for extra warmth
More Apple Recipes You’ll Love
Here’s the recipe printable for you
Old Fashioned Oatmeal Apple Crisp
Ingredients
Filling
- 5-6 apples peeled, cored, and sliced. Granny Smith or Honey Crisp apples work best.
- 1½ tsp. lemon juice
- 2 Tbsp. flour
- ½ cup sugar
- 1 tsp. cinnamon
Topping
- 1 cup oatmeal old fashioned
- ½ cup flour all-purpose
- ¼ cup sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup butter melted
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- In a large bowl, toss the apples with the lemon juice, sugar, and cinnamon until evenly coated.
- Place the sliced apples into a deep 8×11-inch baking dish.
- In a separate bowl, stir together the oats, flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and melted butter until crumbly.
- Spoon the topping evenly over the apples.
- Bake for about 50–60 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
