Apple crisp is one of those timeless desserts that everyone loves, particularly when the weather starts to turn cooler. Its sweet, warm apple filling combined with a crispy, buttery topping makes for a perfect treat after a hearty meal or even as a cozy afternoon snack. Whether you prefer a simple version or one that includes extra ingredients like nuts, oats, or caramel, there’s an apple crisp recipe for everyone. Here are our top 10 apple crisp recipes of all time, each with a unique twist to bring out the best in this beloved dessert.
1. Classic Apple Crisp
This traditional apple crisp recipe is a fan favorite for a reason—it’s simple, yet absolutely delicious. It features a warm, cinnamon-spiced filling made from tender, tart apples, topped with a buttery, golden-brown oat and brown sugar crumble. The combination of textures—the soft apples with the crunchy topping—makes each bite irresistible. The recipe doesn’t call for any fancy ingredients, just the basics like apples, butter, sugar, and oats, but the result is always comforting and satisfying. Perfect for a cozy evening, this recipe is easy to make and sure to please a crowd. Get the recipe: Classic Apple Crisp
2. Caramel Apple Crisp
If you love the rich, gooey goodness of caramel, this caramel apple crisp is the perfect dessert for you. The apple filling is generously covered in a layer of homemade caramel sauce before being topped with a crunchy oat topping. The sweet caramel sauce melts into the apples as they bake, creating a gooey, delicious contrast to the crisp topping. You’ll get the sweet, buttery flavor of caramel in every bite, making this an extra special take on the classic apple crisp. It’s the perfect dessert for those who like a bit of indulgence with their fruit-based treats. Get the recipe: Caramel Apple Crisp
3. Apple Crisp with Streusel Topping
For those who prefer a more delicate, crumbly topping, this apple crisp with streusel topping is a must-try. The streusel topping is made with a mix of flour, butter, sugar, and cinnamon, resulting in a slightly finer crumble that adds a melt-in-your-mouth texture. When baked, the streusel becomes golden and crisp, providing a lovely contrast to the tender, spiced apples beneath. The apple filling itself is sweetened lightly and flavored with cinnamon and a touch of lemon juice to balance the sweetness. This recipe is a great way to enjoy the classic dessert with a subtle twist. Get the recipe: Apple Crisp with Streusel Topping
4. Oatmeal Apple Crisp
This oatmeal apple crisp combines the best of both worlds—apples and oatmeal! The topping is made with rolled oats, which adds a hearty, nutty flavor to the crisp. The oats create a beautiful, crunchy layer that pairs wonderfully with the tender, cinnamon-spiced apple filling. The oatmeal gives the topping a more substantial texture, making this apple crisp feel even more filling. If you enjoy a little extra texture and love oats, this version of apple crisp will surely become your new favorite. Get the recipe: Oatmeal Apple Crisp
5. Gluten-Free Apple Crisp
For those with dietary restrictions, this gluten-free apple crisp is the perfect alternative to the traditional recipe. Made with gluten-free oats and a blend of gluten-free flour and almond flour for the crumble topping, this dessert is just as delicious as its gluten-filled counterparts. The apple filling remains the same, with the sweet and tangy flavor of cinnamon-spiced apples. You won’t even notice the difference in texture or flavor, and the crisp topping holds up beautifully during baking. This recipe ensures that everyone can enjoy a delicious serving of apple crisp, no matter their dietary needs. Get the recipe: Gluten-Free Apple Crisp
6. Apple Pear Crisp
If you want to elevate your apple crisp, try adding pears into the mix! This apple pear crisp combines the flavors of sweet, juicy pears with tart apples for a layered flavor profile that is both comforting and refreshing. The pears soften during baking, blending seamlessly with the apples, while the crisp topping—made with a combination of oats and brown sugar—adds the perfect amount of crunch. The subtle pairing of apples and pears makes this crisp even more delicious and unique, offering a wonderful twist on the classic apple dessert. Get the recipe: Apple Pear Crisp
7. Apple Cinnamon Crisp
For those who love the warm spice of cinnamon, this apple cinnamon crisp is a great choice. Cinnamon and nutmeg are generously mixed into both the apple filling and the crumble topping, infusing the whole dish with rich, aromatic flavors. The apples bake down into a soft, spiced filling that’s complemented by the slightly sweet, crunchy topping. This dessert is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for enjoying on a cool autumn evening or as a cozy treat any time of year. Get the recipe: Apple Cinnamon Crisp
8. Vegan Apple Crisp
This vegan apple crisp offers the same delicious flavors as the classic version, but without any dairy or eggs. The topping is made with coconut oil instead of butter, and maple syrup is used for sweetness. The apple filling is simple—just apples, cinnamon, and a bit of sugar—but it’s still incredibly flavorful. This recipe is perfect for those following a plant-based diet or anyone looking for a healthier alternative that doesn’t compromise on taste. It’s just as indulgent and comforting as traditional apple crisp, with a lighter, vegan-friendly twist. Get the recipe: Vegan Apple Crisp
9. Apple Crisp with Walnuts
For a crunchy, nutty twist on the traditional apple crisp, this version incorporates walnuts into the crumble topping. The walnuts add a rich, earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweet apples. They also provide an extra layer of crunch, making the topping even more satisfying. The apples themselves are spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg, creating a warm and inviting filling. This recipe is ideal for anyone who loves the combination of apples and nuts, adding a touch of sophistication to this classic dessert. Get the recipe: Apple Crisp with Walnuts
10. Slow Cooker Apple Crisp
This slow cooker apple crisp is perfect for anyone looking for a super simple, hands-off way to make this delicious dessert. The apples are slow-cooked to perfection, becoming tender and caramelized, while the crisp topping bakes on top. All you need to do is assemble the ingredients, set your slow cooker, and let it work its magic. The result is a warm, gooey apple crisp with a perfectly golden topping. It’s an excellent option for busy days when you want to enjoy a comforting dessert without spending a lot of time in the kitchen. Get the recipe: Slow Cooker Apple Crisp
Apple crisp is a beloved dessert that can be easily customized to suit every taste and dietary preference. Whether you prefer a simple classic version or one with exciting additions like caramel, nuts, or pears, there’s an apple crisp recipe here for everyone. Each of these recipes brings something unique to the table, from the rich, gooey caramel apple crisp to the light, refreshing vegan apple crisp. These 10 apple crisp recipes will ensure that you never run out of ways to enjoy this comforting, delicious treat.
