Introduction
There’s something undeniably comforting about the aroma of apple crisp baking in the oven. As the temperatures drop and leaves turn golden, nothing welcomes fall quite like this classic dessert. I’ve gathered 50 incredible apple crisp recipes that transform the traditional favorite into exciting new variations perfect for any occasion. From classic cinnamon-spiced treats to unexpected flavor combinations, these apple crisp recipes will become your go-to desserts all season long. My family has been making apple crisp for generations, and I’ve discovered that the secret to the perfect crisp is using a variety of apple types—some that hold their shape and others that break down into that heavenly saucy layer beneath the crispy topping.
1. Salted Caramel Apple Crisp
This Salted Caramel Apple Crisp elevates the classic dessert with rich, buttery caramel sauce and a hint of flaky sea salt that perfectly balances the sweetness. The contrast between the gooey caramel-coated apples and the crispy oat topping creates an irresistible texture that will have everyone asking for seconds. It’s elegant enough for holiday gatherings yet simple enough for a cozy weeknight treat.
2. Chai Spiced Apple Crisp
Infusing your apple crisp with warming chai spices takes this dessert to an entirely new level of autumn comfort. The cardamom, cloves, and black pepper blend perfectly with traditional cinnamon and nutmeg for a sophisticated flavor profile that will surprise and delight your taste buds. This version pairs beautifully with a cup of afternoon tea or as a special breakfast treat on chilly mornings.
3. Bourbon Pecan Apple Crisp
This sophisticated Bourbon Pecan Apple Crisp combines the richness of toasted pecans with the subtle warmth of quality bourbon for a truly grown-up dessert experience. The alcohol cooks off, leaving behind a complex caramel-like flavor that complements the natural sweetness of the apples. Perfect for dinner parties or special occasions when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.
4. Gluten-Free Apple Crisp
Nobody should miss out on the joy of apple crisp, and this gluten-free version ensures everyone can indulge without compromise. Using a clever blend of oat flour, almond flour, and certified gluten-free oats, this crisp topping achieves the perfect texture while remaining completely safe for those with gluten sensitivities. You’ll be amazed that something this delicious doesn’t contain wheat!
5. Vegan Apple Crisp
This plant-based apple crisp proves that dairy-free doesn’t mean flavor-free. Using coconut oil instead of butter and maple syrup as a natural sweetener, this vegan version delivers all the comforting flavors and textures you crave in an apple crisp. The topping still achieves that perfect golden crunch while the apples cook down to tender perfection, making it impossible to tell it’s made without animal products.
6. Hasselback Apple Crisp
This stunning presentation transforms humble apple crisp into an elegant dessert worthy of special occasions. The hasselback technique—thinly slicing the apples while keeping them intact at the bottom—allows the spiced butter mixture to penetrate every layer for incredible flavor distribution. Each serving becomes a beautiful individual portion that’s as impressive to look at as it is delicious to eat.
7. Individual Mini Apple Crisps
These charming single-serving apple crisps are perfect for dinner parties or family gatherings where individual desserts add a special touch. Baked in ramekins or small mason jars, each person gets their perfect ratio of juicy apples to crispy topping. They’re also fantastic for portion control and can be easily customized with different apple varieties or spice levels for each family member’s preference.
8. Skillet Apple Crisp
This one-pan wonder simplifies your baking process while creating a rustic, homestyle dessert with incredible caramelization. The cast iron skillet conducts heat beautifully, creating perfectly tender apples and an exceptionally crispy topping with those coveted crispy edges everyone fights over. Plus, bringing the warm skillet directly to the table makes for a dramatic presentation that’s perfect for casual gatherings.
9. Slow Cooker Apple Crisp
When you want the comforting aroma of apple crisp filling your home without heating up the kitchen, this slow cooker version is the answer. Simply layer your ingredients, set the timer, and return hours later to perfectly tender, spice-infused apples. The clever technique of adding the topping during the final cooking stage ensures you still get that essential crispy texture while enjoying all the convenience of your slow cooker.
10. Apple Crisp Cheesecake Bars
These decadent bars brilliantly combine two beloved desserts into one irresistible treat. A buttery graham cracker crust supports a creamy layer of cheesecake, topped with cinnamon-spiced apples and a crunchy oat streusel. The contrast between the tangy cheesecake and sweet-spiced apples creates a perfect harmony of flavors that’s sure to become a fall favorite for potlucks and holiday gatherings.
11. Brown Butter Sage Apple Crisp
This sophisticated twist on apple crisp introduces the nutty depth of brown butter and the subtle earthiness of fresh sage for a dessert that bridges the gap between sweet and savory. The brown butter adds caramel notes that complement the apples perfectly, while the sage infuses a gentle herbaceous quality that elevates this crisp to gourmet status. Ideal for impressing dinner guests who appreciate unique flavor combinations.
12. Miso Caramel Apple Crisp
For adventurous bakers ready to try something truly innovative, this miso caramel apple crisp delivers an unforgettable umami twist. The mild white miso paste enhances the caramel sauce with a subtle savory complexity that perfectly balances the sweetness of the apples. This Japanese-inspired fusion creates depth of flavor that will have your guests wondering about your secret ingredient.
13. Sharp Cheddar Apple Crisp
This New England-inspired apple crisp honors the classic pairing of sharp cheddar cheese with apple pie. The topping incorporates shredded aged cheddar that melts and crisps up beautifully, creating a savory-sweet contrast that’s absolutely addictive. The slight saltiness of the cheese highlights the natural sweetness of the apples for a dessert that’s sure to become a conversation starter at your next gathering.
14. Rosemary Apple Crisp
This unexpected herb addition transforms traditional apple crisp into something truly special. The piney, aromatic quality of fresh rosemary infuses the filling with a subtle woodsy note that perfectly complements the sweet apples and warming spices. It’s sophisticated enough for a dinner party finale but simple enough to prepare for a weeknight treat when you want something a little different.
15. Rose Water Apple Crisp
This Middle Eastern-inspired apple crisp introduces the delicate floral notes of rose water for an elegant and unexpected twist. Just a few drops of this aromatic essence transforms the familiar dessert into something exotic and memorable. Paired with cardamom and a touch of honey, this sophisticated version feels like a special occasion dessert while remaining wonderfully simple to prepare.
16. Fig and Apple Crisp
This sophisticated fruit pairing combines the honeyed sweetness of fresh figs with crisp apples for a dessert that feels both rustic and elegant. The figs break down slightly during baking, creating pockets of intense jammy sweetness throughout the filling that contrasts beautifully with the tart apples. With a hint of orange zest in the topping, this Mediterranean-inspired crisp is perfect for early fall when both fruits are at their peak.
17. Cranberry Orange Apple Crisp
This vibrant, festive crisp brings together the tartness of fresh cranberries with sweet apples and bright orange zest for a dessert that’s perfect from Thanksgiving through the holiday season. The cranberries add a beautiful ruby color and burst of acidity that balances the sweetness of the dish, while the orange adds a sunny brightness. The resulting dessert is as visually stunning as it is delicious.
18. Gingerbread Apple Crisp
This holiday-inspired apple crisp captures all the warm, spicy flavors of classic gingerbread in the crumbly topping. With molasses, ginger, cloves, and a hint of black pepper, this dessert fills your home with the quintessential aroma of Christmas baking. The bold spices create a perfect counterpoint to the sweet-tart apples beneath, making this a standout dessert for winter gatherings.
19. Buckwheat Apple Crisp
This nutritious twist on apple crisp incorporates buckwheat flour into the topping for a nutty, earthy flavor and added protein. Despite its name, buckwheat is gluten-free and adds a rustic, wholesome quality to the dessert that pairs beautifully with the sweet-tart apples. The unique topping creates a wonderfully textured crisp that’s a little more substantial and satisfying than traditional versions.
20. Cornmeal Streusel Apple Crisp
The addition of stone-ground cornmeal to this streusel topping creates an incredible textural contrast and subtle sweetness that makes this apple crisp truly special. The cornmeal adds a pleasant grittiness and golden color while contributing a gentle corn flavor that complements the apples beautifully. This Southern-inspired variation is particularly delicious served warm with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream.
21. Brûléed Apple Crisp
This show-stopping dessert combines the best elements of crème brûlée and apple crisp for an unforgettable finale to any meal. After the crisp is baked, a sprinkle of sugar is caramelized with a kitchen torch to create a crackling, glass-like surface that shatters satisfyingly with each spoonful. The contrast of textures—crisp caramelized top, crunchy oat streusel, and tender apples—makes this a truly special dessert experience.
22. Coconut Flake Apple Crisp
This tropical twist on classic apple crisp adds toasted coconut flakes to the oat topping for an unexpected flavor dimension and extra crunch. The subtle sweetness and nutty quality of the coconut pairs surprisingly well with the cinnamon-spiced apples, creating a fusion dessert that bridges traditional fall flavors with island-inspired elements. It’s a wonderful choice for breaking out of your apple crisp routine.
23. Gingersnap Cookie Apple Crisp
This clever shortcut crisp uses crushed gingersnap cookies as the base for its topping, adding intense spice flavor and a delightful crunch with minimal effort. The zippy ginger bite contrasts beautifully with the sweet apples, while butter and oats help bind the cookie crumbs into perfect clusters. It’s an excellent option when you’re short on time but still want a dessert that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.
24. White Chocolate Macadamia Apple Crisp
This indulgent variation takes inspiration from the beloved cookie flavor, incorporating chopped macadamia nuts and white chocolate chunks into the streusel topping. As it bakes, the white chocolate melts slightly into the crumble, creating pockets of creamy sweetness that contrast beautifully with the buttery nuts and tart apples. The result is a luxurious dessert that feels truly special occasion-worthy.
25. Maple Walnut Apple Crisp
This quintessentially New England dessert highlights the region’s beloved maple syrup, using it to sweeten both the apple filling and the walnut-studded topping. The deep, complex sweetness of real maple syrup elevates the entire dessert, while toasted walnuts add satisfying crunch and a pleasant bitterness that balances the sweetness. Serve this after a fall dinner for a truly seasonal finale.
26. Paleo Apple Crisp
This grain-free, refined sugar-free version proves that dietary restrictions don’t mean missing out on delicious desserts. Using a blend of almond and coconut flours for the topping and sweetening with natural maple syrup and coconut sugar, this paleo-friendly apple crisp delivers all the flavor and comfort of the traditional version. It’s perfect for entertaining guests with various dietary needs without requiring separate desserts.
27. Lower Calorie Apple Crisp
This lightened-up version reduces sugar and butter without sacrificing the essential elements that make apple crisp so satisfying. By relying more heavily on the natural sweetness of ripe apples and using techniques like replacing some butter with applesauce in the topping, this dessert comes in at under 250 calories per serving. It’s perfect for those who are mindful of their calorie intake but still want to enjoy seasonal treats.
28. Deconstructed Apple Crisp Parfait
This elegant presentation reimagines apple crisp as a layered parfait, perfect for dinner parties or when you want a more sophisticated dessert. Spiced apple compote, vanilla custard, and crispy oat clusters are layered in clear glasses for a visually stunning treat that highlights each component. The individual servings make portion control easy, and the components can be prepared ahead of time for stress-free entertaining.
29. Apple Crisp Stuffed Baked Apples
These show-stopping individual desserts combine the appeal of baked apples with the deliciousness of apple crisp. Hollowed-out apples become edible vessels filled with a spiced apple filling and topped with a buttery oat crumble. As they bake, the apple shells soften while maintaining their shape for a fun, interactive dessert that’s perfect for dinner parties and special occasions.
30. Yuzu Apple Crisp
This Japanese-inspired apple crisp incorporates yuzu—a citrus fruit with complex floral, tangy notes—for a bright, unexpected twist on the classic dessert. The yuzu zest and juice add a sophisticated dimension that elevates the entire dish, while traditional warming spices ensure it still feels comfortingly familiar. It’s a fantastic option for adventurous eaters looking to experience new flavor combinations.
31. Turmeric Ginger Apple Crisp
This wellness-inspired apple crisp incorporates anti-inflammatory turmeric and zingy fresh ginger for a dessert that’s as beneficial as it is delicious. The golden hue from the turmeric adds visual appeal, while its earthy flavor is balanced perfectly by the warmth of ginger and sweetness of the apples. It’s a wonderful way to incorporate these healing spices into your diet in a form that feels like a true treat.
32. Black Sesame Apple Crisp
This striking dessert uses black sesame seeds in the topping for a dramatic presentation and nutty, slightly bitter flavor that creates a sophisticated contrast with sweet apples. The toasted black sesame adds an unexpected but delightful dimension that will intrigue even the most experienced dessert connoisseurs. This Asian-inspired version is perfect for when you want to surprise guests with a unique twist on a familiar favorite.
33. Apple Cider Glazed Apple Crisp
This double-apple dessert intensifies the flavor by reducing fresh apple cider into a sticky, concentrated glaze that’s drizzled over the finished crisp. The tart-sweet cider reduction adds another layer of apple goodness and creates a bakery-worthy presentation. The contrast between the glossy glaze, crunchy topping, and tender baked apples results in a multi-dimensional dessert that truly celebrates apple season.
34. Bourbon Bacon Apple Crisp
This bold, adventurous dessert incorporates crispy bacon bits into the streusel topping and a splash of bourbon in the filling for a sophisticated sweet-savory experience. The smoky, salty bacon adds an unexpected but delicious contrast to the sweet apples, while the bourbon contributes caramel notes and a gentle warmth. It’s the perfect dessert for those who love to explore the boundaries between sweet and savory.
35. Pistachio Cardamom Apple Crisp
This Middle Eastern-inspired apple crisp combines the floral notes of cardamom with the rich, buttery flavor of pistachios for an exotic twist on the classic dessert. The vibrant green nuts add beautiful color, texture, and a unique flavor that sets this crisp apart from more traditional versions. A touch of rose water in the filling completes this elegant dessert that’s sure to become a new favorite.
36. Pear Quince Apple Crisp
This sophisticated autumn fruit medley brings together three complementary pome fruits: crisp apples, tender pears, and aromatic quince. The quince adds a floral, almost tropical perfume to the dessert that elevates it to something truly special, while its slightly firmer texture creates a pleasant contrast with the softer fruits. This is a wonderful way to showcase quince during its brief seasonal appearance.
37. Apple Crisp Bread Pudding
This clever hybrid dessert combines the custardy richness of bread pudding with the spiced fruit and crumbly topping of apple crisp. Chunks of artisan bread soak up a cinnamon-vanilla custard before being layered with sautéed apples and topped with a classic oat streusel. The result is a decadent, comforting dessert with multiple textures and flavors that’s perfect for brunch or dessert.
38. Spiced Rum Apple Crisp
This Caribbean-inspired apple crisp infuses the filling with warm spiced rum for a dessert that feels like a tropical vacation. The rich vanilla, caramel, and spice notes from the rum complement the apples beautifully, while a touch of lime zest adds brightness. As the alcohol cooks off, it leaves behind complex flavors that transform this into a sophisticated dessert perfect for adult gatherings.
39. Chai Latte Apple Crisp
This cozy dessert captures all the familiar flavors of your favorite coffee shop chai latte in dessert form. The apple filling is infused with a blend of black tea and traditional chai spices—cardamom, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and black pepper—for a warming, aromatic experience. A splash of cream in the filling adds richness reminiscent of a latte, making this the perfect accompaniment to an afternoon cup of tea.
40. Pumpkin Spice Apple Crisp
This fall favorite combines two seasonal classics—apple crisp and pumpkin spice—for the ultimate autumn dessert. The traditional apple filling is enhanced with pumpkin pie spice blend, while the topping incorporates a layer of pumpkin butter for added flavor and moisture. It’s like enjoying pumpkin pie and apple crisp in the same dessert, perfect for those who can never decide between fall favorites.
41. Candied Ginger Apple Crisp
This zesty variation incorporates chopped candied ginger into both the filling and topping for bursts of sweet heat throughout the dessert. The chewy bits of crystallized ginger add texture and an intense spiciness that contrasts beautifully with the sweet apples and buttery topping. This sophisticated twist is perfect for ginger lovers who appreciate the complexity it adds to this classic comfort dessert.
42. Chocolate Hazelnut Apple Crisp
This indulgent dessert adds chocolate hazelnut spread to the traditional oat topping for a Nutella-inspired twist that will delight chocolate lovers. The rich, nutty flavor pairs surprisingly well with the tart-sweet apples beneath, creating a dessert that feels special enough for celebrations. As it bakes, the chocolate becomes melty and gooey, creating irresistible pockets of flavor throughout the crispy topping.
43. Almond Flour Apple Crisp (Oat-Free)
This grain-free version is perfect for those avoiding oats but still craving the comfort of apple crisp. The topping combines almond flour, sliced almonds, and a touch of coconut for a delightfully crispy texture without traditional oats. The nutty flavor of the almond flour complements the apples beautifully, creating a dessert that’s not just an alternative but a delicious option in its own right.
44. Honey Lavender Apple Crisp
This elegantly floral dessert infuses local honey with dried lavender for a sophisticated sweetener that flavors both the filling and topping. The subtle lavender notes add a gentle complexity that elevates this dessert beyond the ordinary, making it perfect for spring and summer gatherings. Using floral honey varieties like orange blossom or wildflower enhances the botanical quality of this refined crisp.
45. Rosemary Infused Honeycrisp Apple Crisp
This sophisticated dessert specifically calls for sweet-tart Honeycrisp apples and infuses them with fresh rosemary for an herbaceous dimension that transforms the familiar into something extraordinary. The rosemary’s piney notes complement the natural honey-like sweetness of the Honeycrisp apples, creating an elevated dessert that’s perfect for dinner parties or holiday gatherings when you want to impress without complicated techniques.
46. Maple Bourbon Apple Crumble
This luxurious dessert combines pure maple syrup and a splash of quality bourbon for a sophisticated spin on apple crisp. The maple adds deep caramel notes while the bourbon contributes vanilla and oak undertones that complement the apples perfectly. The filling becomes almost pudding-like beneath the buttery, golden topping, creating a dessert that feels special enough for celebrations yet simple enough for any fall evening.
47. Apple Crisp Donut Holes
These innovative bite-sized treats transform the flavors of apple crisp into portable, poppable donut holes—perfect for brunches, parties, or anytime snacking. The cinnamon-spiced dough contains pieces of fresh apple, while the crisp topping elements become a crunchy coating that’s rolled onto the warm donuts after frying. They capture all the beloved flavors of apple crisp in a fun, handheld format that’s sure to delight guests of all ages.
48. Apple Pie Spiced Apple Crisp
This dessert offers the perfect compromise for those torn between apple pie and apple crisp. It incorporates the classic apple pie spice blend—cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and cardamom—in perfect proportions for a familiar, nostalgic flavor, but skips the fussy pie crust in favor of a quick and easy oat topping. It delivers all the flavor of traditional apple pie with the convenience and textural contrast of a crisp.
49. Spiced Pear Apple Crisp
This autumn fruit combination brings together the best of both worlds—crisp, tart apples and soft, fragrant pears—for a dessert with beautiful textural contrast. The pears break down slightly more during baking, creating pockets of silky smoothness among the more structured apple pieces. A touch of star anise in the spice blend adds a subtle licorice note that enhances both fruits in this elegant, seasonal dessert.
50. Apple Crisp No Oats
This alternative version is perfect for those who love apple crisp but don’t care for the traditional oat topping. Instead, it features a streusel-style crumble made from flour, brown sugar, and plenty of butter for a texture reminiscent of shortbread cookies. The result is a more delicate, sandy topping that melts in your mouth while still providing the perfect contrast to the tender spiced apples beneath.
Apple Crisp for Every Taste and Occasion
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dessert, an impressive dinner party finale, or accommodating special dietary needs, this collection of 50 apple crisp recipes truly offers something for everyone. From traditional classics to innovative global-inspired variations, these recipes prove that apple crisp is one of the most versatile desserts in your repertoire.
I’d love to hear which version you try first! Are you drawn to the familiar comfort of a classic apple crisp, or are you excited to experiment with unexpected flavors like miso caramel or black sesame? Drop a comment below sharing your favorite or how you personalize your own apple crisp at home.
Don’t forget to bookmark this page for easy reference throughout apple season. With so many delicious variations, you could try a different apple crisp every week from fall through winter and never repeat a recipe. Happy baking!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best apples to use in apple crisp?
For the best apple crisp, use a mixture of apple varieties to create complexity in flavor and texture. Firm-tart apples like Granny Smith, Braeburn, or Honeycrisp hold their shape during baking, while softer varieties like Golden Delicious or Jonagold break down more, creating a perfect contrast. Using 2-3 different apple types in one crisp will give you the most interesting result.
Can I make apple crisp ahead of time?
Absolutely! Apple crisp can be assembled up to 24 hours before baking. Prepare the filling and topping, assemble in your baking dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove from the refrigerator while your oven preheats, then bake as directed, adding 5-10 minutes to the baking time. For longer storage, freeze unbaked crisp for up to 3 months and bake from frozen.
Why is my apple crisp topping soggy instead of crispy?
A soggy topping usually results from too much moisture or improper baking. Make sure your topping has enough butter to coat the dry ingredients, creating those essential crispy crumbles. Also, don’t cover the crisp during baking, as trapped steam will soften the topping. If your crisp sits too long before serving, the topping can absorb moisture from the filling—reheat uncovered in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes to re-crisp before serving.
What’s the difference between apple crisp, apple crumble, and apple cobbler?
These similar desserts differ mainly in their toppings. Apple crisp features a streusel topping that typically includes oats, which crisp up during baking. Apple crumble has a similar topping but traditionally without oats, resulting in a sandier texture. Apple cobbler is topped with a biscuit or cake-like batter that rises and creates a “cobbled” appearance when baked. All three showcase the same delicious spiced apple filling underneath their distinctive toppings.
