Gingersnap Cookie Apple Crisp
This Gingersnap Cookie Apple Crisp breaks all the rules of traditional apple crisp recipes by replacing the standard oat topping with spicy, crunchy gingersnap cookies for a flavor combination that's simply irresistible. The warming spices in the gingersnap cookies complement the natural sweetness of seasonal apples, creating a dessert that's both nostalgic and innovative.
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 40 minutes mins
Total Time 55 minutes mins
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 8 servings
Calories 285 kcal
Apple Filling
- 6 medium apples preferably a mix of Honeycrisp and Granny Smith
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Gingersnap Cookie Topping
- 2 cups gingersnap cookies crushed (approximately 25-30 cookies)
- 1/2 cup butter melted
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans optional
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x9-inch baking dish or a 10-inch cast-iron skillet.
Core, peel, and slice the apples into approximately 1/4-inch thick slices. Pro tip: Leave the peels on half the apples for added texture and fiber.
In a large bowl, gently toss the sliced apples with granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until evenly coated.
Arrange the seasoned apple mixture in your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly to ensure consistent baking.
Place gingersnap cookies in a food processor and pulse until coarsely crushed (or place them in a sealed bag and crush with a rolling pin for a more rustic texture).
In a medium bowl, combine the crushed gingersnap cookies, melted butter, brown sugar, chopped pecans (if using), and salt. The mixture should resemble wet sand that clumps together when pressed.
Sprinkle the gingersnap cookie mixture evenly over the apples, covering the entire surface. Gently press down without compacting too much.
Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apple filling is bubbling around the edges.
For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free gingersnap cookies and a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
For lower sugar, reduce sugars by half and add 1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon to enhance perceived sweetness.
For vegan version, replace butter with coconut oil or vegan butter alternative.
For the best texture recovery when reheating, use a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes rather than microwaving.
Calories: 285kcalCarbohydrates: 38gProtein: 2gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 210mgFiber: 3gSugar: 25g
Keyword Apple Crisp, Gingersnap Cookies, Fall Dessert, Apple Dessert