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–+ servings
Hasselback Apple Crisp 1

Hasselback Apple Crisp

This visually stunning dessert transforms ordinary baked apples into an extraordinary treat that's perfectly balanced with crispy edges, tender centers, and a buttery cinnamon-infused crumble topping that seeps into every crevice. Perfect for fall gatherings or holiday tables!
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 6 servings
Calories 385 kcal

Equipment

  • Baking Dish
  • Two Wooden Spoons or Chopsticks
  • Pastry Brush

Ingredients
  

For the Apples

  • 6 medium firm apples Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Braeburn work best
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar or coconut sugar for a less refined option
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1 pinch salt

For the Crisp Topping

  • 3/4 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour or almond flour for gluten-free option
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar packed
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter cubed
  • 1/3 cup chopped pecans or walnuts optional

Optional Serving Additions

  • vanilla ice cream
  • caramel sauce
  • whipped cream
  • fresh mint leaves

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Gather two wooden spoons or chopsticks and place them parallel to each other about 1 inch apart. These will serve as guides to prevent cutting completely through the apples.
  • Peel the apples completely. Slice off a small portion of the bottom of each apple so they sit flat in your baking dish. Place an apple between the wooden spoons or chopsticks and make thin, vertical cuts from top to bottom, approximately 1/8-inch apart. The guides will prevent you from cutting all the way through.
  • In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Brush this mixture generously over the apples, making sure to get between the slices. Place the prepared apples in a baking dish that fits them snugly.
  • In a medium bowl, mix together the oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Add the cold cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs with some pea-sized pieces remaining. Fold in the chopped nuts if using.
  • Sprinkle the crisp topping generously over and around the apples, allowing some to fall between the slices. Cover the dish loosely with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for 15-20 minutes until the apples are tender when pierced with a fork and the topping is golden brown.
  • Allow the dish to rest for 15 minutes after baking—this cooling period allows the flavors to meld and juices to thicken, improving the overall texture.
  • Serve warm with optional toppings such as vanilla ice cream, caramel sauce, or whipped cream.

Notes

- For deeper flavor complexity, try using a mix of apple varieties rather than just one type.
- Keep your butter cold for the topping and don't overmix—varying sizes of butter create perfect pockets of crispiness.
- For a healthier version, reduce the sugar by half and add 1/4 teaspoon of almond extract to enhance perceived sweetness.
- This dessert can be kept warm in a 200°F oven for up to 1 hour before serving.
- Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.

Nutrition

Calories: 385kcalCarbohydrates: 58gProtein: 3gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 42mgSodium: 172mgPotassium: 210mgFiber: 5gSugar: 38gVitamin C: 8mg
Keyword Hasselback Apples, Apple Crisp, Fall Dessert, Baked Apples
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