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Sharp Cheddar Apple Crisp pinterest

Sharp Cheddar Apple Crisp

This unexpected yet historically significant flavor duo of sharp cheddar and apples creates a taste experience that's "surprisingly addictive." The marriage of melted sharp cheddar with cinnamon-spiced apples creates a dessert that's both familiar and excitingly different, balancing sweetness, tartness, and umami in perfect harmony.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Cooling Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 8 servings
Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

  • 8x8-inch baking dish or 9-inch pie plate
  • Pastry Cutter

Ingredients
  

Apple Filling

  • 6 medium Granny Smith apples about 2 pounds, peeled, cored, and sliced ¼-inch thick
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Cheddar Crumble Topping

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
  • 1/2 cup light brown sugar packed
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 8 tablespoons unsalted butter cold and cubed (1 stick)
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese shredded (aged 18-24 months for optimal flavor)

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Position the rack in the middle of the oven for even heat distribution. Butter an 8×8-inch baking dish or 9-inch pie plate.
  • In a large bowl, toss the sliced apples with lemon juice to prevent browning. Add the granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Gently mix until all apple slices are evenly coated with the mixture.
  • In a medium bowl, combine the flour, oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Whisk these dry ingredients thoroughly to eliminate any lumps in the brown sugar.
  • Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to work it into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with some pea-sized butter pieces remaining.
  • Gently fold in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese to the crumble mixture. Using your fingers, lightly toss to distribute the cheese evenly without compacting the mixture.
  • Transfer the apple filling to your prepared baking dish, creating an even layer. Sprinkle the cheddar crumble topping evenly over the apples, making sure to cover the entire surface.
  • Bake for 40-45 minutes until the topping is golden brown and the apple filling is bubbling around the edges.
  • Allow the crisp to cool for at least 10 minutes before serving. This resting period is crucial as it allows the filling to set and the flavors to meld together.

Notes

- Using freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded provides better melting and flavor integration.
- The crisp can be stored at room temperature for up to 24 hours, covered with foil.
- Refrigerate leftovers for 4-5 days. The flavor actually improves after 24 hours.
- For a healthier version, reduce sugar amounts, substitute whole wheat flour for half the all-purpose flour, and reduce butter to 6 tablespoons.
- Serve warm with vanilla ice cream, as a brunch option, or as an alternative to a traditional cheese course.

Nutrition

Calories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 42gProtein: 5gFat: 16gSaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 230mgFiber: 3gSugar: 25gCalcium: 10mgIron: 6mg
Keyword Apple Crisp, Cheddar Apple Crisp, Savory Dessert, Fall Dessert
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