This Bourbon Apple Crisp is a warm, comforting dessert you’ll love! With tender apples, sweet cinnamon, and a crunchy topping, it’s simply irresistible. And the hint of bourbon adds a special touch!
There’s nothing quite like the smell of this baking in the oven. I often make it for friends, and they always go back for more. It’s a great excuse to enjoy a scoop of ice cream on top! 🍏🍦
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: Granny Smith apples are my favorite because they’re tangy and hold up well during baking. If you can’t find them, you can use Honeycrisp, Braeburn, or any tart apple. Mixing different apples can also create a richer flavor!
Bourbon: The bourbon gives a nice depth to the dish. If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, you can replace it with apple juice or apple cider, though the flavor will be different.
Nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans add extra crunch to the topping. If you have nut allergies or prefer a nut-free crisp, feel free to leave them out. You could also try adding some seeds for crunch!
Butter: Unsalted butter is the way to go for better control over saltiness. If you want a dairy-free option, coconut oil or a dairy-free butter substitute works well, though it may change the flavor slightly.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Crisp Topping?
The topping is crucial for a great apple crisp! Here are some tips to get it just right:
- Ensure your butter is cold. This helps create that crumbly texture you want. Cold butter doesn’t melt completely, allowing for that lovely crispness!
- Mix the dry ingredients first before adding butter. This helps distribute everything evenly.
- Don’t overwork the mixture when incorporating the butter. You’re looking for pea-sized clumps, which make for a crunchy topping.
Keep an eye on it while baking! If it’s browning too fast, you can cover it loosely with foil.
Bourbon Apple Crisp Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Apple Filling:
- 6 cups peeled, cored, and sliced apples (about 5-6 medium apples, preferably Granny Smith or a tart variety)
- 2 tablespoons bourbon whiskey
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
For the Crisp Topping:
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
For Serving:
- Vanilla ice cream (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Bourbon Apple Crisp takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus 40-45 minutes to bake. You’ll have plenty of time to get the kitchen smelling amazing while it bakes, and then it’s ready to enjoy warm!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with a little butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking. This ensures that after baking, your crisp will come out easily!
2. Prepare the Apple Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, toss your sliced apples with the bourbon, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Make sure everything is well mixed so the apples are evenly coated. Set this mixture aside to let the flavors combine.
3. Make the Crisp Topping:
In another bowl, combine the rolled oats, flour, brown sugar, chopped nuts (if you’re using them), cinnamon, and salt. Soften the cold butter, adding it in small pieces to your oat mixture. With your fingers or a pastry cutter, work the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture looks crumbly, with pea-sized clumps forming. This creates that delicious, crunchy topping!
4. Assemble the Dish:
Spread the apple mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Then, sprinkle the oat crumble evenly over the top of the apples, making sure to cover them well.
5. Bake:
Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you want the topping to be golden brown and the apples to be bubbling and tender.
6. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the crisp from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. This makes it easier to scoop. Serve warm with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream on top if you’d like!
Enjoy this comforting, warm Bourbon Apple Crisp with its delightful crunch and a hint of bourbon—a perfect end to any meal!
Can I Use Different Types of Apples?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples are ideal for their tartness, you can also use Honeycrisp, Braeburn, or a mix of your favorites to add complexity in flavor.
Can I Skip the Bourbon?
Yes, you can omit the bourbon if you prefer. Substitute it with apple juice or apple cider for a similar sweetness, though the depth of flavor will change a bit.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving to enjoy that comforting warmth again!
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the apple filling and crisp topping separately a day in advance. Assemble and bake when you’re ready to serve for a freshly baked taste!