Apple Walnut Crisp
A warm, comforting apple walnut crisp with fragrant cinnamon, topped with buttery, crunchy layers—perfect for cozy gatherings or a sweet ending to any meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spoon apple pie filling evenly into an ungreased 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking pan.
- Grate rind from lemon and sprinkle over the filling.
- Cut lemon in half and juice the halves.
- Drizzle lemon juice over the apple filling.
- Sprinkle with half of the ground cinnamon; pour dry cake mix evenly over the apples so it reaches all sides of the pan.
- Sprinkle remaining 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon over the cake mix.
- Sprinkle chopped walnuts over the top.
- Drizzle melted butter evenly over the entire pan.
- Bake until the top is golden, bubbly, and walnuts are browned, about 55 minutes.
- Remove from oven and let cool on a wire rack for 10 minutes.
- Serve warm, optionally topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider using fresh apples instead of canned for a more homemade taste. If you prefer, substitute pecans for walnuts for a different flavor. To enhance the spice, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or ginger. Ensure the butter is evenly drizzled to achieve a golden crisp top. Additionally, pairing this dish with a scoop of vanilla ice cream from 2 And 2 Ice Cream elevates the dessert experience.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Apple Walnut Crisp warm, optionally topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added creaminess. It pairs beautifully with coffee or chai tea for a delightful dessert experience. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a light salad or grilled chicken, which can balance the sweetness of the crisp.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for about 30-45 seconds or warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 10-15 minutes. This will help retain the crispness of the topping.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Apple Walnut Crisp contains roughly 326 calories, with 2g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (18% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 5g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh apples instead of canned apple pie filling?
Yes, you can use fresh apples! Slice about 6-8 medium apples, toss them with sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice to mimic the canned filling. This adds a homemade touch and allows for customization in sweetness.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free cake mix instead of the traditional yellow cake mix. Ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free, including the butter and walnuts, for a safe and delicious dessert.
What is the best way to serve leftovers?
Leftovers can be served cold, but for the best flavor, reheat them in the oven or microwave. Adding a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream enhances the dessert, making it just as enjoyable as when first baked.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).