Pikes Peak Apple Crisp
A warm, comforting apple crisp with cinnamon, brown sugar, and buttery topping, perfect for cozy gatherings and showcasing fresh apples' natural sweetness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place peeled and sliced apples in an 8 to 10-inch pie pan.
- In a separate bowl, combine sugar, brown sugar, flour, oatmeal, cinnamon, sugar, lemon juice, and optional Amaretto.
- Pour the mixture over the apples, covering them evenly.
- Cover the apples with the topping mixture.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour until bubbly and golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or swapping in different apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for a mix of tart and sweet. If you don't have Amaretto, almond extract can be a great substitute. Make sure to adjust the sugar levels depending on the sweetness of your apples. Remember to let the crisp cool slightly before serving for better slicing.
Serving Suggestions
This Pikes Peak Apple Crisp is best served warm, topped with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. It pairs beautifully with Fruited Rice as a refreshing side. For a fun twist, try drizzling caramel sauce over the top before serving. Enjoy it as a comforting dessert at family gatherings or cozy evenings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 30-60 seconds, or warm the entire dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful treat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pikes Peak Apple Crisp contains roughly 579 calories, with 12g protein, 112g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (94% of the Daily Value), iron (58% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (47% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1351mg per serving (59% of the Daily Value).
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 frozen apples for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen apples, but make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture in the crisp. If using frozen apples, you may need to bake a little longer to ensure they are heated through and the topping is crispy.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version of this apple crisp, substitute the regular flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that your oats are labeled gluten-free as well, to avoid cross-contamination.
What type of apples are best for apple crisp?
The best apples for apple crisp are those that hold their shape while baking, such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn. A combination of sweet and tart varieties will enhance the overall flavor of the crisp.
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).