This Bourbon Apple Crisp is a warm, comforting dessert made with sweet apples and a crunchy topping. The touch of bourbon adds a special twist that really shines!
Honestly, who can resist that golden, crispy topping? I always find myself sneaking a spoonful while it cools. Serve it warm with ice cream for a treat that can’t be beat! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples are perfect for their balance of tartness and sweetness. If you prefer something sweeter, Fuji or Gala apples work great too! You can even mix different varieties for deeper flavor.
Bourbon: The bourbon adds a unique depth to the flavor. If you’re avoiding alcohol, feel free to replace it with apple cider or a splash of vanilla extract instead.
Brown Sugar: Using both granulated and brown sugar gives a richer taste. You can swap granulated sugar with coconut sugar for a healthier option. Just remember, the color might be a bit darker!
Butter: Unsalted butter is the go-to, but if you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using coconut oil or vegan butter in the same amount for a different twist.
How Do You Get the Crisp Topping Just Right?
Achieving the perfect crisp topping is key to making this apple crisp delicious! Here’s how to ensure it’s neatly crumbly:
- Keep the butter chilled. Cold butter helps create that nice flaky texture.
- Mix the dry ingredients well before adding butter. This distributes the sugars and oats evenly.
- When mixing in the butter, use your fingertips to break it up. You’re looking for a texture like coarse crumbs, not a dough.
- Don’t overmix! You want some butter pieces to remain to ensure a crispy topping.
With these tips, you’ll have a crunchy topping that contrasts beautifully with the soft, sweet apples underneath. Happy baking!
How to Make Bourbon Apple Crisp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Apple Filling:
- 6 large apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and sliced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp bourbon
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Crisp Topping:
- 3/4 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
For Serving:
- Vanilla ice cream (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Bourbon Apple Crisp takes about 15-20 minutes for preparation and 40-45 minutes for baking. In total, you’ll need around 1 hour to enjoy this delicious dessert right out of the oven!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that warms up, grab a 9×9 inch baking dish and lightly grease it with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Apple Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, toss together the sliced apples, granulated sugar, 1/4 cup brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, bourbon, and vanilla extract. Make sure all the apple slices are well coated in the mixture! Once done, pour the apple mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
3. Make the Crisp Topping:
In a separate medium bowl, combine the rolled oats, flour, 1/2 cup brown sugar, and salt. Then, add in the cold, cubed butter. Using your fingers (or a pastry cutter if you have one), mix the butter into the dry ingredients until it forms a crumbly texture that resembles coarse crumbs. Be careful not to overmix—some small butter pieces will add flavor and crunch.
4. Assemble the Dish:
Take your crispy topping and sprinkle it evenly over the apple mixture in the baking dish. Try to cover the apples as much as you can; this is what creates that delicious crunch!
5. Bake It Up:
Pop the dish into the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. You’re looking for a golden-brown topping and bubbly, soft apples. It will smell amazing!
6. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, let the crisp cool slightly before serving. It’s best enjoyed warm, and if you like, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for a delightful combination!
Enjoy the warm, fragrant, and lightly boozy Bourbon Apple Crisp with its crunchy oat topping and creamy ice cream melt!
Can I Use Different Types of Apples?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are great choices, you can experiment with other varieties. Fuji, Gala, or a mix of your favorites will also work well. Just keep in mind that the flavor may change slightly depending on the apples you choose!
Can I Make This Dessert Gluten-Free?
Yes! To make this Bourbon Apple Crisp gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend and ensure your oats are certified gluten-free. The texture and flavor will be just as delightful!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until warmed through. You can also use the microwave, but the oven helps maintain the crispiness of the topping!
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the apple filling and topping separately, then assemble and bake just before you’re ready to eat. If you prepare it ahead, keep the topping in the refrigerator to ensure it stays firm before baking.
