Cozy Warm Apple Crisp with Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream Bliss

 

Ingredients:

For the Apple Filling:

• 6 medium-sized apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp recommended), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch (optional, for a thicker filling)

For the Crisp Topping:

• 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional; pecans or walnuts work well)

For Serving:

• Vanilla ice cream (2-3 scoops per serving)
  
  
  

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish or a similarly sized oven-safe dish.

2. Prepare the Apple Filling:

   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced apples with the granulated sugar, brown sugar, lemon juice, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, salt, and vanilla extract.
   • Toss the mixture until the apples are well coated. If you prefer a thicker filling, sprinkle in the cornstarch and mix until it's evenly distributed.
   • Pour the apple mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.

3. Make the Crisp Topping:

   • In another mixing bowl, combine the oats, flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and salt.
   • Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry mixture. Using a pastry cutter, fork, or your hands, mix until the topping resembles coarse crumbs. It’s okay if there are some larger chunks of butter—they will melt and create a deliciously crispy texture.
   • If using, stir in the chopped nuts.

4. Assemble the Crisp:

   • Evenly sprinkle the crisp topping over the apple mixture, ensuring the apples are fully covered.

5. Bake:

   • Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are bubbling around the edges.

6. Serve:

• Remove the apple crisp from the oven and let it cool slightly, about 10 minutes.
• Serve warm, topped with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream.

     Nutrition Chart per Serving                     (Assuming 8 Servings)

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	430 kcal	21.5%
Total Fat	18g	23%
Saturated Fat	10g	50%
Trans Fat	0g	0%
Cholesterol	45mg	15%
Sodium	150mg	7%
Total Carbohydrates	65g	24%
Dietary Fiber	4g	14%
Sugars	45g	-
Protein	3g	6%
Vitamin A	-	10%
Vitamin C	-	8%
Calcium	-	6%
Iron	-	8%

• % Daily Value is based on a 2,000-calorie diet.
• The chart provides an overview of the essential nutrients in each serving of Warm Apple Crisp with Vanilla Ice Cream.

Serving Suggestions for Warm Apple Crisp with Vanilla Ice Cream:

1. Drizzle with Caramel Sauce: Enhance the flavor by drizzling warm caramel sauce over the apple crisp before adding the ice cream. The caramel adds a rich, buttery sweetness that pairs perfectly with the tartness of the apples.

2. Sprinkle with Cinnamon Sugar: For an extra touch of warmth, sprinkle a mixture of cinnamon and sugar over the ice cream just before serving. This adds a bit of crunch and amplifies the cinnamon flavor in the dessert.

3. Add Fresh Fruit: Serve the apple crisp with a side of fresh berries, such as raspberries or blueberries, to add a burst of freshness and color. The tartness of the berries complements the sweet apple filling.

4. Top with Whipped Cream: For an indulgent treat, add a dollop of freshly whipped cream on top of the ice cream. You can even flavor the whipped cream with a hint of vanilla or cinnamon.

5. Pair with a Hot Beverage: Serve the apple crisp with a cup of spiced tea, hot apple cider, or a chai latte. The warm, spiced flavors of the drink will enhance the comforting feel of the dessert.

6. Serve in Individual Ramekins: For a more elegant presentation, bake and serve the apple crisp in individual ramekins or small baking dishes. This makes for a great dinner party dessert and ensures everyone gets their own perfectly crispy portion.

7. Add a Crunchy Nut Topping: Before serving, sprinkle some toasted nuts like pecans or walnuts on top of the ice cream. This adds an extra layer of texture and flavor that complements the softness of the apples and the creaminess of the ice cream.

These suggestions can elevate your apple crisp experience, making it even more delightful for you and your guests!