This Maple Pecan Apple Crisp is a warm, comforting dessert that’s packed with juicy apples, crunchy pecans, and a touch of sweet maple syrup. It’s the perfect treat for any occasion!
The fun part? The lovely aroma of apples and spices fills the kitchen while it bakes. I can’t resist a scoop with vanilla ice cream on top. Honestly, who could say no to that? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a great balance against the sweet topping. Honeycrisp also works nicely! If they’re not available, try Fuji or Braeburn apples for a different flavor.
Maple Syrup: Pure maple syrup adds rich flavor, but if you’re out, you can substitute it with honey or agave syrup. Just keep in mind it’ll change the taste a bit!
Pecans: I love using pecans for their buttery flavor and crunch. If you have nut allergies, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds can be a nice crunchy alternative.
Butter: Use unsalted butter for control over saltiness. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, coconut oil or vegan butter work well, too.
How Do I Get the Best Oat Topping?
A great oat topping is essential for that satisfying crunch. Here’s how to nail it:
- Combine oats, flour, and brown sugar in a bowl. This mix gives you texture and flavor.
- Add melted butter and mix until it looks crumbly. Don’t over-mix; you want some chunky bits for a rustic feel.
- Stir in toasted pecans gently for an extra crunch. Toasting them enhances their flavor!
Spread the topping evenly over the apples before baking for a nice, even crisp. Enjoy the delightful aroma as it bakes!
Maple Pecan Apple Crisp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Apple Filling:
- 6 medium apples (about 3 pounds), peeled, cored, and sliced (preferably a tart variety like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Crisp Topping:
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour (can substitute part with whole wheat flour for nuttiness)
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup pecan halves or chopped pecans, lightly toasted
Optional Serving:
- Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Maple Pecan Apple Crisp takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 40-45 minutes to bake. Plus, it’s a great make-ahead dessert that can be served warm or chilled!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Then, lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or an oval casserole dish to prepare for the apple mix.
2. Prepare the Apples:
In a large mixing bowl, toss the peeled, cored, and sliced apples with maple syrup, lemon juice, 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon, nutmeg, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Make sure all the apples are nicely coated—this gives them flavor and helps them caramelize!
3. Spread the Apple Mixture:
Transfer the coated apple mixture into your greased baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
4. Make the Crisp Topping:
In another bowl, combine rolled oats, flour, brown sugar, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Stir gently. Add in the melted butter and mix until it resembles a crumbly texture. Finally, fold in the toasted pecans carefully so they stay nice and crunchy!
5. Assemble the Crisp:
Evenly sprinkle the oat and pecan topping over the apples to create a nice, generous layer. This will turn golden brown and crunchy during baking!
6. Bake Your Crisp:
Place the baking dish into your preheated oven. Bake for 40-45 minutes until the topping is golden brown and the apple filling is bubbly. It should smell amazing by now!
7. Cool and Serve:
Once it’s done, remove the crisp from the oven and let it cool for at least 10 minutes. This will help thicken the juices. Serve warm, and treat yourself (and others!) with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top if desired.
This Maple Pecan Apple Crisp has all the cozy comforts you need — warm apple filling, sweet maple syrup, and a crunchy topping. Enjoy every bite! 🍏✨
Can I Use Different Types of Apples in This Crisp?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are ideal for a balanced flavor, you can also use Fuji, Braeburn, or any other tart apples. Just avoid overly soft varieties to ensure your crisp holds up well during baking!
Is There a Way to Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes! To make this Maple Pecan Apple Crisp vegan, simply substitute the unsalted butter with coconut oil or vegan butter. Also, ensure you’re using a maple syrup that is labeled as vegan. This will maintain the delicious flavor and texture!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to reheat it, place it back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals.
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Definitely! You can prepare the apple filling and topping separately a day in advance. Store them in the fridge, then assemble and bake when you’re ready to serve. This is a convenient option for entertaining!
