Tired of overly sweet desserts that leave you feeling sluggish? Craving a warm, comforting treat without the guilt? Then look no further! This apple crisp recipe for two is the perfect solution. It's quick, easy, and delivers all the deliciousness of a classic apple crisp in a portion size ideal for a romantic night in or a satisfying solo indulgence. This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and makes a delightful healthy meal addition. Get ready to experience the joy of homemade cooking with this simple, yet satisfying dessert.
Ingredients:
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For the Filling:
- 1 medium apple (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp recommended), peeled, cored, and sliced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (or maple syrup for a healthier option)
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
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For the Crisp Topping:
- ¼ cup rolled oats
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 2 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Instructions:
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Prepare the Apples: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a small bowl, toss the sliced apples with lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and brown sugar (or maple syrup). Add the cornstarch and gently mix to combine. This prevents the apples from becoming mushy.
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Make the Crisp Topping: In a separate bowl, combine the rolled oats, flour, brown sugar, and nuts (if using). Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Cold butter is key for a flaky topping.
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Assemble and Bake: Pour the apple mixture into a small oven-safe dish (approximately 6-inch diameter). Sprinkle the crisp topping evenly over the apples.
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Bake to Perfection: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are tender. If the topping browns too quickly, loosely cover the dish with aluminum foil.
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Cool and Serve: Let the apple crisp cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt for an extra touch of deliciousness.
Tips for the Best Apple Crisp:
- Apple Selection: Choose firm, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best texture and flavor.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing the topping will result in a tough crust. Gently combine the ingredients until just incorporated.
- Baking Time: Oven temperatures can vary, so keep an eye on your apple crisp and adjust the baking time as needed.
- Spice it Up: Feel free to experiment with other spices like ginger or cardamom.
Variations:
- Berry Crisp: Substitute the apples with your favorite berries, such as blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries. Adjust the sugar accordingly depending on the sweetness of the berries.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend for the topping.
- Vegan Option: Substitute the butter with vegan butter or coconut oil.
Nutritional Information (Approximate, per serving):
- Calories: 250-300
- Fat: 12-15g
- Carbohydrates: 35-40g
- Protein: 4-5g
This delicious apple crisp recipe for two is the perfect balance of sweet and tart, crunchy and soft. It’s a quick, easy dessert recipe that's surprisingly healthy and satisfying. It’s perfect as a comforting treat or a delightful addition to a special dinner. Enjoy!