Tired of leftover desserts? Craving a warm, comforting treat but don't want a mountain of sweets? This recipe for apple crisp for two is the perfect solution! It’s a quick, easy, and delicious homemade dessert, ideal for a romantic night in, a quiet evening alone, or even a satisfying midday pick-me-up. This recipe offers a healthy twist on a classic, making it a perfect addition to your collection of easy recipes and healthy meals.
Ingredients:
For the Apple Filling:
- 2 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp recommended), peeled, cored, and sliced
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
For the Crisp Topping:
- 1/4 cup rolled oats
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a small oven-safe dish (approximately 6-inch diameter). This is a crucial step for easy cleanup and prevents sticking.
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Prepare the Apple Filling: In a bowl, gently toss the sliced apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and cornstarch. The lemon juice helps prevent browning and adds a lovely zing. The cornstarch thickens the apple filling beautifully.
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Assemble the Crisp: Pour the apple mixture into the prepared baking dish.
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Make the Topping: In a separate bowl, combine the oats, flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Cold butter is essential for a flaky topping.
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Top & Bake: Sprinkle the crisp topping evenly over the apple filling.
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Bake to Perfection: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are tender. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning. Every oven is a little different, so start checking around the 20-minute mark.
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Cool & Serve: Let the apple crisp cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream (optional, but highly recommended!).
Tips & Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of ginger or cardamom to the apple filling for an extra layer of flavor.
- Nutty Delight: Stir in 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts to the crisp topping for added crunch and flavor. This makes it a perfect recipe for using up leftover nuts.
- Make it Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free all-purpose flour and certified gluten-free oats for the topping.
- Adjust Sweetness: Reduce the amount of brown sugar if you prefer a less sweet crisp.
- Other Fruits: Feel free to experiment with other fruits like pears, berries, or peaches. Adjust baking time as needed depending on the fruit's moisture content.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Fat: 12-15g
- Carbohydrates: 35-40g
- Protein: 4-5g
Please note that nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
This easy apple crisp for two is the perfect recipe for a quick and delicious dessert. It’s a wonderful example of homemade cooking, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Whether you're looking for quick dinner ideas or a delightful treat, this recipe will surely satisfy your sweet tooth without overwhelming you with leftovers. Enjoy!