Are you craving a warm, comforting dessert that's surprisingly simple to make? Look no further! This Apple Crisp with Cake Mix recipe is a delicious shortcut to a classic autumn treat. Forget complicated recipes and lengthy prep times; this easy recipe uses a yellow cake mix to create a buttery, crumbly topping that perfectly complements the sweet and tart apples. It's the perfect homemade dessert for busy weeknights or a delightful addition to your weekend baking plans. This recipe delivers a fantastic taste without sacrificing ease, making it a great choice for both beginner bakers and experienced cooks looking for a quick and delicious dessert.
Ingredients:
- 6 medium apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix are ideal), peeled, cored, and sliced
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1 box (15.25 ounces) yellow cake mix
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
- 1/2 cup rolled oats (optional, adds texture)
Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
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Prepare the Apples: In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Toss gently to coat the apples evenly.
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Assemble the Crisp: Pour the apple mixture into the prepared baking dish.
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Make the Crumble Topping: In a separate bowl, combine the melted butter and the yellow cake mix. If using, stir in the pecans/walnuts and oats. Mix until just combined – you want some texture in the topping.
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Top & Bake: Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the apples.
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Bake to Perfection: Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are tender. If the topping is browning too quickly, loosely cover the dish with aluminum foil for the last 15 minutes of baking.
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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!
Tips for the Best Apple Crisp:
- Apple Selection: Choose a mix of tart and sweet apples for the best flavor balance. Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are excellent choices.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing the crumble topping will result in a dense, less crispy topping. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet crisp, reduce the amount of sugar by 1-2 tablespoons.
- Spice it Up: Feel free to experiment with other spices like allspice or ginger.
Variations:
- Chocolate Apple Crisp: Add 1/2 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips to the crumble topping.
- Cranberry Apple Crisp: Add 1/2 cup of dried cranberries to the apple mixture.
- Streusel Topping: For a more traditional streusel topping, use a combination of flour, butter, brown sugar, and oats instead of the cake mix.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 300-350 (varies based on ingredients and serving size)
- This is an estimate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
This easy apple crisp recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a delicious homemade dessert without spending hours in the kitchen. It's a perfect quick dinner idea that's both satisfying and comforting – ideal for family gatherings or a cozy night in. The simple ingredients and straightforward instructions make this recipe accessible to everyone, whether you are a seasoned baker or just starting your culinary journey. So, grab your ingredients and get baking!