Introduction
As the crisp air and vibrant foliage signal the arrival of autumn, it’s time to cozy up with warm, comforting treats that celebrate the season’s bountiful harvest. One dish that perfectly captures the essence of autumn is the Sheet Pan Maple-Glazed Apple Crisp. Bursting with the sweet flavors of ripe apples and a comforting layer of crunchy oat topping, this recipe is not just a dessert—it’s a warm hug in a pan!
Easy to prepare and delightful to share, this sheet pan version simplifies the process, making it perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or even a quiet night in while you sip your favorite spiced cider. The natural sweetness of maple syrup elevates the traditional apple crisp, adding a hint of caramel flavor that pairs perfectly with the tartness of the apples. Topped with a golden brown, buttery oat and pecan crumble, this dish not only looks beautiful but also fills your home with an irresistible aroma that beckons everyone to the kitchen.
Whether you’re hosting friends for a cozy get-together or simply indulging in a little self-care, this Maple-Glazed Apple Crisp is sure to become a seasonal favorite. So, preheat your oven, gather those fresh apples, and let’s dive into this deliciously simple recipe that captures the heart and soul of autumn!
Ingredients
- 6 medium-sized apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup old-fashioned oats
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
- Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for serving (optional)
Instructions
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- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper for effortless cleanup.
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- In a large bowl, mix the sliced apples with maple syrup, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until the apples are evenly coated. Spread the apple combination onto the lined baking sheet in an even layer.
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- In another bowl, mix together the rolled oats, flour, brown sugar, melted butter, and walnuts (if desired) until you achieve a crumbly, cohesive mixture.
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- Distribute the oat mixture evenly over the apples on the baking sheet, ensuring they are well covered with the crisp topping.
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- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the apples are soft and the topping turns a golden brown and becomes crispy.
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- Take out of the oven and allow to cool for a few minutes. Serve warm, optionally pairing with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful finish.
- Prep Time: 15 min | Total Time: 50 min | Servings: 6
Key Ingredients
- Apples: 4-6 medium-sized apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and sliced
- Maple Syrup: 1/2 cup pure maple syrup for a natural sweetness and flavor
- Oats: 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats for a hearty and chewy texture
- Brown Sugar: 1/2 cup packed brown sugar to enhance the sweetness and provide richness
- All-Purpose Flour: 1/2 cup to combine with oats and sugar for the crisp topping
- Cinnamon: 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon for warm, cozy spice
- Nutmeg: 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg for an aromatic touch
- Salt: 1/4 teaspoon salt to balance out the sweetness
- Butter: 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted, to bind the topping together
- Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon for an added layer of flavor
- Chopped Nuts (optional): 1/2 cup (such as pecans or walnuts) for extra crunch and nutrition
Feel free to customize with dried fruits or a scoop of ice cream when serving!
Baking Process
Follow these steps to create a delectable Sheet Pan Maple-Glazed Apple Crisp that’s perfect for cozy autumn snacking:
Ingredients Preparation
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your dessert will bake evenly.
- Prepare the Apples: Wash, peel, and core about 6-8 medium-sized apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp). Slice them into thin wedges and place them in a large mixing bowl.
- Coat with Maple Syrup: Drizzle the sliced apples with approximately 1/4 cup of pure maple syrup. Add a tablespoon of lemon juice to enhance their natural flavors and prevent browning. Toss the apples gently to ensure they’re evenly coated.
Making the Crisp Topping
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix together 1 cup of rolled oats, 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. This combination will create a flavorful and crunchy topping.
- Incorporate Butter: Cut 1/2 cup of cold unsalted butter into small pieces and add it to the dry mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, work the butter into the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. You can also use coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
- Add Nuts (Optional): If desired, stir in 1/2 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts for added texture and flavor.
Assembling the Apple Crisp
- Prepare the Sheet Pan: Lightly grease a large baking sheet with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Layer the Apples: Spread the maple-coated apple slices evenly across the prepared sheet pan, ensuring they are well distributed.
- Top with Crisp Mixture: Sprinkle the oat mixture evenly over the apples, covering them completely. Press the topping down slightly to secure it.
Baking
- Bake: Place the sheet pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown and crispy.
- Cool: Once out of the oven, allow the crisp to cool for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This will enable the juices to thicken slightly.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve Warm: Enjoy your Sheet Pan Maple-Glazed Apple Crisp warm, ideally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. It’s a delightful way to celebrate the flavors of fall!
With this easy and straightforward baking process, you’ll create a comforting dessert that captures the essence of autumn in every bite. Happy baking!
Serving Suggestions
For a delightful autumn treat, pair your Sheet Pan Maple-Glazed Apple Crisp with a variety of accompaniments that will elevate the cozy flavors and make for an unforgettable snacking experience. Here are some serving suggestions:
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Scoops of Ice Cream: A classic pairing! Vanilla bean, caramel, or cinnamon ice cream drizzled with additional maple syrup will add a creamy contrast to the warm apple crisp.
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of freshly whipped cream on top of your apple crisp will enhance its richness. You can also sweeten the cream with a hint of maple or cinnamon for extra flavor.
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Greek Yogurt: For a healthier option, serve the crisp with a dollop of creamy Greek yogurt. The tanginess complements the sweetness of the apples beautifully.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzle some warm caramel sauce over the top for a decadent touch. It pairs wonderfully with the maple and adds an extra layer of sweetness.
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Nuts on Top: Sprinkle some toasted pecans or walnuts over each serving for added crunch and nutty flavor.
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Cheese Pairing: A slice of sharp cheddar cheese or a scoop of mascarpone on the side can provide a delicious contrast to the sweetness of the dish.
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Beverages: Complement your apple crisp with a hot beverage such as spiced cider, a cozy chai latte, or an espresso for a comforting snack break.
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Fall Fruits: Serve alongside other autumn fruits like pear slices or figs for a beautiful and seasonal presentation.
Feel free to mix and match these suggestions to create the perfect cozy snack moment as you enjoy your Sheet Pan Maple-Glazed Apple Crisp!
Conclusion
This Sheet Pan Maple-Glazed Apple Crisp is the perfect embodiment of cozy autumn snacking. With its warm, inviting aromas and a delightful crunch that pairs beautifully with the tender, juicy apples, it’s an easy yet impressive dish that brings the fall flavor right to your home. Whether you enjoy it as a comforting snack, a dessert after dinner, or a special treat during a cozy gathering, this crisp is sure to become a staple in your seasonal repertoire.
The combination of maple syrup adds a unique twist to the traditional recipe, elevating the dish with its rich sweetness while the oats provide a hearty texture. Plus, the beauty of cooking it on a sheet pan means that you can whip up a generous batch to share with family and friends—or keep it all for yourself!
Serve it warm, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, and savor the tastes of the season. So grab your favorite apples, preheat your oven, and let the autumn festivities begin with this delightful Sheet Pan Maple-Glazed Apple Crisp. Happy snacking!
