Autumn Crisp Recipe

Cook Time: 35 minutes

Ingredients

• Non-stick cooking spray
• Fruit:
  • 2 apples, cored and diced
  • 2 pears, cored and diced
  • cup raisins
  • cup chia seeds
  • cup apple cider
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• Topping:
  • cup quick-cooking oats
  • cup wheat germ
  • cup brown sugar
  • cup ground flax seed
  • cup whole wheat flour
  • 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
  • 5 tablespoons butter, softened

Directions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375F (190C). Lightly grease a glass baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.

Step 2: In the prepared baking dish, combine the diced apples, pears, raisins, and chia seeds. Drizzle the apple cider and maple syrup over the fruit mixture and gently stir to coat evenly.

Step 3: In a separate bowl, mix together the oats, wheat germ, brown sugar, flax seed, whole wheat flour, pumpkin pie spice, and cinnamon (if using).

Step 4: Add the softened butter to the dry mixture. Use a fork to mash and blend the butter until the mixture is uniform and crumbly.

Step 5: Spread the oat topping evenly over the fruit mixture in the baking dish. Cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil.

Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crisp.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrient	Amount	% Daily Value
Calories	613
Total Fat	25g	32%
Saturated Fat	10g	52%
Cholesterol	38mg	13%
Sodium	124mg	5%
Total Carbohydrate	94g	34%
Dietary Fiber	16g	55%
Total Sugars	56g
Protein	11g	21%
Vitamin C	8mg	9%
Calcium	159mg	12%
Iron	4mg	23%
Potassium	640mg	14%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

History and Origins of Autumn Crisp

The Autumn Crisp is a classic American dessert that epitomizes the flavors of fall. Combining apples, pears, and a hint of pumpkin pie spice, this dish brings together the best of the harvest season. Though crisps are a long-standing dessert tradition in the United States, this particular variation with its maple syrup and pumpkin pie spice profile is a modern adaptation that celebrates autumns rich bounty. Many food historians trace the crisps origins back to the British "crumble" or the Dutch "crisp," both of which were early forms of baked fruit desserts topped with a crumbly, buttery mixture. Over time, the American version evolved, incorporating local fruits and seasonal spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, eventually leading to the Autumn Crisp we enjoy today.

Regional Variations of Autumn Crisp

While the Autumn Crisp is beloved across the United States, certain regions have their own special twists on the recipe. In the Northeast, where apples are abundant, this dish is a frequent feature at harvest festivals and Thanksgiving tables. In the Pacific Northwest, pears are often the star of the dish, sometimes replacing apples entirely. Additionally, many regional variations incorporate locally sourced ingredients such as honey, local nuts, or even cranberries, giving the crisp a unique regional flavor profile. The use of whole grains like oats, wheat germ, and flax seed also reflects the growing trend of incorporating healthier alternatives in traditional desserts.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

At first glance, the Autumn Crisp might seem similar to other baked fruit desserts like apple crisp or crumble. However, what sets it apart is its complex flavor profile, thanks to the addition of pumpkin pie spice, which includes cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. The inclusion of pears alongside apples also provides a more nuanced taste and texture, adding a sweet, delicate softness to the dish. The crisp topping, made with oats, flax seeds, and wheat germ, is a healthier alternative to the typical flour-based topping found in many other crisps. This makes the Autumn Crisp both delicious and nutritious, appealing to those seeking a lighter dessert option with rich, seasonal flavors.

Where Is It Usually Served?

The Autumn Crisp is typically served as a comforting dessert during the fall and winter months, especially around Thanksgiving and other harvest celebrations. Its often served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top, making it a perfect choice for cozy gatherings. Many restaurants that focus on seasonal menus or farm-to-table dining feature variations of the crisp, celebrating local produce. Its also a favorite in homes, where families enjoy the easy preparation and delightful aroma of apples and pears baking in the oven.

Interesting Facts About Autumn Crisp

Did you know that apples and pears are two of the oldest cultivated fruits in the world? Theyve been enjoyed for thousands of years in different forms, from raw to cooked in various dishes like pies, crisps, and tarts. The Autumn Crisps topping, made of oats and flaxseed, not only provides a delicious crunch but also offers a healthy dose of fiber and omega-3 fatty acids. The dish also reflects the increasing interest in plant-based, whole-food desserts. Interestingly, chia seeds, another key ingredient, are known for their health benefits, such as improving digestion and heart health, making the Autumn Crisp not only a treat for your taste buds but also a nutritious option for those mindful of their diet.

FAQ about Autumn Crisp Recipe

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