“Grate” Apple Crisp Recipe

Cook Time: 60 minutes

Its been a while since we last shared an apple crisp recipe, and although the apple part remains fairly traditional, Ive added a new twist to the topping. Instead of going with the usual, I decided to incorporate Grape Nuts cereal into the mix. These little crunchy nuggets bring a wonderful texture to the topping, making it the perfect complement to the sweet and tangy apple layer. This time, however, I focused on changing up the apple layer rather than the topping. As someone whos not a huge fan of large pieces of cooked apple, I opted for a grating method. Not only does this make the prep faster and easier, but it also transforms the apples into a delicious, sweet-tart apple jam. The result is a crisp thats even more irresistible, and I truly hope you give it a try!

Ingredients

For the apple layer:

• 6 apples
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 1 lemon, juiced
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon cornstarch
• 1/3 cup white sugar
• 1/3 cup packed brown sugar

For the topping:

• 1/2 cup rolled oats
• 1/2 cup Grape Nuts cereal
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup white sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup melted butter

Directions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375F (190C). Grease a shallow 2-quart baking dish generously with 2 tablespoons of butter, then set it aside.

Step 2: Grate the apples into a large bowl, then add the lemon juice, ground cinnamon, cornstarch, white sugar, and brown sugar. Mix everything thoroughly until the ingredients are well combined.

Step 3: Transfer the apple mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly to cover the bottom.

Step 4: In the same bowl, add the oats, Grape Nuts, all-purpose flour, white sugar, brown sugar, and melted butter. Stir everything together until the dry ingredients are evenly coated with the melted butter, forming a crumbly topping.

Step 5: Evenly spread the topping over the apples, covering the entire surface.

Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until the apple layer has thickened and is bubbling around the edges. The topping should be golden brown and crisp.

Step 7: Remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool slightly. You can serve it warm, or chill it in the refrigerator if you prefer a colder treat.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 364
• Total Fat: 15g (19% DV)
• Saturated Fat: 9g (46% DV)
• Cholesterol: 38mg (13% DV)
• Sodium: 98mg (4% DV)
• Total Carbohydrates: 59g (21% DV)
• Dietary Fiber: 4g (16% DV)
• Total Sugars: 43g
• Protein: 2g (4% DV)
• Vitamin C: 14mg (16% DV)
• Calcium: 32mg (2% DV)
• Iron: 1mg (5% DV)
• Potassium: 234mg (5% DV)

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

The History of Apple Crisp

Apple crisp, a beloved dessert in American cuisine, traces its roots back to the early 20th century. While the exact origin is debated, it is widely believed that the dish emerged in the United States as a simpler alternative to traditional pies. Early American cooks sought a dessert that required less labor, avoiding the meticulous task of making a pastry crust. The concept of topping baked fruit with a mixture of flour, sugar, butter, and sometimes oats evolved from English cobblers and crumbles, which were brought to America by settlers. The grate technique in the recipe above modernizes this tradition by finely grating apples, creating a jam-like consistency that enhances both flavor and texture.

Regional Variations

Apple crisp is particularly popular in the Northeastern United States, where apple orchards are abundant. In New England, the topping often includes oats and brown sugar, lending a hearty texture, while in the Midwest, some recipes incorporate cornflakes or Grape Nuts for added crunch. Southern adaptations sometimes add pecans or a hint of bourbon to the topping. Despite these regional differences, the essence remains the same: tender, sweetened apples beneath a crisp, buttery topping.

How It Differs from Similar Desserts

While apple crisp shares similarities with apple crumble and apple pie, there are key differences. Apple pie uses a full pastry crust and typically slices the fruit, whereas apple crisp features a streusel-like topping and can use grated or chopped apples. Unlike a crumble, which often uses a simpler flour-and-butter mixture, apple crisp frequently incorporates oats or cereals like Grape Nuts for texture. The grated apples in this recipe create a smoother, more uniform layer that almost melts into the topping, distinguishing it from chunkier variants.

Where Its Commonly Served

Apple crisp is a versatile dessert served across the United States. It often appears at family dinners, holiday gatherings such as Thanksgiving, and in casual cafs. Its simple preparation makes it a staple for weeknight desserts, while the addition of ice cream or whipped cream elevates it for special occasions. Some restaurants serve apple crisp warm in individual ramekins, highlighting the contrast between the hot, soft apple base and the crunchy topping.

Interesting Facts

• Grating apples, as seen in this recipe, is a modern twist that reduces prep time and creates a soft, cohesive filling.
• The addition of cereals like Grape Nuts is an inventive way to increase the toppings crunch and nutty flavor.
• Apple crisp gained popularity during the Great Depression, when simplicity and minimal ingredients were crucial.
• It has inspired numerous variations, including pear crisps, berry crisps, and gluten-free versions using almond flour or oats.
• Though traditionally baked in an oven, some modern adaptations use slow cookers or air fryers for convenience.

Apple crisp remains an enduring symbol of comfort food, balancing sweet, tart, and crunchy elements in a way that few desserts can match. The grate apple technique not only streamlines preparation but enhances flavor, making this dish a timeless favorite for both home cooks and professional chefs alike.

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