Skillet Apple Crisp with Buttery Oat Topping

Tender cinnamon apples and a crisp oat topping make this a simple dessert for fall evenings. A mix of tart and sweet apples gives the filling more depth. Bake it in a skillet and serve warm, with ice cream added only at the table.

Prep: 20 minutes · Cook: 45 minutes · Yield: 8 servings

Ingredients

• Butter, for the skillet
• 6 medium apples (about 2 1/2 pounds), peeled, cored and sliced 1/4 inch thick
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon, divided
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour (90 g)
• 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon fine salt
• 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
• Vanilla ice cream, optional

How to Make It

1. Heat the oven to 350°F. Butter a 10-inch oven-safe skillet or a 2-quart baking dish. Place it on a rimmed sheet pan to catch any drips.
2. Toss the sliced apples with lemon juice, granulated sugar, cornstarch, 1 teaspoon cinnamon and vanilla. Spread the filling evenly in the skillet.
3. Mix oats, flour, brown sugar, remaining cinnamon and salt. Work in the cold butter with your fingertips or a pastry cutter until the mixture forms uneven crumbs. Sprinkle evenly over the apples without pressing it down.
4. Bake for 40–50 minutes, until the topping is golden and the filling bubbles at the edges. Test an apple slice with a knife; it should be tender. If needed, cover loosely with foil and bake a little longer. Cool for 15 minutes before serving.

Tips for the Best Result

Granny Smith plus Honeycrisp is a useful combination. Keep the apple slices even for consistent cooking. Resting gives the juices time to thicken, so the filling is less runny when served.

Storage and Reheating

Cover and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Warm portions in a 350°F oven to refresh the topping. Store any ice cream separately.

Image: AI-generated serving illustration. Cooking times are approximate; use the texture and temperature cues above.