There’s nothing quite like the smell of cinnamon and sugar baking in the oven to make your home feel warm and inviting. And when that aroma is coming from a freshly baked cinnamon crisp, well, that’s just pure magic.
This recipe for How To Make Cinnamon Crisp is a family favorite, passed down through generations. It’s simple enough for even beginner bakers to master, yet it always impresses with its delicious flavor and satisfyingly crispy texture. Whether you’re craving a comforting dessert, a sweet treat for brunch, or a cozy snack to enjoy with a cup of coffee, this cinnamon crisp is sure to hit the spot.
Cinnamon Crisp: A Delicious History and Variations
The beauty of a cinnamon crisp lies in its simplicity. It’s a dish with humble beginnings, dating back to the days when pantry staples like flour, sugar, butter, and cinnamon were used to create simple yet satisfying desserts. Over time, variations emerged, with some recipes incorporating oats for a chewier texture, nuts for added crunch, or different fruits for a burst of flavor. But the core elements—the irresistible combination of cinnamon and sugar baked to a golden crisp—remain timeless.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crisp Topping:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup rolled oats (optional, for a chewier texture)
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling:
- 4 cups sliced apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a combination)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Equipment You’ll Need:
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Two mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
- Rubber spatula
Let’s Bake: A Step-by-Step Guide
Preparing the Crisp Topping:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, oats (if using), brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
- Drizzle the melted butter over the dry ingredients and use a fork or your fingers to work it in until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Preparing the Apple Filling:
- In a separate bowl, combine the sliced apples, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Toss to coat the apples evenly.
Assembling and Baking the Cinnamon Crisp:
- Pour the apple filling into your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the crisp topping evenly over the apples.
- Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are tender.
- Let the crisp cool for at least 15 minutes before serving. This allows the filling to set and prevents it from being too runny.