Apple Casserole is such a simple and comforting dessert, packed with tender baked apples and a sweet, crumbly topping. It’s the kind of dish that fills the kitchen with a lovely aroma of cinnamon and baked fruit, making it perfect for cozy family dinners or holiday gatherings.
I love making this casserole because it’s so easy to put together, and it always brings smiles to the table. One of my favorite things is to mix in a bit of nutmeg or a handful of chopped nuts into the topping for extra flavor and crunch. I also like to use a mix of tart and sweet apples to get a nice balance in every bite.
To serve, I enjoy a warm slice right out of the oven, sometimes with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top. It’s the kind of dessert that feels like a warm hug, and I find it’s a wonderful way to end any meal with a little homemade love.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: Using a mix of tart and sweet apples adds a great balance. Granny Smith offers tartness, while Fuji or Honeycrisp bring sweetness. If you can’t find these, Braeburn or Pink Lady work well too.
Oats & Pecans: Old-fashioned oats provide that nice chewy texture in the topping. For a nut-free version, try sunflower seeds or skip nuts entirely. Pecans add crunch and flavor, but walnuts are a tasty alternative.
Butter & Sugars: Butter gives the topping a rich taste and crisp finish. You can substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free option. Brown sugar adds moisture and depth; light or dark brown sugar both work fine.
Cinnamon & Lemon Juice: Cinnamon is a classic spice here, but adding a pinch of nutmeg or allspice can add warmth. Lemon juice keeps the apples from browning and adds a subtle tang.
How Do You Get The Topping Crispy Without Burning?
Getting that perfect crumbly, golden-brown topping can be tricky. Here’s what helps:
- Mix the oats, flour, sugars, nuts, and melted butter until the crumbs just hold together.
- Distribute the topping evenly over apples to avoid thick clumps that might undercook.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) and watch the last 5-10 minutes closely to prevent burning.
- If the topping browns too fast, loosely cover the dish with foil and finish baking.
These steps help achieve a crispy, tasty topping that complements the soft apples underneath perfectly.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking dish or casserole dish – I like a medium-sized one that evenly holds all the ingredients and helps the topping crisp up nicely.
- Large mixing bowls – useful for tossing apples and preparing the topping without making a mess.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for precise measurement of sugar, spices, and liquids to get the best flavor.
- Peeler and corer – makes preparing the apples quick and easy, ensuring uniform slices.
- Short spatula or wooden spoon – to mix and spread everything smoothly in the dish.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Different nuts: Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds for a different crunch and flavor.
- Additional spices: Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice along with cinnamon to deepen the aroma.
- Sweet extras: Mix in dried cranberries or raisins for tartness and extra sweetness.
- Cheese topping: For a savory twist, sprinkle a little grated cheddar or crumble some blue cheese before baking.
How to Make Apple Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 6 medium apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
- 1 cup sugar (divided into ½ cup and ½ cup)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon (divided into ½ tsp and ½ tsp)
- 1 cup old-fashioned oats
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- ¼ tsp salt
- Optional garnish: fresh herb sprig (like thyme) or additional apple slices for decoration
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and around 40-45 minutes to bake. After baking, let it cool a little before serving. So overall, plan for about an hour from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a medium-sized baking dish or casserole dish to keep the casserole from sticking.
2. Toss the Apples:
In a large bowl, mix the sliced apples with ½ cup sugar, lemon juice, and ½ teaspoon cinnamon. Make sure the apples are evenly coated with the mixture, then set the bowl aside.
3. Make the Crumb Topping:
In another bowl, combine the oats, flour, brown sugar, the remaining ½ cup sugar, remaining ½ teaspoon cinnamon, chopped pecans, and salt. Pour in the melted butter and stir everything until the mixture looks crumbly and well combined.
4. Assemble the Casserole:
Spread the coated apple slices evenly in your prepared baking dish. Then sprinkle the crumbly oat and pecan mixture evenly on top of the apples.
5. Bake and Serve:
Put the dish into the oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the topping is golden brown and the apples are tender when pierced with a fork. Take it out and let it cool slightly before serving.
6. Add a Finishing Touch (Optional):
For a pretty presentation, you can add a few extra apple slices dusted with cinnamon and a small herb sprig like thyme on top before serving.
This apple casserole is warm, comforting, and deliciously crunchy on top with tender, cinnamon-flavored apples underneath. Enjoy it on its own or with your favorite vanilla ice cream or whipped cream!
Can I Use Frozen Apples for This Casserole?
Yes, you can use frozen apples, but make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before tossing with sugar and spices. This helps prevent the casserole from becoming too watery.
How Should I Store Leftover Apple Casserole?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving to keep the topping crisp and the apples warm.
Can I Substitute the Pecans?
Absolutely! Walnuts, almonds, or even pumpkin seeds can be great substitutes if you want a different texture or if you have nut allergies. Just use the same amount to keep the topping balanced.
Is It Possible to Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a few hours before baking and keep it covered in the fridge. When ready, bake it directly from the refrigerator, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
