Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 8x8-inch baking dish or individual ramekins.
- Prepare the Apple Filling: In a medium bowl, toss the diced apples with lemon juice, bourbon, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and salt until evenly coated. Transfer the apple mixture to the prepared baking dish.
- Make the Crisp Topping: In a large bowl, mix the oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Stir in the melted butter until the mixture is crumbly. Sprinkle the topping evenly over the apples.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 40-45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are bubbling.
- Prepare the Bourbon Sauce (optional): In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the butter and flour, whisking for about 1 minute. Add the brown sugar, bourbon, cream, and salt; simmer and whisk until the sauce thickens slightly, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla.
- Serve: Allow the apple crisp to cool for about 10 minutes before serving. Drizzle with the bourbon sauce and serve warm, ideally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Notes
- Apple Varieties: For the best flavour, use a mix of sweet and tart apples like Honeycrisp and Granny Smith. This combination adds depth, balancing the sweetness of the crisp topping with the natural tartness of the apples.
- Bourbon Tips: The bourbon adds a rich, smoky flavour that pairs beautifully with the spices. If you prefer a non-alcoholic option, swap it with apple juice or cider for a similar depth without the booze.
- Topping Texture: To achieve a perfect crisp topping, make sure the butter is fully melted before mixing it with the oats and flour. This helps create a crumbly, golden topping that contrasts perfectly with the soft apples.
- Optional Add-Ins: For a nutty twist, consider adding chopped pecans or walnuts to the crisp topping. They add an extra layer of crunch and a lovely roasted flavour that complements the apples and bourbon.
- Bourbon Sauce: The optional bourbon sauce is an indulgent addition that elevates the dessert to another level. It’s rich, buttery, and just the right amount of boozy, perfect for drizzling over the warm crisp.
- Make-Ahead: This apple crisp can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the fridge until ready to bake. It’s an excellent dessert for entertaining or preparing ahead for a Yellowstone watch party.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The cold and creamy textures balance the warm, spiced apples, making every bite a delight.