Homemade Apple Crisp With Buttery Oats

While this dessert is wonderful any time of year, it’s a classic fall favourite for French Canadians, especially around Thanksgiving in October. In Quebec, it's called Croustade aux pommes and it’s the perfect way to enjoy the season’s crisp, local apples. I love serving it after a day of apple picking, when the fruit is fresh and sweet, and the comforting aroma of cinnamon and butter fills the kitchen. Like many classic French Canadian recipes, Croustade aux pommes is as much about the memories and stories shared around the table as it is about the delicious dessert itself.

This recipe is inspired by my mother-in-law’s classic French Canadian Croustade aux pommes, a staple at every Thanksgiving, always served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Every year, as we enjoy it, the now-legendary story comes up of the time she accidentally swapped cinnamon for cayenne. She didn’t notice until the family started reaching for water, and of course, it became a Thanksgiving tale ever since. I wasn’t there that year, but honestly, I kind of want to try it — I bet it wasn’t half bad! 🌶️ 😄

The Difference Between Apple Crisp and Apple Crumble

While apple crisp and apple crumble are often used interchangeably, there’s a key difference in the topping.

• An apple crisp, which originated in the United States in the early 20th century, features a buttery, oat-based topping that bakes up golden and crunchy, adding texture and depth.

• A British apple crumble, on the other hand, usually has a simpler topping of flour, sugar, and butter, resulting in a softer, sandy texture.

The French Canadian Croustade aux pommes

As a side note, just to add even more confusion in the mix 😆: in Quebec, Apple Crisp and Croustade aux pommes are essentially the same dessert. However, in France, Croustade aux pommes refers to yet another dessert — one that also features baked apples, but with a pastry base and a buttery, oat-based topping (not a crumble).

One thing we can all agree on though is that tender baked apples mixed with some sort of crunch or texture is a delicious fall desert worth celebrating. 🍏 ✨

Which Apples Work Best For Apple Crisp

For apple crisp, the best apples are those that hold their shape when baked and have a balance of sweet and tart flavours. Not all apples behave the same in the oven, though — some stay firm for distinct slices, while others melt into a softer, saucy filling. The most delicious crisps often use a mix of both for the perfect balance of texture and flavour.

For a firm, structured filling (apples that hold their shape)

For a softer, saucier filling (apples that bake down more)

Best Pairings For Personal Preference

🍎 Balanced & classic: Granny Smith + Honeycrisp

🧃Structured but juicy: Pink Lady + Jonagold

👩‍🍳 Soft & saucy: Cortland + Liberty

🍰 Sweet tooth combo: Fuji + Cortland

👉 The TLDR: If you aren't sure, go with half Granny Smith + half Honeycrisp. It will give you firm slices plus juicy sweetness.

Tips for the Perfect Buttery Oat Topping

The topping is what makes an apple crisp truly irresistible. For a crunchy, golden top, use softened butter and gently mix with your oats, flour, and sugar until it forms coarse crumbs — you can even use your fingers for the best texture. Want it extra indulgent? Add a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts for a nutty crunch. If you prefer a softer topping, use slightly more butter or press the crumble lightly over the apples. A pinch of salt or extra cinnamon can also bring out the sweetness and warmth of the fruit.

How to Make This Apple Crisp Vegan

This apple crisp is easily adaptable for a vegan diet without sacrificing any of the buttery, comforting flavour. Simply swap the unsalted butter in the topping for vegan butter or coconut oil. The rest of the ingredients — apples, oats, sugars, and spices — are naturally vegan, so you can enjoy the same cozy, sweet dessert completely plant-based.

Serving Suggestions for Warm, Cozy Apple Crisp

Apple crisp is delicious straight from the oven, but a little extra touch makes it unforgettable. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a drizzle of maple syrup, or a spoonful of whipped cream. For vegan-friendly options, try vegan ice cream or coconut whipped cream. It’s also perfect alongside a cup of coffee, tea, or even a glass of cold milk for a comforting treat any time of day.

FAQ About Apple Crisp

• Q: Can I make it ahead of time?
  Absolutely! Assemble the crisp a day ahead and refrigerate until ready to bake, or bake it in advance and reheat in the oven for the best texture.

• Q: Can I use frozen apples?
  Yes, but thaw and drain them first to avoid a watery filling.

• Q: Can I double the recipe?
  Definitely! Use a larger baking dish and increase the baking time slightly—check for bubbling apples and golden topping.

• Q: Do I need to peel the apples?
  Peeling is traditional, but leaving the skins on adds extra texture, colour, and nutrients. If you want to keep the skins, choose apples that hold their shape when baked, such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, Braeburn, Pink Lady, Fuji, or Cortland. Softer apples like McIntosh or Red Delicious can become mushy and watery with skins left on.

More Recipes Like This One:

• Cozy Homemade Apple Pancakes

• Vegan Pumpkin Pie with Pecan-Oat Crust