Apple Cardamom Crisp is a warm, comforting dessert that brings together the sweetness of baked apples with the exotic, aromatic flavor of cardamom. This twist on the classic apple crisp is perfect for fall and winter, when you’re craving something cozy and satisfying. The crunchy oat topping complements the tender, spiced apples underneath, making this dessert a delightful treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Filling:
- 6 medium apples (such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix), peeled, cored, and sliced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- ⅓ cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground cardamom
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Topping:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- ⅓ cup brown sugar, packed
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp ground cardamom
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ½ cup chopped nuts (such as walnuts or pecans, optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
2. Prepare the Apple Filling:
- In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples with the lemon juice to prevent browning.
- Add the granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, cardamom, nutmeg, flour, and vanilla extract to the apples. Toss until the apples are evenly coated with the spices and sugar.
- Transfer the apple mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
3. Make the Crisp Topping:
- In a separate bowl, mix together the rolled oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, cardamom, and salt.
- Pour the melted butter over the oat mixture and stir until everything is well combined and the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- If using, fold in the chopped nuts for added texture and flavor.
4. Assemble and Bake:
- Sprinkle the oat topping evenly over the apple filling, covering it completely.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are tender and bubbling.
5. Serve:
- Allow the Apple Cardamom Crisp to cool for a few minutes before serving. This gives the juices a chance to thicken slightly.
- Serve warm, ideally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Tips for Success
- Apple Selection: A mix of sweet and tart apples works best for this recipe, as it provides a balanced flavor. Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji apples are great options.
- Cardamom: If you’re new to cardamom, start with the amount listed and adjust to taste. Its unique flavor can be strong, so a little goes a long way.
- Crisp Topping: For an extra crunchy topping, you can increase the amount of oats or nuts.
Serving Suggestions
Apple Cardamom Crisp is a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed on its own or with various toppings. It’s perfect for a family gathering, a holiday dinner, or simply a cozy night in. Pair it with hot apple cider or a cup of tea for the ultimate fall treat.
Conclusion
Apple Cardamom Crisp is a delightful variation on a classic dessert, with the warm, spicy notes of cardamom elevating the flavors of the baked apples. The crispy, buttery topping provides the perfect contrast to the tender fruit, making each bite a delicious experience. Whether you’re serving it at a dinner party or enjoying it as a weeknight treat, this crisp is sure to become a favorite.