Barefoot Contessa Apple Crisp is made with McIntosh apples, orange zest, lemon juice, oatmeal, brown sugar, and butter. This recipe creates a warm and fruity dessert with a buttery crumble topping. It takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes to prepare and serves 10.
Barefoot Contessa Apple Crisp Ingredients
- 5 pounds McIntosh or Macoun apples
- Grated zest of 1 orange
- Grated zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
For the Topping:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 cup oatmeal
- 1/2 pound cold unsalted butter, diced
How To Make Barefoot Contessa Apple Crisp
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat oven to 350°F and butter a 9 x 14 x 2-inch oval baking dish.
- Prep Apples: Peel, core, and cut apples into large wedges.
- Mix Filling: In a large bowl, combine apples with orange zest, lemon zest, orange juice, lemon juice, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Pour into prepared baking dish.
- Make Topping: In a mixer fitted with paddle attachment, combine flour, sugars, salt, oatmeal, and cold diced butter. Mix on low speed until mixture is crumbly and butter pieces are pea-sized.
- Assemble Crisp: Scatter topping evenly over the apples.
- Bake the Crisp: Place dish on a sheet pan and bake for 1 hour, until topping is golden brown and apples are bubbly.
- Serve: Serve warm, optionally with ice cream or whipped cream.

Recipe Tips
- Use Firm Apples: McIntosh and Macoun soften well, but mixing in a firmer apple can add texture.
- Cold Butter is Key: Ensure butter is cold for a crumbly, crisp topping.
- Place on Sheet Pan: Prevent drips in your oven by baking on a sheet pan.
- Don’t Overmix Topping: Stop when the butter pieces are about pea-sized.
- Add Nuts for Crunch: A handful of chopped walnuts or pecans can enhance texture.
What To Serve With Apple Crisp
This apple crisp pairs perfectly with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce. For drinks, try it with a cup of hot coffee, spiced cider, or a glass of dessert wine.
How To Store Apple Crisp
Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven for best texture.
Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
Apple Crisp Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 410
- Total Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 64g
- Sugar: 38g
- Protein: 3g
- Sodium: 140mg
FAQs
Can I make apple crisp ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the filling and topping separately, store in the fridge, and assemble just before baking.
What’s the best apple variety to use?
McIntosh and Macoun are great, but you can mix in firmer types like Granny Smith for texture.
Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned?
Old-fashioned oats are best for texture, but quick oats can work in a pinch.
Is it okay to use salted butter?
Yes, but reduce or omit the added salt in the topping.
Can I reheat leftovers?
Absolutely—use an oven or toaster oven for best results.
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Barefoot Contessa Apple Crisp
Description
A cozy baked apple dessert topped with a buttery, oat-filled crumble.
Ingredients
For the Topping:
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F and butter a 9 x 14 x 2-inch oval baking dish.
- Peel, core, and slice apples into large wedges.
- Combine apples with zests, juices, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Pour into baking dish.
- In mixer, combine flour, sugars, salt, oatmeal, and butter until crumbly.
- Scatter topping over apples.
- Bake for 1 hour until golden brown and bubbly.
- Serve warm.
