Apple Rhubarb Crisp

Apple Rhubarb Crisp is a delightful, rustic dessert that pairs the sweet tartness of rhubarb with the comforting flavor of baked apples. Topped with a buttery, golden oat crumble, this easy-to-make crisp is the perfect balance of fruity and crunchy, making it an irresistible treat for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this recipe for its simple preparation and comforting flavors. The combination of tart rhubarb and sweet apples creates a perfect flavor harmony, while the crisp topping adds a satisfying crunch. It’s a cozy dessert that’s ideal for family gatherings, potlucks, or an everyday sweet treat.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Rhubarb stalks (fresh or frozen, diced)
• Apples (peeled, cored, and sliced)
• Granulated sugar
• Brown sugar
• All-purpose flour
• Ground cinnamon
• Lemon juice
• Old-fashioned oats
• Unsalted butter (cold and cubed)
• Salt

directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, toss the diced rhubarb and sliced apples with granulated sugar, a bit of flour, cinnamon, and lemon juice.
3. Spread the fruit mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together the oats, brown sugar, flour, and a pinch of salt.
5. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
6. Sprinkle the oat mixture evenly over the fruit.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the fruit is bubbly.
8. Let cool slightly before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 6-8 servings.
Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and baking time is about 40-45 minutes.

Variations

• Add a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans to the topping for extra crunch.
• Mix in some strawberries with the rhubarb and apples for a sweeter twist.
• Use maple syrup in the fruit filling for added depth of flavor.
• Add a dash of nutmeg along with the cinnamon for a warmer spice blend.
• Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream when serving.

storage/reheating

Store leftover crisp covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 30-45 seconds, or reheat the entire dish in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15 minutes until warmed through. This dessert can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen rhubarb?

Yes, just thaw it and drain excess moisture before using to avoid a soggy crisp.

What kind of apples work best?

Tart apples like Granny Smith balance the sweetness nicely, but you can also use Honeycrisp or Braeburn.

Do I need to peel the apples?

Peeling is recommended for a softer texture, but you can leave the peels on if you prefer.

Can I make this crisp ahead of time?

Yes, assemble it up to a day ahead, refrigerate, and bake just before serving.

How do I know when the crisp is done?

The topping should be golden brown, and the fruit should be bubbling around the edges.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, substitute a gluten-free flour blend and ensure your oats are certified gluten-free.

Can I reduce the sugar?

You can adjust the sugar to taste, but keep some to balance the tartness of the rhubarb.

Should the butter be cold for the topping?

Yes, cold butter creates a crumbly, crunchy topping.

Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats?

Old-fashioned oats are best for texture, but quick oats can work in a pinch.

Can I freeze apple rhubarb crisp?

Yes, cool it completely, then cover tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.

Conclusion

Apple Rhubarb Crisp is a wonderfully simple yet flavorful dessert that showcases the perfect balance of sweet and tart with a satisfying, crunchy topping. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or reheated for a cozy treat, this crisp is a timeless favorite that everyone will love. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate dessert experience!

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