Description
A warm, gooey, and irresistibly sweet treat! Soft baked apples topped with a crunchy snickerdoodle crumble make this dessert a cozy favorite for any occasion. Serve with ice cream for extra indulgence!
Ingredients:
6 cups peeled, thinly sliced tart apples (about 6–8 medium; Granny Smith recommended)
⅓ cup packed dark brown sugar
¼ cup granulated sugar
¼ cup fresh orange juice
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 (17.9 oz) package snickerdoodle cookie mix (includes cinnamon-sugar packet)
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
1 cup coarsely chopped pecans or walnuts, toasted (optional)
Vanilla ice cream or cinnamon ice cream, for serving
Extra cinnamon-sugar, for finishing sprinkle (optional)
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 11×7-inch or 9×9-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
5 minutes
In a large bowl, gently toss sliced apples with brown sugar, granulated sugar, orange juice, and lemon juice until evenly coated. Pour into prepared dish and spread into an even layer.
7 minutes
Open the snickerdoodle mix and pour contents — including the cinnamon-sugar packet — into a medium bowl. Stir together to combine. Evenly sprinkle the mixture over the apples. Do not stir.
3 minutes
Slowly drizzle melted butter evenly across the surface, letting it seep into the dry mix. Scatter chopped nuts over the top for extra crunch and richness.
4 minutes
Bake for 35–40 minutes, until the topping is deeply golden, edges are bubbling, and apples are fork-tender.
40 minutes
Let cool 10–15 minutes before serving to allow juices to thicken slightly. Scoop into bowls and top with a generous scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream. Optionally, dust with cinnamon-sugar.
15 minutes
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour
Kcal: 360 kcal | Servings: 8 servings
#AppleDessert #SnickerdoodleLove #CozyBaking #SweetComfort
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect results. First, ensure your apples are peeled and thinly sliced to about 1/4-inch thickness for even cooking. In your large bowl, thoroughly combine the sugars and juices before adding the apples to guarantee every slice is coated. When preparing the topping, ensure the entire contents of the cookie mix pouch, including the separate cinnamon-sugar packet, are fully combined in the bowl before sprinkling. The key step is drizzling the melted butter slowly and evenly in a zig-zag pattern across the entire surface; this ensures the crumble topping bakes into a crisp, golden layer rather than remaining dry in spots.
Serving Suggestions
While vanilla or cinnamon ice cream is classic, consider these alternatives for a delightful twist. For a warm breakfast, serve a scoop alongside Greek yogurt and a drizzle of honey. For an elegant dinner party, pair with a dollop of freshly whipped cream and a sprinkle of candied pecans. Leftovers (if any) are fantastic reheated and served with a warm caramel sauce or a sharp cheddar cheese for a sweet-and-savory contrast.
How-to Summary
This dessert comes together in three main stages: 1) Toss sliced tart apples with sugars and citrus juices. 2) Combine the snickerdoodle mix and its cinnamon-sugar packet, then sprinkle over the apples. Drizzle with melted butter and add nuts. 3) Bake until golden and bubbly, then cool briefly before serving warm with ice cream.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use homemade snickerdoodle dough instead of a mix?
Yes. Use a standard snickerdoodle recipe for the dry ingredients (flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, sugar) and add 2 teaspoons of cinnamon. Crumble it over the apples before adding the butter.
What are the best apple substitutes?
Firm, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are essential for structure. Avoid Red Delicious or McIntosh, as they become too mushy.
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
You can assemble the dish up to the point of baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
How should I store leftovers?
Cover the baking dish with foil or transfer leftovers to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warm.
Is the orange juice necessary?
Yes, it adds a subtle brightness that balances the sweetness. In a pinch, you can use an additional 1/4 cup of lemon juice or even apple juice, but orange is ideal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using the wrong apples: Soft varieties will turn into applesauce. Always choose firm, tart baking apples.
- Stirring after adding the topping: This mixes the layers and prevents proper crumble formation. Sprinkle, don’t stir.
- Not letting it cool: Serving immediately results in soupy juices. The 10-15 minute rest is crucial for the filling to set.
- Uneven butter distribution: Pouring butter in one spot creates soggy and dry areas. A slow, even drizzle is key.
Conclusion
This Snickerdoodle Apple Crumble is the ultimate fusion of two beloved classics, creating a dessert that is comforting, impressive, and surprisingly simple to make. By following the detailed guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll achieve a perfect balance of soft, spiced apples and a crisp, buttery cookie topping. It’s a versatile recipe guaranteed to become a cherished staple in your baking repertoire, perfect for everything from a casual family night to a festive holiday gathering.