Apple Crisp with Fresh Herbs

British apple crumble inspired this cozy crisp, where cinnamon-spiced fruit meets a buttery oat topping. Fresh sage and thyme add a gentle herbal lift that keeps the classic weekend dessert bright and unexpected.

Serves 6 · 20 min prep · 45 min cook

Estimate for one serving

• 335 cal
• 4g protein
• 52g carbs
• 14g fat
• 3g fiber

Every recipe here is free to read.

Ingredients

• 6 medium crisp apples
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 6 leaves fresh sage leaves
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
• 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/3 cup brown sugar
• 6 tbsp cold unsalted butter
• 1/3 cup chopped pecans
• 1/4 tsp pinch of salt
• 1/2 tsp fresh rosemary

Instructions

1. 1Preheat the oven to 350°F and butter a 9-inch square or similar shallow baking dish.
2. 2Peel, core, and slice the apples into thin wedges; toss them in a large bowl with lemon juice, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and half the thyme until evenly coated.
3. 3Finely chop the sage and rosemary, then scatter most of the chopped herbs over the apples and toss once more so the fruit is herb-scented.
4. 4Spread the apple mixture evenly in the prepared dish, pressing lightly so it sits in a relatively even layer.
5. 5In another bowl combine the oats, flour, brown sugar, salt, remaining thyme, and the chopped rosemary.
6. 6Cut the cold butter into the oat mixture with your fingers or a pastry cutter until clumps form and the butter is well distributed.
7. 7Stir the chopped pecans into the topping, then sprinkle the mixture generously and evenly over the apples, covering them completely.
8. 8Bake for 40 to 45 minutes until the topping is deep golden and crisp and the fruit juices bubble thickly the edges.
9. 9Remove from the oven and let the crisp rest 10 minutes so the juices thicken slightly and the herbs bloom.
10. 10Just before serving, tear a few extra fresh sage leaves and scatter them over the hot crisp for aroma.
11. 11Scoop into bowls while still warm, making sure each portion gets plenty of the herbed oat topping.
12. 12Pass the dish family-style so everyone can help themselves to seconds at the weekend table.