Name: Apple Pie Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 large apples (peeled, cored, and sliced thin); 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup rolled oats; 1/3 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/4 tsp salt; 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted; Optional: powdered sugar or vanilla ice cream for serving

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A Cozy, Gooey Apple Pie-Inspired Bake with Layers of Cinnamon and Crisp Topping

Apple Pie Bake captures all the warmth and nostalgia of a classic apple pie but with a simpler, more rustic approach. This delightful dessert features tender apple slices coated in cinnamon and nutmeg, layered beneath a buttery oat-flour crumble topping. It’s the ideal solution for when you crave the flavors of apple pie without the fuss of making a crust.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This bake delivers all the comforting flavors of apple pie—spiced fruit, sweet syrup, and a golden topping—without the extra work. It’s quick to assemble, uses pantry staples, and bakes to gooey, bubbling perfection in under an hour. Whether served plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or topped with vanilla ice cream, this dessert is both satisfying and simple, perfect for any time of year.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

3 large apples (peeled, cored, and sliced thin)
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tbsp lemon juice
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup rolled oats
1/3 cup granulated sugar
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
Optional: powdered sugar or vanilla ice cream for serving

directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch baking dish.
In a bowl, toss the thinly sliced apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, and lemon juice. Spread the apple mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
In a separate bowl, combine flour, rolled oats, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt.
Stir in the melted butter until the mixture becomes crumbly.
Evenly sprinkle the crumble topping over the apple mixture.
Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the apples are bubbling.
Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Optionally, dust with powdered sugar or serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 6 servings.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Calories: 290 kcal per serving

Variations

Nutty Crunch: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the topping for added texture and flavor.
Berry Mix: Mix in blueberries or cranberries with the apples for a fruity twist.
Maple Syrup: Replace the granulated sugar with maple syrup for a richer sweetness.
Spice Boost: Add a pinch of ground ginger or cloves for extra spice depth.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour and certified gluten-free oats for dietary needs.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 10–15 minutes or in the microwave for 30–45 seconds until warmed through. For best texture, reheat in the oven to keep the topping crisp.

FAQs

What type of apples work best?

Firm, tart varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp hold their shape and balance the sweetness.

Can I use quick oats?

Rolled oats provide a better texture, but quick oats can be used in a pinch.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, assemble and refrigerate it unbaked for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready to serve.

Is this the same as an apple crisp?

They’re similar, but an apple crisp typically has a more buttery, crunchy topping and may include nuts.

Can I freeze it?

Yes, freeze the baked and cooled dish for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat before serving.

Can I reduce the sugar?

Yes, adjust the brown and granulated sugar amounts to taste or substitute with a sweetener alternative.

How do I prevent the topping from burning?

If the topping browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil during the last 10–15 minutes of baking.

Can I serve this cold?

Yes, it can be served cold, but it’s best enjoyed warm for full flavor and texture.

What can I serve with it?

Vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce make great accompaniments.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, double all ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch dish. Add 5–10 minutes to baking time if needed.

Conclusion

Apple Pie Bake is the ultimate cozy dessert, marrying the essence of traditional apple pie with the ease of a crumble. Its warm, spiced apples and crisp topping make it a comforting favorite for family dinners, holiday tables, or simple weeknight treats. Whether paired with a scoop of ice cream or enjoyed on its own, this bake is sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen.

Apple Pie Bake

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Author: Mia
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A warm, comforting dessert featuring spiced apples baked under a golden oat crumble topping. This apple pie bake captures all the flavors of classic apple pie in a simple, easy-to-make dish.

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a mixing bowl, toss apple slices with brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, and lemon juice.
Spread the apple mixture evenly in a greased 9-inch baking dish.
In another bowl, combine flour, rolled oats, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt.
Stir in melted butter until the mixture becomes crumbly.
Sprinkle the oat-flour mixture evenly over the apples.
Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are bubbling.
Let cool slightly before serving. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar or serve with vanilla ice cream.