Experience the cozy essence of autumn with this Smoked Apple Crisp. Combining tart apples, brown sugar, and a buttery oat topping, this dish takes the classic dessert to a new level with a unique smoky flavor. Perfect for gatherings, this dessert brings warmth and nostalgia, making it a must-try for any fall celebration.
Imagine enjoying a bowl of warm, bubbling apple crisp, the sweet aroma wafting through the air. The subtle kiss of smoke elevates the flavors, creating a taste that is both comforting and bold. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of maple cream for an unforgettable treat.
Deliciously Smoky Apple Dessert
This Smoked Apple Crisp presents a delightful blend of tart and sweet flavors, highlighting the natural goodness of apples. The smoky essence adds depth, transforming this dish into a comforting experience, perfect for autumn gatherings.
Imagine the contrast of the soft, tender apples against the crunchy, buttery oat topping. Each bite offers a harmonious balance of textures that elevates the traditional apple crisp to new heights.
Preparing the Apple Filling
The foundation of any great apple crisp is the filling. Start with Granny Smith apples, known for their tartness, which pairs beautifully with the sweetness of brown sugar.
In a spacious mixing bowl, combine sliced apples with sugars, flour, lemon juice, and spices. This mixture not only enhances the apples’ natural flavor but also creates a luscious sauce as they bake.
Creating the Buttery Oat Topping
Next, turn your attention to the oat topping. This element adds a crunchy contrast to the tender apple filling. Mix rolled oats, flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl, then incorporate cold butter, working it in until the texture resembles coarse crumbs.
If you like, toss in some chopped nuts for an extra crunch. This topping will become golden and crispy as it bakes, adding a delightful texture to every spoonful.
Smoking the Crisp
To achieve that signature smoky flavor, preheat your smoker to 275°F (135°C). The choice of wood is essential; using fruitwood like apple or cherry will enhance the dish’s sweetness.
Place the prepared crisp in your smoker and close the lid, allowing the flavors to meld for 1.5 to 2 hours. The result will be tender, bubbly apples enveloped in a crisp topping that glows with a golden hue.
Serving Suggestions
Once your smoked apple crisp is finished, allow it to rest before serving. This lets the flavors settle and enhances the overall experience.
For an indulgent treat, serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream melting on top. Drizzle with maple syrup for an extra touch of sweetness, and enjoy this comforting dessert with family and friends.
Why This Dessert Stands Out
This smoked apple crisp is more than just a dessert; it encapsulates the essence of fall in every bite. The combination of fresh apples, smoky undertones, and a crispy oat topping creates an unforgettable dish.
Whether for a family gathering or a cozy night in, this dessert is sure to evoke warmth and nostalgia, proving it’s a must-try for any autumn celebration.
Deliciously Smoky Apple Dessert
This Smoked Apple Crisp features a delightful contrast of tartness and sweetness, with a crunchy topping that adds texture to the soft, smoky apples. It’s a dessert that feels indulgent while spotlighting the natural flavors of the apples.
Ingredients
- For the Apple Filling:
- 6 medium Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
- For the Crisp Topping:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (cold, cubed)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/3 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, toss the sliced apples with sugars, flour, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Spread evenly in a cast iron skillet or disposable foil pan.
- Make the Topping: In another bowl, combine oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and nuts (if using). Add cubed cold butter and cut it into the dry mix with your fingers or a pastry cutter until crumbly. Sprinkle the topping evenly over the apples.
- Preheat Smoker: Set your smoker to 275°F (135°C). Use fruitwood (like apple, cherry, or pecan) for best flavor.
- Smoke the Crisp: Place the pan in the smoker and close the lid. Smoke for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the apples are bubbly and tender and the topping is golden and crisp.
- Rest and Serve: Let the crisp rest for 10–15 minutes before serving. Optional: Serve with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of maple syrup.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Smoking Time: 1.5–2 hours
- Cooling Time: 10–15 minutes
- Total Time: Approx. 2 hours 50 minutes
- Servings: 6–8 servings
- Calories: 350kcal (approx.) per serving
