Skillet Cinnamon Apple Crisp with Oat Topping

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Warm cinnamon-scented apples baked under a buttery oat topping makes this skillet dessert a quick and comforting treat. This American-inspired recipe, ready in about 45 minutes, layers Granny Smith apples, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon into a dessert worth slowing down for — great for weekend baking, holiday tables, or any time you want a sweet payoff at the end of a meal. Each serving lands at about 210 calories and feeds 4, so it slots into a weekend bake or a special-occasion dessert tray. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 10 min Cook: 35 min Serves 4 American cuisine 210 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F. In a large bowl, toss 3 medium peeled and sliced Granny Smith apples with 1/4 cup granulated sugar and 1 tsp ground cinnamon until evenly coated.
  2. Step 2: Transfer the apple mixture to a 9-inch oven-safe skillet or baking dish, spreading them out evenly.
  3. Step 3: In a separate small bowl, combine 3/4 cup rolled oats with 4 tbsp melted unsalted butter, mixing until the oats are fully moistened and clumpy.
  4. Step 4: Sprinkle the oat topping evenly over the apples.
  5. Step 5: Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes until the topping is golden brown and the apples are bubbling and tender.
  6. Step 6: Let cool for 5 minutes before serving warm, optionally with vanilla ice cream.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Skillet Cinnamon Apple Crisp with Oat Topping take to make?

Total time is about 45 minutes (10 min prep + 35 min cook). Most home bakers find this fits a weekend afternoon; chill or store as the recipe directs before serving.

How do I store leftover Skillet Cinnamon Apple Crisp with Oat Topping?

Cool fully before storing. Most baked desserts keep at room temperature in an airtight container for 2–3 days, or in the fridge for up to 5 days. Cream- or custard-based desserts must go in the fridge within 2 hours; reheat gently or serve cold per the recipe.

Can I substitute ingredients in Skillet Cinnamon Apple Crisp with Oat Topping?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Skillet Cinnamon Apple Crisp with Oat Topping for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Skillet Cinnamon Apple Crisp with Oat Topping?

American desserts like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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