As the sun sets on a warm summer evening, there’s something comforting about the smell of apple crisp wafting through the kitchen. This dish reminds me of cozy family gatherings where everyone shares stories and laughter.
And let me tell you, nothing pairs better with a scoop of warm apple crisp than a generous helping of vanilla ice cream. The cold creaminess of the ice cream melts beautifully with the warm, spiced apples. Trust me, this combination will have everyone asking for a second helping.
Now, let me take you on a journey through one of my favorite sweet desserts: Arby’s Apple Crisp. Not only is it a taste of nostalgia, but it’s also surprisingly simple to make. So, grab your apron and let’s dive into the delicious world of apple crisp!
What is Arby’s Apple Crisp?
The first time I tried Arby’s Apple Crisp, I was blown away by the balance of flavors and textures. It’s a warm dessert featuring tender, cinnamon-spiced apples topped with a crumbly cake mix crust. The sweetness of the apples, combined with the additional crunch from the topping, creates a dessert that feels both indulgent and homey. It’s the kind of dish that brings people together, whether it’s a picnic, a family dinner, or a simple weeknight treat.
So, what are the magic ingredients that make this dessert come to life?
The Ingredients
To recreate this delightful recipe, you’ll need:
- 1 cup packed dark brown sugar
- 6 medium apples, peeled, cored, and cut into thin slices
- 1 (15.25 ounce) box of white cake mix
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 cup water
- ½ cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
These ingredients are easily accessible, making it a perfect recipe for those spontaneous baking sessions. Let’s get started!
How to Make Arby’s Apple Crisp
The beauty of making apple crisp lies in its simplicity. In just a few steps, you’ll have a comforting dessert ready to serve. Now, let’s break it down step by step.
Step 1: Prepare the Apples
Start with washing and slicing the apples. I like to use a mix of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples for that perfect blend of tartness and sweetness. Peel them, core them, and then slice them into thin pieces.
Step 2: Mix in the Sugar and Spices
In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples with 1 cup of packed dark brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and ¼ teaspoon of ground nutmeg. This mixture brings out the natural sweetness of the apples and adds a lovely warmth. Toss everything well so that the apples are evenly coated. The aroma at this point—pure bliss!
Step 3: Prepare the Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a casserole dish—preferably a 9×13 inch one. Spread the apple mixture evenly in the dish, then drizzle 1 tablespoon of lemon juice over the top for a touch of brightness.
Step 4: Make the Topping
In a separate bowl, mix the 1 (15.25 ounce) box of white cake mix with ½ cup of melted butter. Don’t be afraid to get your hands in there and combine it all until it resembles coarse crumbs. It should be crumbly yet wet enough to hold together.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Sprinkle the cake mix topping over the apples. Pour 1 cup of water evenly around the edges of the dish—this helps steam the apples while they bake and keeps everything moist. Now it’s time to slide the dish into the preheated oven for about 35-40 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the topping is golden brown and the apples are bubbling.
Notes
Here are a few tips I’ve gathered from personal experience to ensure your apple crisp turns out perfect:
- Mix your apples: Combining different types of apples enhances flavor. Try adding a Fuji for sweetness or a Braeburn for a bit of tartness.
- Don’t skip the lemon juice: It brightens the dish and prevents the apples from browning too quickly.
- Baking time can vary: Keep an eye on your crisp. If your topping looks golden but the apples seem undercooked, cover it with foil and bake a little longer.
- Try adding nuts: Mixing in chopped pecans or walnuts into the topping adds an extra crunch that’s delightful.
- Serve warm: Apple crisp is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven. Pair it with ice cream, and you’ll create a dessert that’s hard to resist.
Storage Tips
Leftovers? No problem! Here’s how you can keep your apple crisp fresh:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep for about 3-5 days.
- To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, or until heated through. This restores the crispness of the topping.
- For longer storage, freeze your apple crisp in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just make sure to allow it to cool completely before freezing.
Nutrition Information
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving this delightful apple crisp, the possibilities are endless. Here are a few of my favorite ideas:
- Classic Vanilla Ice Cream: Nothing beats the classic. A scoop of cold vanilla ice cream on warm apple crisp adds a delightful contrast.
- Whipped Cream: For a lighter option, top it with freshly whipped cream. It’s airy and complements the density of the dessert.
- Caramel Sauce Drizzle: Drizzling some warm caramel sauce over your crisp is a surefire way to enhance the flavor profile. Sweet and buttery, it’s a winning combo.
- Yogurt Parfait: For a breakfast twist, serve it with Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of granola. It makes a fabulous start to the day!
- Cheese Plate Addition: Pair slices of warm apple crisp with tangy cheese, such as aged cheddar, for a sweet and savory treat that will surprise your guests.
What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Arby’s Apple Crisp Recipe?
Creativity knows no bounds in the kitchen. Here are some substitutes you might consider for this delicious dessert:
- Butter: If you want to lighten it up, use coconut oil instead of butter. This suits dairy-free diets, while still adding a rich flavor.
- Brown sugar: Coconut sugar is a great alternative. It gives a more caramel-like flavor without the refined sugar.
- Apples: Feel free to switch things up! Pears or peaches can be used instead of apples for a different but equally delightful dessert.
- Cake mix: Healthier options? Use homemade gluten-free cake flour mixtures for a clean eating approach. It’s also a chance to control the ingredients better.
- Nutmeg: If you’re not a fan, you can easily replace it with allspice or leave it out if you’d rather stick with a classic cinnamon flavor.
Arby’s Apple Crisp Recipe
Equipment
- Casserole dish
- Oven
Ingredients
- 1 cup packed dark brown sugar
- 6 medium apples peeled, cored, and cut into thin slices
- 1 15.25 ounce box of white cake mix
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 cup water
- ½ cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions
- Start with washing and slicing the apples. I like to use a mix of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples for that perfect blend of tartness and sweetness. Peel them, core them, and then slice them into thin pieces.
- In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples with 1 cup of packed dark brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and ¼ teaspoon of ground nutmeg. This mixture brings out the natural sweetness of the apples and adds a lovely warmth. Toss everything well so that the apples are evenly coated. The aroma at this point—pure bliss!
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a casserole dish—preferably a 9×13 inch one. Spread the apple mixture evenly in the dish, then drizzle 1 tablespoon of lemon juice over the top for a touch of brightness.
- In a separate bowl, mix the 1 (15.25 ounce) box of white cake mix with ½ cup of melted butter. Don’t be afraid to get your hands in there and combine it all until it resembles coarse crumbs. It should be crumbly yet wet enough to hold together.
- Sprinkle the cake mix topping over the apples. Pour 1 cup of water evenly around the edges of the dish—this helps steam the apples while they bake and keeps everything moist. Now it’s time to slide the dish into the preheated oven for about 35-40 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the topping is golden brown and the apples are bubbling.
Notes
- Mix your apples: Combining different types of apples enhances flavor. Try adding a Fuji for sweetness or a Braeburn for a bit of tartness.
- Don’t skip the lemon juice: It brightens the dish and prevents the apples from browning too quickly.
- Baking time can vary: Keep an eye on your crisp. If your topping looks golden but the apples seem undercooked, cover it with foil and bake a little longer.
- Try adding nuts: Mixing in chopped pecans or walnuts into the topping adds an extra crunch that’s delightful.
- Serve warm: Apple crisp is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven. Pair it with ice cream, and you’ll create a dessert that’s hard to resist.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
There you have it—my take on Arby’s famous apple crisp. It’s simple, comforting, and truly a dessert that wraps you in a warm hug. This recipe is perfect for all occasions, be it festive gatherings or a calm night at home. Give it a go and indulge in the nostalgia it brings. Remember, cooking is about exploration and enjoyment, so don’t be afraid to add your personal touch. Your kitchen is your canvas. Happy baking!
