Rustic Skillet Apple Crisp with Maple Oat Topping (Using Applesauce!)

There's a certain magic in the air as fall deepens. The first frost kisses the fields, turning the last of the green to a shimmering silver, and the air takes on a crisp bite that makes you want to curl up with something warm. For me, it's a time of reflection, of gratitude for the harvest, and of making the most of what we've gathered. I especially remember the years we had an apple glut. Bushels and bushels filled the pantry, destined for pies, preserves, and, of course, applesauce. I recall my grandmother stirring a massive pot on the stove, the scent of cinnamon and cooked apples filling every corner of the house. It's a memory I cherish, and a tradition I love to carry on. And now, months later, I find myself reaching for those jars of homemade applesauce, not just as a simple snack, but as a key ingredient in a comforting, waste-not dessert: Rustic Skillet Apple Crisp.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe: Simple, Seasonal, and Sustainable

This Rustic Skillet Apple Crisp is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of fall's bounty and a testament to the beauty of simple, from-scratch cooking. It’s the perfect way to use up homemade applesauce (or even store-bought in a pinch!) and those last few apples that might be starting to look a little sad in the fruit bowl. This recipe bakes in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze. The maple oat topping adds a touch of warmth and nuttiness that perfectly complements the sweet and tart apples. It's a crowd-pleaser, ideal for autumn potlucks or a cozy family dinner. Plus, it aligns perfectly with sustainable practices – we'll even share a tip for using your apple scraps! We believe that simple can be absolutely divine when celebrating nature's beauty.

Ingredients List: From Pantry to Plate

Here’s what you'll need to create this cozy, rustic dessert. Feel free to adapt based on what you have on hand!

For the Apple Filling:

• 4 cups homemade applesauce (about 4-5 medium apples' worth)
• 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and sliced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend)
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 2 tablespoons butter, cut into small pieces
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (for brightness)

For the Maple Oat Topping:

• 1 cup rolled oats (I prefer local oats from our co-op!)
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend)
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 1/4 cup real maple syrup (the darker the better!)
• 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
• Pinch of salt

Substitutions:

• Honey instead of brown sugar in the topping
• Gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free crisp
• Any type of nut you prefer, or omit them altogether
• Other fruit purees, like pear or pumpkin, can be added to the applesauce for a unique twist.

Step-by-Step Instructions: Baking with Ease

Let's get baking! This recipe is simple, so don’t worry if you're not a seasoned baker.

5.1 Preparing the Apples:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

In a large bowl, combine the applesauce and sliced apples. In a smaller bowl, mix the flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined. Pour it into the bowl with the applesauce and apples, tossing to coat evenly. Add the butter pieces and lemon juice. Gently mix to combine.

Tip: Don't overmix – we want those apple slices to retain their shape!

Pour the apple mixture into a well-greased 9-inch cast iron skillet (or a similar-sized baking dish). A cast iron skillet is ideal for even baking and a charmingly rustic presentation.

5.2 Making the Maple Oat Topping:

In a separate bowl, combine the rolled oats, flour, brown sugar, melted butter, maple syrup, nuts (if using), and salt. Mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. I like to use my hands for this part to really get everything incorporated.

Tip: The maple syrup is what gives this topping its distinct flavor. Don't skimp on it! And real maple syrup is always best.

Sprinkle the oat topping evenly over the apple mixture in the skillet.

5.3 Baking the Crisp:

Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are tender. The applesauce will be bubbling around the edges.

If the topping starts to brown too quickly, loosely cover the skillet with foil for the last 10-15 minutes of baking.

Let the crisp cool slightly before serving. Hot apple crisp can be quite messy!

Serving Suggestions: Warm Comfort on a Plate

This Rustic Skillet Apple Crisp is best served warm. The aroma alone is enough to make your mouth water!

• Serve warm with a scoop of homemade vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
• Drizzle with extra maple syrup for an extra touch of sweetness.
• Pairs perfectly with a cup of herbal tea or a steaming mug of coffee.
• For a delightful and healthy option, top with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of granola.
• As a homesteading touch, you can add a little homemade apple butter or a dollop of freshly made whipped cream.

Sustainability Tip

Don't throw away your apple cores and peels! They're valuable resources. Use them to make apple scrap vinegar, which is great for salad dressings and cleaning. You can also add them to your compost pile to enrich your garden soil. Reducing waste is a core principle of homesteading, and every little bit helps.

Closing: Homesteading and Sharing

This Rustic Skillet Apple Crisp is more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to connect with the seasons, to appreciate the simple joys of from-scratch cooking, and to reduce food waste wherever we can. I encourage you to experiment with different apple varieties, spices, and toppings to create your own unique version of this classic dessert. Use up those pantry staples, embrace the imperfections, and share the warmth of your kitchen with loved ones. Happy baking!

What are your favorite apple crisp variations? Share your tips and tricks in the comments below! If you try this recipe, be sure to tag @BetterHomesandHarvests on social media! We’d love to see your creations. Don't forget to subscribe to our newsletter for more seasonal recipes and homesteading tips.