There’s something magical about a warm Skillet Apple Crisp fresh from the oven, its golden topping crackling with every bite. Juicy, cinnamon-kissed apples mingle with a buttery, oat-filled crust, creating a harmony of sweet and crunchy textures. In just under an hour, this dessert transforms simple ingredients into a comforting masterpiece that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas.

Perfect for cozy evenings or impromptu gatherings, this skillet treat is as easy to make as it is delicious. The tender apples soften into a luscious filling, while the crisp topping adds a satisfying contrast. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dessert that feels like a hug in a bowl—pure, uncomplicated joy in every spoonful.

Ingredients for Skillet Apple Crisp

Crumble Topping:
¼ cup walnuts
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon Earth Balance butter (or regular butter or hardened coconut oil)
½ teaspoon cinnamon
⅛ teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
⅛ teaspoon salt
For the Apples:
½ teaspoon butter (vegan Earth Balance) or coconut oil
1 apple, thinly sliced
½ teaspoon fresh lemon juice
½ teaspoon maple syrup
For Serving:
Vegan coconut ice cream (optional, but highly recommended)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Make the crumble topping: Place walnuts, brown sugar, butter (or coconut oil), cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt in a plastic bag. Use a wooden kitchen mallet to crush the ingredients together. Gently mix with your hands from the outside of the bag to distribute any clumps of butter. Stop when the mixture is coarse and crumbly. Set aside.
Cook the apples: Heat ½ teaspoon of butter (or coconut oil) in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced apples, lemon juice, and maple syrup. Stir to coat the apples and cook for 2-3 minutes until they just begin to soften.
Assemble the crisp: Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the apples in the skillet. Use as much as you like!
Bake: Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for 8-12 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the crumble topping is lightly toasted.
Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Serve warm with a scoop of vegan coconut ice cream for the perfect finish.

Perfect Pairings: Sauce and Topping Ideas

While this skillet apple crisp is delicious on its own, you can elevate it with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a dollop of whipped coconut cream. For a nutty twist, sprinkle some toasted pecans or almonds on top before serving. If you’re feeling adventurous, a pinch of flaky sea salt adds a delightful contrast to the sweetness.

Serve It Right: Creative Serving Suggestions

This dessert is best enjoyed warm, straight from the skillet. Serve it with a scoop of vegan coconut ice cream for a creamy contrast, or pair it with a warm cup of spiced chai tea. For a fun twist, divide the crisp into individual ramekins before baking for personal-sized portions.

Make It Your Own: Recipe Variations

Swap the apples for pears or a mix of both for a unique flavor. If you’re not a fan of walnuts, try using pecans or rolled oats in the crumble topping. For a gluten-free option, use almond flour instead of traditional flour in the crumble mixture. Experiment with spices like cardamom or ginger for a warm, aromatic twist.

Quick Tips: Time-Saving Hacks

To save time, prepare the crumble topping in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. You can also slice the apples ahead of time and toss them with a bit of lemon juice to prevent browning. When ready to bake, simply assemble and pop it in the oven for a quick, fuss-free dessert.

Keep It Fresh: Storage and Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the skillet in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes, or microwave individual portions for 30-45 seconds. For the best texture, avoid freezing the crisp as the apples may become mushy upon thawing.