Apple Raisin Crisp

Apple Raisin Crisp Recipe - Delicious Vegetarian Dessert from USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 35 minutes | Servings: 6 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

The Apple Raisin Crisp recipe is a timeless dessert that brings the comforting flavors of cinnamon, sweet apples, and plump raisins under a crunchy, nutty topping. This dish is perfect for those who appreciate the classic combination of fruit and spices, offering a warm, inviting aroma and a delightful contrast of textures. Whether you're looking for a cozy dessert to end a family dinner or a sweet treat to accompany your afternoon tea, this recipe promises to deliver satisfaction with every bite.

History

The origins of fruit crisps, including the Apple Raisin Crisp, can be traced back to the early American settlers. With the abundance of apples and the need for easy, comforting desserts, the crisp became a popular choice. Over the years, it has evolved, with various fruits and toppings being experimented with, but the essence of the dish remains the same. The Apple Raisin Crisp, with its simple yet delicious combination of ingredients, stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of this classic dessert.

Ingredients

0.5 cup raisins
0.5 cup rolled oats
0.5 cup brown sugar
0.25 cup all purpose flour
0.5 tsp cinnamon
0.25 cup shortening
0.5 cup chopped pecans
6 medium apples, peeled and cored
2 tbsp sugar

How to prepare

In a small mixing bowl, pour enough boiling water over the raisins to cover them.
Let them stand for 5 minutes, then drain the raisins.
For the topping, in a medium mixing bowl, stir together rolled oats, brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon.
Using a pastry blender, cut in margarine or butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Stir in chopped pecans and set the topping aside.
For the filling, in a large mixing bowl, combine the drained raisins, sliced apples, and sugar, then gently toss until combined.
Transfer the filling to an ungreased 9" x 9" x 2" baking pan.
Sprinkle the topping on the filling.
Bake in a 375°F (191°C) oven for 30 to 35 minutes or until the apples are tender and the topping is golden.
Serve warm.

Variations

Consider these variations to tailor the recipe to your taste:
Substitute apples with pears or peaches for a different flavor profile.
Add a handful of dried cranberries or blueberries to the filling for added tartness and color.
Use a combination of nuts in the topping for more texture and nuttiness.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure your Apple Raisin Crisp turns out perfectly, consider the following tips:

- Use a mix of apple varieties for a more complex flavor.

- Ensure the butter or margarine is cold when cutting it into the dry ingredients to achieve a crumbly topping.

- Soaking the raisins not only plumps them up but also removes any impurities.

- For a crunchier topping, add a bit more rolled oats or nuts.

- Bake until the topping is golden brown and the apples are tender to make sure the flavors are fully developed.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Apple Raisin Crisp warm, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat. A drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of powdered sugar can also enhance its sweetness and presentation.

Cooking Techniques

Baking is the primary technique used in this recipe, which allows the flavors to meld together beautifully and the topping to achieve its characteristic crispness. Ensuring even heat distribution and monitoring the baking time closely are key to achieving the perfect texture and color.

Ingredient Substitutions

For those looking to make adjustments, here are some substitutions:

- Use coconut oil or butter in place of shortening for the topping.

- Swap out brown sugar with maple syrup or honey for a different kind of sweetness.

- Gluten-free flour can replace all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the filling and topping ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, assemble the dish and bake as directed. This can save time and make the dessert easier to manage, especially when entertaining.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the crisp in individual ramekins for a personalized touch. Garnish with fresh mint leaves or a sprinkle of cinnamon for added color and flavor. Serving it on a rustic wooden board can also enhance its homey, comforting appeal.

Pairing Recommendations

A sweet dessert wine or a cup of strong coffee can complement the Apple Raisin Crisp beautifully. For a non-alcoholic option, a spiced apple cider or a chai latte would make excellent pairings, echoing the warm spices in the dessert.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. This will help maintain the crispness of the topping.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of Apple Raisin Crisp contains approximately 300-400 calories. The exact number depends on the sizes of the servings and the specific ingredients used. This makes it a relatively energy-dense dessert, ideal for an occasional indulgence.

Carbohydrates

This Apple Raisin Crisp is primarily a source of carbohydrates. Apples and raisins are natural sources of sugars, providing the body with quick energy. The rolled oats and flour in the topping also contribute to the carbohydrate content, offering dietary fiber that aids in digestion. A single serving of this dessert can provide approximately 45-55 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

The fats in this recipe come from the shortening and pecans used in the topping. Shortening contributes to the crisp's flaky texture, while pecans offer healthy unsaturated fats. These fats are essential for absorbing vitamins and providing energy. A serving of Apple Raisin Crisp contains about 10-15 grams of fat, most of which are healthier fats.

Proteins

Proteins in this dessert are found in modest amounts, primarily from the nuts and to a lesser extent from the flour. Pecans add a bit of protein, contributing to the overall nutritional value of the dish. Each serving may contain around 2-4 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Apples and raisins are excellent sources of vitamins and minerals. Apples provide vitamin C and potassium, while raisins offer iron and calcium. The nuts in the topping also contribute minerals such as magnesium and zinc. Together, these ingredients make the Apple Raisin Crisp not just a treat for the taste buds but also a boost for your health.

Alergens

This recipe contains potential allergens such as nuts (pecans) and gluten (from flour). Those with allergies to these ingredients should exercise caution. It's possible to substitute or omit these ingredients to make the dish suitable for those with dietary restrictions.

Summary

Overall, the Apple Raisin Crisp is a dessert that offers a good balance of flavors and nutrients. While it is rich in carbohydrates and calories, it also provides dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Enjoying it in moderation can make it a delightful addition to a balanced diet.

Summary

The Apple Raisin Crisp is a delightful dessert that combines the sweetness of apples and raisins with the crunch of a nutty topping. With its rich history and versatility, it's a dish that can be enjoyed in many forms and on various occasions. Whether served as a comforting treat on a cold day or as a sweet ending to a meal with friends and family, this recipe is sure to please.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of anticipation I felt when I first saw this recipe for Apple Raisin Crisp. It was a cool autumn day, the leaves were falling outside my kitchen window, and the scent of cinnamon was wafting through the air. I had just received a package in the mail from my dear friend, Martha, who lived across the country. Inside was a handwritten note and a recipe card for her famous Apple Raisin Crisp.

Martha had always been a talented cook, and her desserts were the talk of the town. I eagerly read through the recipe, taking in each ingredient and step with a mix of excitement and curiosity. The combination of sweet apples, plump raisins, and a crunchy oat topping sounded like the perfect treat to warm up a chilly evening.

I had known Martha for many years, ever since we met at a cooking class in our twenties. We quickly bonded over our shared love of baking and spent countless hours swapping recipes and cooking together. Over the years, Martha had become like a sister to me, and I treasured the recipes she shared with me as if they were precious gems.

As I read through the recipe for Apple Raisin Crisp, memories of our time together flooded back to me. I remembered the laughter and joy we shared in the kitchen, the late-night baking sessions that always ended with a delicious treat, and the way Martha's eyes would light up when she talked about her love of cooking.

I decided to make the Apple Raisin Crisp that very evening, eager to taste the flavors of Martha's kitchen in my own home. I gathered the ingredients, peeling and slicing the apples with care and measuring out the oats and spices. The scent of cinnamon and nutmeg filled the air as I mixed the ingredients together, creating a rich, fragrant filling for the crisp.

As the crisp baked in the oven, I couldn't help but feel a sense of nostalgia for the times Martha and I had spent together in the kitchen. I thought of all the recipes we had shared, the secrets and stories we had exchanged, and the bond we had formed over our love of food.

When the Apple Raisin Crisp was finally ready, I couldn't wait to taste it. The aroma of baked apples and cinnamon filled the kitchen, and I knew that Martha's recipe was a true gem. I scooped a generous portion onto a plate, topping it with a dollop of vanilla ice cream, and took my first bite.

The flavors exploded in my mouth, the sweetness of the apples blending perfectly with the chewy raisins and crunchy oat topping. It was a symphony of flavors, a perfect balance of sweet and tart, crisp and chewy. I savored each bite, feeling the warmth of Martha's friendship and the joy of sharing her recipe with my own family.

As I finished the last bite of Apple Raisin Crisp, I knew that this recipe would become a beloved favorite in my own kitchen. I would make it again and again, savoring the memories of Martha and our shared love of cooking. And every time I made it, I would think of my dear friend across the country, and the bond we shared over a love of food and friendship.