Apple Crisp

Like most of you, I have a repertoire of desserts that can be whipped up at a moment's notice with pantry staples that are always on hand. When you have unexpected company or just a sudden sweet-tooth craving at 8:00 pm, you mentally run through the list: What can I make with what I have? This recipe has been on that list for years and never disappoints. As a person who is deeply devoted to chocolate, I have to say that this is one of the most satisfying non-chocolate desserts I can imagine.

Gooey, baked apples topped with a sweet, spiced crunch? What could be better? Except, perhaps...

... topping it with freshly whipped cream?

Be still my heart.

Note: this recipe is super easy to cut in half, making a small pan just for you and your special someone.

Apple Crisp
Adapted from the Betty Crocker Cookbook
Serves: 4-6

You'll need:
4 medium apples (I've used Golden Delicious, Gala, Granny Smith...)
2/3 c packed brown sugar
1/2 c flour
1/2 c quick-cooking or old-fashioned oats
1/3 c butter, softened
1 t ground cinnamon
1/2 t ground nutmeg
Heavy (whipping) cream and powdered sugar OR vanilla ice cream, for topping

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees, and grease the bottom and sides of an 8 x 8" pan with shortening or non-stick cooking spray. (For half recipe, use a smaller pan.) While the oven is preheating, peel and thinly slice your apples.

Spread them evenly in the prepared pan.

In a separate bowl, combine the brown sugar, flour, oats, butter, and spices.

I don't use a pastry blender, just a mixture of stirring and mashing with a spoon to achieve this:

Spoon the topping over the apples.

Bake uncovered for about 30 minutes, until the topping is browned and the apples are fork-tender.

While this is cooling for just a few minutes, grab your heavy cream and a little powdered sugar (I use only a tiny amount; the apple crisp is plenty sweet) and throw it in your stand mixer. Crank it up to high for a minute or two until you have stiff peaks. Divide the apple crisp into your bowls...

... and top generously with whipped cream (or ice cream) while still hot... and watch it melt.