Make a quick and easy single-serving apple crisp with tender baked apples and a golden, buttery oat topping. This easy apple dessert is perfect for one, requiring simple ingredients like cinnamon, brown sugar, and oats. Serve warm on its own or with ice cream for a comforting treat. Ideal for small portions, quick desserts, or weeknight sweet cravings.

Ingredients

For the Filling
US Measurements:

1 medium apple, peeled, cored, and diced
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon all-purpose flour
⅛ teaspoon cinnamon
¼ teaspoon vanilla extract

Metric Measurements:

1 medium apple, peeled, cored, and diced (~150 g)
12 g sugar
8 g all-purpose flour
0.5 g cinnamon
1 ml vanilla extract

For the Topping
US Measurements:

3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
3 tablespoons old-fashioned oats
2 tablespoons brown sugar
⅛ teaspoon cinnamon
2 tablespoons salted butter, softened

Metric Measurements:

24 g all-purpose flour
24 g old-fashioned oats
25 g brown sugar
0.5 g cinnamon
28 g salted butter, softened

Instructions

Prepare the Filling:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). In a small bowl, combine the diced apple, sugar, flour, cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Mix well, then transfer the mixture to a 10-ounce ramekin.
Make the Topping:
In another small bowl, combine flour, oats, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cut the softened butter into small pieces and blend it into the mixture using a fork or your fingers until it forms a crumbly texture.
Assemble and Bake:
Sprinkle the topping evenly over the apple filling. Place the ramekin on a small rimmed baking sheet to catch any drips. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This single-serving apple crisp is quick, easy, and perfect for satisfying a sweet craving without making a large batch. The combination of tender apples and a crisp, buttery oat topping creates a comforting, warm dessert that’s ideal any time.

Tips

Use firm but ripe apples for the best texture.
Place the ramekin on a baking sheet to prevent spills in the oven.
Let the crisp rest a few minutes before serving so the juices settle.

Variations and Substitutions

Fruit Options: Substitute pears, peaches, or berries for the apple.
Topping Add-Ons: Add chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or a pinch of nutmeg for extra flavor.
Sugar Alternatives: Use coconut sugar, maple sugar, or a sugar substitute if preferred.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: You can assemble the crisp and refrigerate for a few hours, then bake just before serving.

Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: Yes, substitute the butter with coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative.

Q: Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats?
A: Yes, though the topping will be slightly softer and less textured.

Serving and Suggestions

Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Sprinkle with cinnamon or powdered sugar for extra presentation.
Pair with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy single-serving dessert experience.