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Apple Crisp Pizza is my go to dessert when I want something cozy that makes the whole kitchen smell amazing. It combines everything I love about classic apple crisp with the fun of pizza, golden crust, bubbling fruit, and a sweet crunchy topping. This recipe is a brilliant way to get all those fall dessert flavors in shareable slices.
I first baked this for a neighbor's Sunday dinner and watched every slice disappear before the night ended. It is one dessert I return to again and again when apples are abundant.
Ingredients
- Pie crust: Gives you that flaky buttery base making it feel like a hybrid of pie and pizza. You can use store bought for convenience or homemade for extra flavor
- Apples: Choose crisp varieties like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith. They hold up well and give a nice sweet tart contrast
- White sugar: Adds brightness and balances the apples' acidity. Opt for granulated sugar that is fine and free flowing
- All purpose flour: Thickens the apple filling so it does not get too runny. Look for unbleached flour if you can
- Cinnamon: Gives warmth and classic apple crisp flavor. Always use fresh ground cinnamon for best aroma
- Brown sugar: Packs a molasses note into the crumble topping. Choose soft clump free brown sugar for easy mixing
- Old fashioned oats: Bring texture to the topping. Rolled oats hold together better than instant
- Butter: Softens the topping and helps it brown and crisp. Use real butter at room temperature for best results
- Caramel sauce: Takes the finish over the top. Look for thick high quality caramel or make your own if you love a challenge
- Vanilla ice cream: Pairs perfectly with the warm crisp for that classic hot and cold dessert combo
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Pie Crust:
- Roll the nine inch pie crust out so it fits a standard twelve inch pizza pan. Gently fold the edges up an inch all around to create a sturdy border that keeps the apples in place
- Mix the Apples:
- In a medium bowl stir together white sugar flour and cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture over the diced apples. Toss everything so the apples are well coated. The flour keeps juices from leaking all over the crust. Spread apples evenly over the crust right to the edge without overflowing
- Make the Crumb Topping:
- Combine flour brown sugar oats and cinnamon in a separate bowl. Add the soft butter and use your fingers to work it in until it feels like wet sand with some larger nuggets. This texture creates that perfect crunchy top
- Layer and Bake:
- Distribute the crumb topping evenly over the apples pressing slightly so it sticks. Place the pan on the center rack of a preheated three hundred fifty degree oven. Bake for thirty five to forty minutes. You want the apples bubbling and the topping deeply golden
- Finish and Serve:
- Remove from oven and immediately drizzle caramel sauce over the hot topping so it sinks into every crevice. Cut the pizza into wedges while still warm. Scooping each piece with vanilla ice cream elevates each bite
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My favorite part is watching how the caramel melts into crisp edges giving each bite sticky sweet depth. My kids love to help sprinkle on the oat topping and sneaking little nibbles as we go.
Storage Tips
Keep leftover apple crisp pizza covered at room temperature for one day or refrigerate for up to three days. Reheat in a low oven to make the crust crisp again and soften the caramel. Ice cream should always be added just before serving for best effect.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you do not have old fashioned oats quick oats will work but the crumble will be softer. Gluten free pie crusts swap in easily for any dietary needs. Try pears in place of apples for a winter spin or add chopped pecans to the topping for nuttiness.
Serving Suggestions
Apple crisp pizza can hold its own at a dessert table but also pairs beautifully with spiced whipped cream. Add a sprinkle of sea salt over the caramel for a modern twist or serve small slices as part of a fall brunch menu.
Cultural Notes
This sweet pizza borrows from the American love for both apple desserts and creative spins on pizza. It is perfect for fall apple picking season or whenever you crave a homey nostalgic sweet treat.
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I have made this with kids as a weekend project and even with all the mess it becomes a memory every time especially with caramel on little fingers. Each batch reminds me of fall family gatherings where dessert means laughter and a little sticky sweetness.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What kind of apples work best?
Firm varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp offer a balanced sweet-tart flavor and hold their shape well when baked.
- → Can I use store-bought pie crust?
Yes, a prepared pie crust works perfectly and helps save time on assembly for this dessert pizza.
- → Is it necessary to peel the apples?
Peeled apples provide a softer texture and allow the spices to better infuse, but you can leave the skins if preferred.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be covered and refrigerated for up to 3 days. Warm briefly in the oven or microwave before serving.
- → Can I customize the topping?
Certainly! Chopped nuts or a dash of nutmeg can be added to the crumb topping for extra flavor and crunch.