It Was an Apple Crisp Weekend at The James Household!

It's one of the most iconic Maine foods you can make this time of the year. Of course I'm talking about Apple Crisp! And what better way to make it than with the two most special ingredients? Freshly handpicked Maine apples and the company of family.

Let me first start by saying that I was absolutely no help at all. I certainly ate the finished product but I in no way actually helped to prepare these delectable dishes. While my wife, mother-in-law and middle son were busy in the kitchen baking up these sweet treats, I was in my recliner watching football- and I'm not complaining!

It has probably been five or so years since I have had an apple crisp- insane right? I know. But this weekend I finally broke the dry spell and had several helpings. And, my favorite way to have it, is with the apples so cooked that they're almost soupy. I know a lot of people like to have their apples with a little snap to them, but me, the more cooked the better.

According to The Chunky Chef, to make the best apple crisp you will need 6 apples, 2 tbsp granulated sugar, 1 3/4 cup ground cinnamon, 1 1/2 tsp lemon juice, 1 cup light brown sugar, 3/4 old fashioned oats, 3/4 all purpose flour, 1/2 cup cold and cubed unsalted butter and a pinch of kosher salt.

• Preheat oven to 350 F degrees.  Butter an 8x8 baking dish, or spray with non-stick cooking spray.  Set aside.
• In a mixing bowl, add chopped apples, granulated sugar, 3/4 tsp of the cinnamon and lemon juice.  Stir to combine, then transfer to prepared baking dish.

• In a separate mixing bowl, add topping ingredients (brown sugar, oats, flour, 1 tsp cinnamon, salt, and diced cold butter).  Use a pastry cutter to cut the butter into the oat mixture, using a slight downward twisting motion, until mixture resembled pea-sized crumbs.  Alternatively, you can use two forks or even your hands to cut butter into the mixture.
• Spread topping over apples in baking dish, and gently pat to even it out.  Bake 40-50 minutes, until golden brown and bubbly.
• Serve warm and enjoy!

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