Description
Mock Apple Crisp brings nostalgic comfort without apples! Made with simple pantry staples, this sweet, spiced dessert is a warm hug in a bowl.
Ingredients
Scale
- Base Ingredients:
- 1 ½ sleeves (about 60 crackers) Ritz Crackers, crushed
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup packed light brown sugar
- ¾ cup water
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- Flavor Enhancers:
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Crisp Topping:
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup rolled oats (not instant)
- ¼ cup packed light brown sugar
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
Instructions
- Mock Apple Crisp: Prep the ‘Apples’: First things first, get those Ritz crackers ready for your Mock Apple Crisp. Crush them up, but not into a fine powder – you want some texture, like chunky apple pieces. I usually just pop them in a Ziploc and bash them with a rolling pin. It’s surprisingly therapeutic, honestly. This is where the magic starts, transforming simple crackers into something really special.
- Simmer the Mock Apple Crisp Syrup: In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, water, lemon juice, and all that lovely cinnamon and nutmeg. Bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugars dissolve. You’ll smell that warm, inviting aroma filling your kitchen—that’s when you know your Mock Apple Crisp is on its way! I always make sure the sugar is fully dissolved, or it can get a little grainy.
- Combine and Fill Your Mock Apple Crisp: Once your syrup is ready, carefully pour it over the crushed Ritz crackers in a bowl. Stir gently to coat everything evenly. You’ll see the crackers start to soften and swell, soaking up all that spiced goodness. This is where the Mock Apple Crisp truly starts to take shape, mimicking the tender filling of a traditional apple crisp. Don’t overmix, just enough to combine.
- Make the Crisp Topping: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, rolled oats, and a little more brown sugar. Now, cut in the cold butter. I use my fingertips, rubbing the butter into the dry ingredients until it resembles coarse crumbs. This step is key for that perfectly crumbly, golden-brown topping on your Mock Apple Crisp. Sometimes my hands get a bit messy, but it’s worth it!
- Assemble Your Mock Apple Crisp: Pour the cracker mixture into your prepared baking dish – an 8×8 inch square works great. Spread it out evenly. Then, sprinkle that glorious crisp topping all over the Mock Apple Crisp filling. Make sure it’s distributed nicely so every bite gets some crunch. Pop it into your preheated oven at 375°F (190°C).
- Golden Perfection for Your Mock Apple Crisp: Bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is beautifully golden brown and the filling is bubbly and tender. Your kitchen will smell absolutely incredible, like a classic apple pie without a single apple! Let it cool just a bit before serving. The Mock Apple Crisp will be hot, so give it a few minutes to settle, but honestly, it’s best warm.