This Apple Crisp in a Mug is a cozy treat made with tender apples, warm spices, and a crunchy topping. It’s perfect for when you need a quick sweet fix!
Making it in a mug means easy cleanup and no fuss! I love enjoying it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. Who can resist that combo? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: For best flavor, choose a sweet variety like Fuji or Honeycrisp. If you’re looking for something tart, Granny Smith works too. You can also use pre-sliced or canned apples in a pinch, just adjust sugar to taste.
Granulated Sugar: You can use brown sugar instead for richer flavor, or substitute with honey or maple syrup to keep it natural. Just remember to reduce other liquid ingredients slightly if you use a liquid sweetener.
Rolled Oats: Old-fashioned oats give a great chewy texture, but quick oats can work as well. For a gluten-free option, use certified gluten-free oats.
Butter: Melted coconut oil or vegetable oil can substitute for butter if you want a dairy-free version. Both work well without altering the taste much!
How Do I Microwave the Apple Crisp for Best Results?
Microwaving can seem tricky, but it’s straightforward with this recipe. You want to ensure the apples become tender while the topping cooks just right. Here are my tips:
- After mixing the apples with sugar and spices, spread them evenly in your mug. This helps them cook evenly.
- Microwave in short bursts, like starting at 1 minute. Different microwaves vary, so keep an eye on it. You’re looking for soft apples and a firm topping.
- If your topping isn’t quite set after 2 minutes, give it an extra 10-20 seconds, but don’t overcook it to avoid dryness.
Let it cool for a minute before diving in, as it will be hot. Happy mug baking!
Apple Crisp in a Mug
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 small apple (about 1 cup diced, peeled or unpeeled)
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional, to prevent browning and add brightness)
- 3 tablespoons old-fashioned rolled oats
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (packed)
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
- Pinch of salt
- Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, for topping (optional)
- Ground cinnamon, for garnish (optional)
Time Needed:
This delightful dessert takes about 5 minutes to prepare and 2 minutes to cook in the microwave. It’s a super quick and easy treat that you can whip up whenever you’re craving something sweet!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Apples:
Start by dicing the apple into small cubes. You can peel it if you prefer, but leaving the skin on adds extra fiber and flavor! Place the diced apple in a microwave-safe mug.
2. Mix the Apple Filling:
Add the granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and lemon juice (if using) to the diced apples. Stir everything together until the sugar and spices coat the apples evenly. This will make them extra tasty!
3. Create the Topping:
In a small bowl, mix together the rolled oats, all-purpose flour, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt. Then, pour the melted butter into the oat mixture and stir until it forms a slightly crumbly texture. This will create a crunchy topping.
4. Assemble the Mug Crisp:
Evenly sprinkle the oat mixture over the apples in the mug. Make sure it covers the apples well for that delicious crispy layer.
5. Microwave:
Microwave the mug on high for 1 to 2 minutes, checking after the first minute. The apples should be tender, and the topping should be set but not burned. Cooking time may vary depending on your microwave’s power.
6. Cool and Serve:
Once done, carefully remove the mug from the microwave—it’s going to be hot! Let it cool for a minute before enjoying.
7. Top It Off:
If you’d like, add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top of your warm apple crisp. A sprinkle of cinnamon makes it even more special!
8. Enjoy!
Dig in and enjoy your warm, comforting Apple Crisp in a Mug right away! It’s a quick dessert that brings cozy flavors to your day.
Can I Use Different Types of Apples?
Absolutely! You can use any type of apple that you prefer. Sweet varieties like Fuji or Honeycrisp are great, but tart apples like Granny Smith can work as well. Just adjust the sugar to taste if using tart apples.
What If I Don’t Have Rolled Oats?
If you don’t have rolled oats, you can use quick oats instead. Alternatively, you could substitute with crushed granola for added flavor. Just keep in mind that granola may be sweeter, so adjust the sugar accordingly.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes! Simply substitute the melted butter with coconut oil or a vegetable oil of your choice. You can also use maple syrup or agave nectar instead of granulated and brown sugar for a more natural sweetener.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers (though it’s hard to resist!), cover the mug with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to eat it again, just warm it in the microwave for a quick reheat!
