Boozy Whiskey Apple Crisp Recipe

This Boozy Whiskey Apple Crisp is the ultimate comfort dessert with a grown-up twist. Juicy, cinnamon-spiced apples mingle with a hint of smooth whiskey, creating a warm, indulgent filling.

Topped with a golden, buttery oat crumble, every bite offers a perfect balance of soft and crunchy textures. Ready in just over an hour, it’s a fuss-free treat that feels special enough for any occasion.

The aroma of baked apples and caramelized oats will fill your kitchen, promising a dessert that’s as cozy as it is flavorful. Each spoonful delivers a comforting blend of sweet, tangy, and boozy notes, making it irresistible.

Whether served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoyed on its own, this crisp is a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress. It’s the kind of dessert that feels like a hug in a bowl.

Ingredients for Boozy Whiskey Apple Crisp

• For the Apple Whiskey Filling:
• 2 lbs (32 oz/907 g) Granny Smith apples (about 5 medium apples, peeled, cored, and sliced ¼-inch thick)
• ½ cup (3 oz/85 g) dark brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 3 tablespoons O’Driscolls Irish Whiskey (or substitute with bourbon)
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed preferred)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon salt
• For the Crisp Topping:
• ⅔ cup (4 oz/115 g) dark brown sugar
• ½ cup (2 ½ oz/71 g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 6 tablespoons (3 oz/85 g) butter, cold and diced
• ⅔ cup (2 oz/57 g) old-fashioned rolled oats
• 1 tablespoon O’Driscolls Irish Whiskey (optional, for extra flavor)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (180°C) and lightly grease a 9-inch (23 cm) baking dish.
2. Prepare the apple filling: In a medium bowl, toss the sliced apples with dark brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, whiskey, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and salt until evenly coated. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
3. Make the crisp topping: In the same bowl, combine dark brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and salt. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs. Stir in the oats and whiskey (if using).
4. Assemble and bake: Sprinkle the crisp topping evenly over the apple filling. Bake for about 45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are tender and bubbling.
5. Cool and serve: Let the crisp cool for 20 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect finish!
6. Storage tip: This dessert is best enjoyed the day it’s made, but leftovers can be stored loosely covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a 350°F (180°C) oven for 10 minutes before serving.

Perfect Pairings: Serving Suggestions

This Boozy Whiskey Apple Crisp is a showstopper on its own, but pairing it with the right accompaniments can take it to the next level. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic combo.

For a twist, try a dollop of whipped cream infused with a splash of Irish whiskey. If you’re feeling fancy, drizzle some caramel sauce over the top! It’s also delicious alongside a cup of hot coffee or spiced chai tea for a cozy fall dessert.

Storage Tips and Reheating Tricks

While this dessert is best enjoyed fresh, you can store leftovers loosely covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, pop it back into a preheated 350°F (180°C) oven for about 10 minutes until warm and crispy again. If you’re short on time, a quick zap in the microwave works, though the topping may lose some of its crunch.

Whiskey-Infused Variations

Want to mix things up? Swap the Granny Smith apples for Honeycrisp or Fuji apples for a sweeter twist. Not a fan of whiskey? Substitute with bourbon or even rum for a different flavor profile. For a nutty crunch, add a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts to the crisp topping. The possibilities are endless!

Time-Saving Tips for Busy Bakers

Short on time? Opt for a pre-packaged apple slicer to speed up the peeling and coring process. You can also prepare the apple filling and topping a day in advance—just store them separately in the fridge and assemble before baking. For an even quicker assembly, use a ready-made crumble topping and just add the whiskey!

Essential Equipment Guidance

To make this recipe a breeze, arm yourself with a 9-inch baking dish and a pastry blender (or just use your hands!) to mix the topping. A sharp chef’s knife and a cutting board are key for slicing the apples evenly. Don’t forget a medium mixing bowl for tossing everything together. With the right tools, you’ll be set for success!