American·Dessert
Grated Apple Crisp
A clever twist on the classic dessert that swaps tedious slicing for a quick grating technique. This method results in a luxurious, jam-like filling reminiscent of apple butter, topped with a uniquely crunchy blend of oats and Grape-Nuts cereal.
Prep
20m
Cook
60m
Total
80m
Serves
8
Method
- 01
Grate the whole apples using a box grater into a large bowl. Stop when you reach the core to avoid getting seeds or tough core bits into the mixture.
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- 02
Add the lemon juice, cinnamon, cornstarch, white sugar, and brown sugar to the grated apples. Mix thoroughly until the apples are evenly coated and the sugars begin to dissolve.
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- 03
Generously grease a baking dish with about two tablespoons of butter. Transfer the apple mixture into the dish and spread it into an even layer.
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- 04
In a separate bowl, combine the rolled oats, Grape-Nuts, flour, white sugar, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt. Pour in the melted butter and stir thoroughly until every oat and cereal piece is well-coated.
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- 05
Spoon the topping evenly over the apple base. Do not press the topping into the apples; leave it on the surface for maximum crispiness.
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- 06
Bake in the center of a 375°F (190°C) oven for approximately one hour, or until the apple filling is bubbling and the top is golden brown and crisp.
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- 07
Let the crisp cool to at least room temperature to allow the juices to set into a jam-like consistency. Serve warm or chilled with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
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From Chef John
“This great technique involves grating the apples instead of peeling and slicing them, which is not only faster but definitely better for people that don't have great knife skills.”
“While it is true no one really knows what grape nuts are, we all know what they aren't, which would be nuts from grapes.”
“I really do think this technique is great, pun intended.”