Classic Apple Streusel Delight
This Classic Apple Streusel Delight is an elegant dessert that breathes new life into day-old bread, turning it into a tantalizingly crunchy topping for juicy, tart apples. With the addition of aromatic spices and a hint of citrus, this delicious dessert is perfect for autumnal gatherings or cozy family dinners. By using Granny Smith apples, you ensure a balance between tartness and sweetness, while a splash of apple cider enhances the fruity flavor. Optional additions like cranberries or blueberries can add a delightful burst of color and flavor, making this dessert a versatile treat!
6-8
Servings
N/A
Calories
13
Ingredients
Ingredients
sandwich bread
4 slices (use day-old bread)
melted butter
3 tablespoons
sugar
1/3 cup
brown sugar
1/3 cup (packed)
cinnamon
1 teaspoon ((can use more))
salt
1 pinch
allspice
1/2 teaspoon ((can use more))
granny smith apples
2 lbs (peeled and sliced)
apple cider
1/2 cup
lemon zest
2 teaspoons (grated)
lemon juice
2 tablespoons (fresh)
vanilla
1 1/2 teaspoons
vanilla ice cream
as desired (for serving)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2
Generously butter an 8-inch baking dish and set it aside.
3
Place the day-old sandwich bread slices in a food processor and pulse until finely ground, creating about 2 cups of breadcrumbs.
4
In a medium-sized bowl, stir together the breadcrumbs and melted butter until well combined; set aside.
5
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the white sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and allspice.
6
Add the sliced apples, apple cider, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract to the sugar mixture. Toss everything together until the apples are evenly coated.
7
Carefully spoon half of the apple mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out in an even layer.
8
Sprinkle half of the breadcrumb mixture over the apples, followed by the remaining apple mixture.
9
Finish with the remaining breadcrumb mixture, ensuring an even coverage.
10
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown and bubbling.
11
Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly on a wire rack before serving.
12
Spoon into serving dishes and top each serving with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Classic Apple Streusel Delight?
It is an elegant dessert that repurposes day-old bread into a crunchy topping for juicy, tart apples seasoned with aromatic spices.
What kind of apples are best for this recipe?
Granny Smith apples are recommended because they provide a perfect balance between tartness and sweetness.
How do I prepare the bread for the topping?
Use 4 slices of day-old sandwich bread and pulse them in a food processor until they are finely ground into about 2 cups of breadcrumbs.
What is the recommended oven temperature?
The oven should be preheated to 350°F (175°C).
How long does this dessert need to bake?
It should bake for approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown.
Can I add other fruits to this apple streusel?
Yes, you can add cranberries or blueberries for an extra burst of color and flavor.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes enough for 6 to 8 servings.
What spices are used in the apple mixture?
The recipe uses cinnamon and allspice to provide aromatic warmth.
What type of dish should I use for baking?
A generously buttered 8-inch baking dish is required for this recipe.
Is the breadcrumb mixture just bread?
No, the finely ground breadcrumbs are stirred together with 3 tablespoons of melted butter.
How do I layer the ingredients in the baking dish?
Layer half the apples, half the breadcrumbs, the remaining apples, and finally the remaining breadcrumbs.
What liquid ingredients are mixed with the apples?
The apples are tossed with apple cider, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.
Can I use fresh bread instead of day-old bread?
Day-old bread is preferred as it creates a better texture for the crunchy topping.
Should the apples be peeled?
Yes, the recipe specifies that the apples should be peeled and sliced.
What is the best way to serve this dessert?
It is best served slightly cooled with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top.
Does this recipe use white or brown sugar?
It uses both! The recipe calls for 1/3 cup of white sugar and 1/3 cup of packed brown sugar.
What role does lemon play in this recipe?
Lemon zest and lemon juice are added to provide a hint of citrus and balance the sweetness.
Can I increase the amount of spices?
Yes, the recipe notes that you can use more cinnamon and allspice if desired.
What should I look for to know it is finished cooking?
The topping should be golden brown and bubbling, and the apples must be tender.
Is this a good recipe for the fall season?
Absolutely, it is described as a perfect treat for autumnal gatherings.
How much apple cider is needed?
The recipe requires 1/2 cup of apple cider to enhance the fruity flavor.
Is there salt in the recipe?
Yes, a pinch of salt is added to the sugar and spice mixture.
Can this be considered an easy recipe?
Yes, it is tagged as an easy recipe suitable for family dinners.
How many apples do I need in total?
You will need approximately 2 lbs of Granny Smith apples.
Do I need to grease the baking dish?
Yes, you should generously butter the baking dish before adding any ingredients.
Is vanilla used in the apple mixture?
Yes, 1 1/2 teaspoons of vanilla extract are mixed with the apples.
What if I don't have a food processor?
While a food processor is recommended for fine crumbs, you can finely crumble the bread by hand.
Can I serve this cold?
While it can be eaten cold, it is recommended to serve it while still slightly warm from the oven.
What makes the topping crunchy?
The combination of fine breadcrumbs and melted butter baked at a high temperature creates the crunch.
Is this recipe considered a comfort food?
Yes, it is tagged as a comfort food, perfect for cozy family settings.