Heavenly Apple Crisp Brown Betty
Indulge in the comforting flavors of the Heavenly Apple Crisp Brown Betty, a traditional North American dessert that beautifully marries sweet and tart apples with buttery toasted bread. This delightful dish transforms simple ingredients into a heartwarming treat, perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners. The crispy, golden top layer blends harmoniously with the tender, juicy apples below, creating a symphony of textures in every bite. Pair it with lusciously creamy vanilla ice cream or drizzle with rich light cream for an extra touch of decadence. When rhubarb is substituted for the apples, this dessert is affectionately known as Blushing Betty, showcasing the beautifully inventive spirit of Colonial thrift. Dive into a slice of nostalgia with every forkful!
N/A
Servings
300
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
Soft bread cubes
3 cups (Remove crusts and cut into cubes.)
Melted butter
7 tablespoons (Melted and divided.)
Sliced tart apples
3 cups (Peeled and thinly sliced (preferably Granny Smith).)
Caster sugar
1 cup (Granulated for even melting.)
Ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon (For flavor.)
Fresh ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon (For flavor.)
Water
1/2 cup (To help dissolve the sugar.)
Lemon rind
1 (Grated from a fresh lemon.)
Lemon juice
3 tablespoons (Freshly squeezed.)
Light cream or vanilla ice cream
For serving (Optional topping.)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 180°C (375°F). Generously butter a shallow 1.5-liter baking dish.
2
Layer half of the soft bread cubes at the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
3
In a separate bowl, combine the remaining bread cubes with 2 tablespoons of melted butter, ensuring they are well-coated, then set aside.
4
Evenly distribute the sliced and peeled tart apples over the bed of bread cubes in the baking dish, creating a beautiful layer.
5
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the caster sugar, ground cinnamon, fresh ground nutmeg, water, lemon juice, grated lemon rind, and the remaining 5 tablespoons of melted butter until the sugar is entirely dissolved.
6
Carefully pour this flavorful mixture over the apples, ensuring even coverage.
7
Top the apple layer with the reserved bread cubes, scattering them evenly to form a crispy layer on top.
8
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 40 minutes. Bake until the apples are fork-tender and the bread layer is golden brown and crisp. If the top begins to brown too quickly, you may cover it lightly with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
9
Serve warm or cold, adorned with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of light cream to enhance this delightful dessert.
Nutrition Information
12.5g
Fat
40g
Carbs
3.33g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Heavenly Apple Crisp Brown Betty?
It is a traditional North American dessert that features sweet and tart apples layered with buttery toasted bread cubes.
What kind of apples are best for this recipe?
Tart apples, preferably Granny Smith, are recommended for the best flavor balance.
Can I use a different fruit instead of apples?
Yes, rhubarb can be substituted for the apples in this recipe.
What is a Blushing Betty?
Blushing Betty is the name given to this dessert when rhubarb is used instead of apples.
How do I prepare the bread for this recipe?
Remove the crusts and cut the soft bread into cubes to create three cups.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
The oven should be preheated to 180 degrees Celsius or 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
How many layers of bread are used in this dish?
The recipe uses two layers of bread: half at the bottom and the other half on top.
How much butter is required in total?
The recipe calls for 7 tablespoons of melted butter, which is divided between the bread and the sauce.
What spices are included in the recipe?
The dessert is seasoned with ground cinnamon and fresh ground nutmeg.
Can I use regular granulated sugar instead of caster sugar?
Yes, granulated sugar can be used, although caster sugar is suggested for more even melting.
Why is water added to the mixture?
Water is added to help dissolve the sugar and create a syrup that coats the apples.
What is the role of lemon juice and rind?
They provide a bright citrus flavor and acidity that balances the sweetness of the apples and sugar.
How long does it take to bake the Apple Crisp Brown Betty?
It typically takes between 30 to 40 minutes in the oven.
How do I know when the dessert is finished cooking?
The apples should be fork-tender and the bread layer on top should be golden brown and crisp.
What should I do if the bread browns too quickly?
You can cover the dish lightly with aluminum foil to prevent burning while the apples finish cooking.
Can this dessert be served cold?
Yes, it is delicious served either warm or cold.
What are the recommended toppings for this recipe?
It is best served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of light cream.
Is this recipe considered a traditional colonial dish?
Yes, it is described as showcasing the inventive spirit of Colonial thrift.
How many calories are in a serving?
There are approximately 300 calories per serving.
What is the protein content of this dessert?
Each serving contains about 3.33 grams of protein.
How much fat is in one serving?
Each serving contains 12.5 grams of fat.
What are the total carbohydrates per serving?
There are 40 grams of carbohydrates in each serving.
Is this recipe suitable for beginners?
Yes, it is tagged as an easy recipe that is family-friendly.
Do I need to peel the apples?
Yes, the recipe specifies that the apples should be peeled and thinly sliced.
What size baking dish is needed?
A shallow 1.5-liter baking dish is required for this recipe.
Is this dish similar to bread pudding?
Yes, it is categorized as a type of bread pudding.
How do I prepare the top layer of bread cubes?
The top layer of bread cubes should be tossed with 2 tablespoons of melted butter before being scattered over the apples.
Can I use pre-ground nutmeg instead of fresh?
While fresh ground nutmeg is recommended for flavor, pre-ground nutmeg can be used as a substitute.
Is this recipe good for gatherings?
Yes, it is described as being perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners.
What texture should the top layer have?
The top layer should be crispy and golden, contrasting with the tender apples below.