Let’s make apple crisp! I love this classic fall dessert because it’s easy, delicious, and full of the flavors of the season. Cinnamon, apples, and brown sugar? Yes, please!
I’m sharing my favorite apple crisp recipe below. It features juicy, cinnamon-spiced apples with a buttery brown sugar and oat topping. It’s rich and comforting, especially with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top.
I’ve shared apple crisp and crumble recipes in the past, but never one as simple or as classic as this. What sets it apart from my other recipes is that you don’t have to pre-cook the apples, which cuts down on dishes and hands-on prep. I also make a traditional oat streusel topping (no nuts here!) to keep the ingredient list short and sweet.
If you’re looking for an easy apple crisp recipe to try this fall, you can’t go wrong with this one. It tastes fantastic, and it makes your kitchen smell AMAZING as it bakes. I think you’ll love it.
Hey there, dessert lovers! If you’ve just whipped up a batch of apple crisp (or snagged some leftovers from a family feast), you’re prob’ly wondering, “How long can I keep this yummy goodness in the fridge before it turns into a mushy mess?” Well, I’ve got ya covered! At our lil’ kitchen corner, we’re all about keeping that crispy, apple-y magic alive for as long as possible So, let’s get straight to the juicy deets apple crisp can last about 3 to 5 days in the fridge when stored right. But hold up—there’s a lotta tricks and tips to make sure it don’t go soggy on ya Stick with me, and I’ll spill all the secrets to keepin’ your dessert game strong!
Why Does Storage Matter for Apple Crisp?
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty let’s chat about why you even gotta care about storin’ apple crisp proper-like. Apple crisp is a heavenly mix of tender sweet apples and a buttery, crunchy topping. But here’s the kicker that topping can turn into a sad, soggy pile if moisture sneaks in, and the apples can go bad if ya ain’t careful. Plus, nobody wants to munch on somethin’ that’s grown funky in the fridge, right? Storing it the right way keeps it safe to eat, tasty as heck, and ready for a quick snack or dessert fix.
How Long Does Apple Crisp Really Last in the Fridge?
Alright, let’s hammer this down If you store your apple crisp properly (and I’m gonna show ya how), it’ll stay good in the refrigerator for 3 to 5 days. Now, some folks might push it a bit longer, but I ain’t recommendin’ that. After day 5, the texture starts to flop—think soggy topping and weirdly soft apples—and there’s a bigger chance of bacteria crashin’ the party. If you’re in a super humid spot, you might wanna lean toward the shorter end of that range ‘cause mold loves that kinda weather
Wanna know how to spot if it’s gone bad? Here’s what I keep an eye out for:
- Weird Smells: If it smells sour or funky, like somethin’ ain’t right, toss it. Trust yer nose on this one!
- Moldy Bits: Check for any fuzzy spots or funky colors on the topping or apples. That’s a big ol’ nope.
- Slimy Texture: If the apples or topping feel slimy or way too mushy, it’s time to say goodbye.
- Off Taste: If it looks okay but tastes weird or sour, don’t risk it. Spit it out and chuck the rest.
The Best Way to Store Apple Crisp in the Fridge
Now that ya know how long it lasts, let’s talk about keepin’ it fresh for those 3 to 5 days. I’ve messed up plenty of apple crisps in my day by storin’ ‘em wrong, so lemme save you the heartache with these steps. It’s all about fightin’ moisture and keepin’ air out.
Step 1: Cool It Down Completely
First things first, don’t you dare shove that hot apple crisp straight into the fridge! I made that mistake once, and it was a disaster—condensation everywhere, soggy topping, the works. Let it cool down to room temp for a couple hours. Set it on a wire rack or just leave it on the counter ‘til it ain’t warm no more. This stops trapped heat from turnin’ into moisture and ruinin’ your dessert.
Step 2: Pick the Right Container
Once it’s cool, you gotta package it up right. Here’s what works best for me:
- Airtight Container: Grab a glass or plastic container with a tight lid. This keeps air out and moisture from messin’ with the texture. I like shallow ones ‘cause they cool faster and don’t squash the topping.
- Plastic Wrap Trick: If you’re keepin’ it in the original baking dish, cover it tight with plastic wrap. For extra protection against sogginess, lay a paper towel over the top before wrapping to soak up any sneaky condensation.
- Foil as Backup: If ya ain’t got plastic wrap, aluminum foil can work, but make sure it’s snug. You can even poke a few tiny holes in it to let some moisture escape while still protectin’ it.
Step 3: Store It Quick
Don’t let it sit out too long after cooling. Pop it in the fridge as soon as it’s at room temp. Keep your fridge at 40°F (4°C) or lower to slow down any bacterial shenanigans. And hey, don’t stick it near stinky stuff like onions—apple crisp can pick up weird flavors!
Step 4: Bonus Tip—Separate If Needed
If your apple crisp is extra juicy, consider storin’ the topping and filling in separate containers. I’ve done this a few times when the apples were super runny. Just scoop off the topping as best ya can and store it in its own airtight box. This way, the topping don’t soak up all that apple juice and turn to mush.
How Long in the Fridge Again?
Just to recap, with these storage tricks, expect your apple crisp to stay good for:
- 3-4 Days: Safest bet for peak flavor and texture.
- Up to 5 Days: If it still looks and smells fine, but check it close!
Can You Leave Apple Crisp Out on the Counter?
I know some of y’all might be thinkin’, “Can’t I just leave it out for a bit?” Well, here’s the deal: accordin’ to food safety guidelines, apple crisp can sit at room temp for up to 2 days if it’s got sugar in the filling (which it usually does). But honestly? I don’t mess with that. Bacteria grows fast between 40°F and 140°F, and I ain’t riskin’ a tummy ache. Plus, in warm or humid spots, it can mold quicker than ya think. My advice? Stick it in the fridge unless you’re eatin’ it within a few hours.
Freezing Apple Crisp for Longer Storage
What if ya can’t eat your apple crisp within 5 days? Don’t worry, freezin’ is your BFF! I’ve frozen tons of apple crisp, both baked and unbaked, and it can last up to 3 months in the freezer. Here’s how we do it at my house:
- Cool It First: Same rule as the fridge—let it cool completely if it’s baked.
- Wrap It Tight: Use plastic wrap first, then a layer of aluminum foil to guard against freezer burn. Or pop it in a freezer-safe airtight container.
- Label It: Write the date on it so ya don’t forget when ya froze it. Trust me, I’ve dug out mystery desserts before and had no clue how old they were!
- Baked vs. Unbaked: You can freeze it either way. I sometimes freeze unbaked apple crisp in portions so I can bake fresh later. If it’s baked, it’s ready to reheat straight from frozen or after thawin’ in the fridge overnight.
How long in the freezer? Aim to eat it within 3 months for the best taste. It’s technically safe longer, but the texture and flavor start to dip after that.
Reheating Apple Crisp Like a Pro
Alright, so you’ve stored your apple crisp in the fridge or freezer. Now, how do ya warm it up without losin’ that crispy magic? I’ve tried a buncha ways, and here’s what works best for me:
Option 1: Oven Reheating
This is my go-to for big portions or when I want it to taste fresh-baked.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- If it’s from the fridge, heat for 15-20 minutes. From frozen, give it 30-45 minutes.
- Cover with foil for the first half if it’s frozen to avoid burnin’ the top.
- If the topping looks dry, drizzle a lil’ melted butter over it before the last 5 minutes.
Option 2: Microwave for Quick Fixes
Perfect for a single serving when I’m in a hurry, though it might get a tad soggy.
- Pop a portion on a plate.
- Heat for 30-60 seconds ‘til warm.
- If the topping softens too much, toss it in a toaster oven or under the broiler for a couple minutes to crisp up.
Option 3: Toaster Oven for Small Batches
I love this for small servings when I still want crunch.
- Set it to 350°F on “bake.”
- Heat in an oven-safe dish for 15-30 minutes, dependin’ on if it’s fridge-cold or frozen.
Pro tip: If your topping is totally soggy even after reheatin’, scoop it off, spread it thin on a baking tray, and bake at 350°F for 5 minutes. It crisps up real nice that way!
Extra Tricks to Keep Apple Crisp Crunchy
I’ve learned a few sneaky hacks over the years to make sure my apple crisp don’t turn into a soggy disaster. Try these out:
- Boost the Topping Crunch: When makin’ it, toss in some crushed nuts, granola, or even graham cracker bits to the topping mix before bakin’. This adds extra bite that holds up better in storage.
- Macerate Them Apples: If your apples are super juicy, chop ‘em up, mix with sugar, a pinch of salt, and a splash of lemon juice, then let ‘em sit for an hour or two. Strain out the liquid, boil it down to a syrup, and pour it back over before addin’ the topping. Less juice means less chance of a soggy bottom!
- Paper Towel Trick: Like I mentioned earlier, lay a paper towel over the crisp before sealin’ it up. It soaks up extra moisture while it’s sittin’ in the fridge.
Making Apple Crisp Ahead of Time
Got a party comin’ up or just wanna prep early? Apple crisp is awesome for makin’ ahead. Here’s how I do it:
- Separate Components: Prep the apple filling and topping separate. Cook ‘em if ya want, then store the apples in the fridge and the topping at room temp (or fridge if it’s humid) in airtight containers. Assemble and bake or reheat when ready.
- Assembled but Unbaked: You can also put it all together in a baking dish, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 2 days before bakin’. Just don’t bake too far ahead or the apples might get mushy.
- Just the Apples: If slicin’ apples is the part ya hate, cut ‘em up, toss with lemon juice to stop brownin’, and freeze in portions. Thaw when you’re ready to whip up a fresh batch!
Does the Type of Apple Matter?
Here’s a lil’ somethin’ I’ve noticed: not all apples are created equal when it comes to apple crisp storage. Firmer apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp hold their shape better and don’t get as watery, which can help your crisp last a day or so longer without turnin’ to mush. Softer apples might break down quicker, makin’ the filling juicier and more likely to sog up the topping. So, if ya got a choice, go for the sturdy ones!
A Quick Storage Cheat Sheet
I put together this handy table for ya to reference at a glance. Keep it close next time you’re wonderin’ what to do with that leftover apple crisp!
| Storage Method | Duration | Tips for Best Results |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Up to 2 days | Only if eatin’ soon; not recommended for safety. |
| Refrigerator | 3-5 days | Cool completely, use airtight container or wrap. |
| Freezer (Baked/Unbaked) | Up to 3 months | Double-wrap with plastic and foil to avoid freezer burn. |
| Reheating Method | Time Needed | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Oven (350°F) | 15-20 min (fridge), 30-45 min (frozen) | Large portions, fresh taste. |
| Microwave | 30-60 sec | Quick single servings (might get soggy). |
| Toaster Oven (350°F) | 15-30 min | Small portions, keeps topping crispy. |
My Personal Apple Crisp Mishap (and What I Learned)
Lemme tell ya a quick story. One Thanksgiving, I baked a huge tray of apple crisp, thinkin’ I’d be the hero of the dessert table. But I got lazy and didn’t cool it proper before wrappin’ it up and tossin’ it in the fridge. Next day, I pull it out, and it’s a soggy, sad mess. The topping was like wet cardboard, y’all. I was gutted! Since then, I never skip the coolin’ step, and I always use a paper towel to catch that extra moisture. Lesson learned the hard way so you don’t have to!
Wrapping It Up with Some Final Thoughts
So, to sum it all up, apple crisp can chill in your fridge for 3 to 5 days if ya store it right. Cool it down, seal it tight in an airtight container or with plastic wrap, and keep moisture at bay with lil’ tricks like paper towels or separatin’ the topping. If ya can’t finish it in time, freeze it for up to 3 months, and reheat with care to bring back that crispy goodness. I’ve shared all my fave tips and hacks, from maceratin’ apples to boostin’ the topping crunch, so you can enjoy every last bite without worryin’ about waste or weird textures.
Got leftover apple crisp right now? Go check on it! Make sure it’s stored proper, and if it’s been sittin’ too long, give it the smell and look test before divin’ in. And hey, if ya try any of these tips or got your own apple crisp storage hacks, lemme know! We’re always swappin’ kitchen secrets over here, and I’d love to hear how you keep yours fresh. Keep bakin’ and enjoyin’ them desserts, fam!

Apple Crisp Recipe Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this easy apple crisp recipe:
- Apples, of course! Make sure to use good baking apples here. See the callout below for my favorite varieties!
- Whole rolled oats – They add great texture to the crumble topping.
- All-purpose flour – You’ll add some to the filling to thicken the apple juices and use more in the topping.
- Brown sugar – Light and dark brown sugar both work here, but I prefer dark brown sugar’s deeper caramel-like flavor.
- Unsalted butter – It brings the streusel topping together and adds rich, buttery flavor.
- Lemon juice – Its tangy flavor balances the sweetness of the apple filling.
- Vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg – For warm depth of flavor.
- And sea salt – To make all the flavors pop!
Find the complete recipe with measurements below.
How to Make Apple Crisp
You can find the complete apple crisp recipe with measurements at the bottom of this post, but for now, here’s a step-by-step overview of how it goes:
Start by prepping the apples. Peel them, core them, and chop them into roughly 3/4-inch pieces. Do your best to cut the all the pieces to a similar size so that they cook evenly.
Quick and Easy Apple Crisp!
FAQ
How to keep apples crisp in the refrigerator?
with 90 to 95 percent relative humidity. If you don’t have a lot of apples, the refrigerator is a good option. Place them in the crisper drawer in a plastic bag with holes in it or cover the apples with a damp paper towel.5 days ago
How do you know if apple crisp has gone bad?
If your apple crisp has developed an off smell, changed its color or texture, or if you see mold growth, it has likely gone bad. Taste is also a good indicator. If the flavor is off or unexpected, it’s time to toss it. Store apple crisp in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh longer.
Is it okay to eat apples that have been in the fridge for 2 weeks?
If you keep the apples in the produce bin of a refrigerator with the humidity level set on low, the apples should stay crisp and edible for at least a few weeks. Apples are definitely the least perishable of all the fruits.
Can I eat week old apple crumble?
Crumble itself won’t go off in a week, it’s only butter and dry stuff, but the apples may not be so good. smells doughy.