This Apple Crisp in a Mug is a warm and cozy treat! Just imagine sweet apples mixed with cinnamon and a crunchy topping, all made in just a few minutes.
I love making this when I have a sweet tooth but don’t want a big mess. Plus, it’s the perfect portion for me—no leftovers to tempt me later. Enjoy with a scoop of ice cream for a fun twist! 🍏✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: I love using Fuji or Gala apples for their sweetness and firmness. You could substitute with Granny Smith for a tart flavor or even use pre-sliced apples if you’re short on time.
Granulated Sugar: This sweetens the apple mixture nicely. If you’re watching your sugar intake, you could use a sugar substitute like stevia or maple syrup, adjusting the amount accordingly.
Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats: These give a great texture in the topping. Quick oats can replace rolled oats, but the texture will be finer. If gluten-free is a concern, use gluten-free oats.
Butter: I prefer cold unsalted butter for a better control of salt. You can swap it out for coconut oil or a dairy-free butter if you’re looking for a vegan option.
How Do I Make Sure My Apples are Perfectly Cooked?
Getting the apples just right is key. Here’s how to cook them perfectly:
- Start by microwaving the diced apples with water and sugar for 1 to 2 minutes. Keep an eye on them to ensure they become tender without turning mushy.
- Stir them halfway for even cooking, and if they aren’t soft enough, add another 30 seconds.
This way, your apples will be deliciously soft but still hold their shape when you bake them with the crisp topping. Enjoy your quick and easy treat!
Apple Crisp in a Mug
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 medium apple (such as Fuji or Gala), peeled, cored, and diced
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon light brown sugar, packed
- 1 tablespoon cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
- A pinch of salt
- Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream (optional, for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This quick and delicious dessert takes about 5 minutes of active prep time and an additional 3 to 4 minutes to cook in the microwave, making it a perfect sweet treat when you’re short on time. Just grab your ingredients and a mug, and you’ll have a warm apple crisp in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Apples:
In a microwave-safe mug, place your diced apple. Add the water, granulated sugar, and ground cinnamon. Give it a good stir to make sure the apples are coated evenly. This combination will bring out the natural sweetness of the apples and infuse them with flavor.
2. Cook the Apples:
Microwave the apple mixture for about 1 to 2 minutes. You want the apples to be just tender but not mushy. Keep an eye on them — every microwave is different, so check after 1 minute to see how they’re doing.
3. Make the Topping:
While the apples are cooking, grab a small bowl. Mix together the rolled oats, all-purpose flour, light brown sugar, cold butter pieces, and a pinch of salt. Use your fingers or a fork to mix the butter into the dry ingredients until it looks like coarse crumbs. This will create that delicious topping that brings the crisp to your apple crisp!
4. Assemble and Cook Again:
Sprinkle the oat topping evenly over the cooked apples in the mug. Pop the mug back in the microwave for another 1 to 2 minutes. You want the topping to be set and slightly crisp on top. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t overflow!
5. Cool and Serve:
Let your apple crisp cool for a minute or two because it will be very hot. If you want to make it extra yummy, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top. It’s the best way to enjoy your cozy treat!
6. Enjoy!
Dig in and savor each warm, delicious bite of your Apple Crisp in a Mug. It’s perfect for a quick dessert or a snack anytime you need a little sweetness in your day!
Can I Use Other Fruits Instead of Apples?
Absolutely! You can use pears, peaches, or even berries. Just keep in mind that different fruits may require slight adjustments in cooking time. Check frequently to ensure they don’t get too soft!
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
To make this Apple Crisp in a Mug vegan, simply substitute the butter with a plant-based butter or coconut oil. Use maple syrup or another sweetener instead of granulated sugar for a fully vegan-friendly treat!
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
This recipe is best enjoyed fresh, but if you’d like to prep in advance, you can prepare the apple mixture and topping separately. Keep them in the fridge, and when you’re ready, just microwave them together!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply microwave for 30 seconds to a minute, checking to make sure it’s warmed evenly. Enjoy it warm for the best flavor!
