First Step: Gather and Prep Your Ingredients Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and greasing a 9-inch casserole or pie dish with nonstick spray. This sets the stage for even baking. Take your 5 apples, peel, core, and slice them to about 1/4 inch thick, then toss them with 2 tablespoons of lemon juice. For more on apple prep, check our apple slicing tips to ensure they hold their shape well in this Apple Brown Betty recipe.

Second Step: Layer the Apples Place half of the prepared apples in the bottom of your greased dish. This creates a solid base for the flavors to build. Remember, the lemon juice not only adds zest but also keeps the apples from browning, which is key for a fresh-tasting baked apple dessert.

Third Step: Make the Crumb Topping In a food processor, combine 3/4 cup all-purpose flour, 2/3 cup brown sugar, 1/3 cup sugar, 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg, 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves, and 1/8 teaspoon salt. Pulse these together until mixed. Then, add 1/2 cup cold butter one tablespoon at a time, pulsing until it forms a coarse crumb. This step is where the magic happens, turning simple ingredients into that signature topping for your traditional apple dessert.

Fourth Step: Assemble and Bake Sprinkle half of the crumb mixture over the first layer of apples in the dish. Add the remaining apples on top, then cover everything with the rest of the crumbs. Pop it in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the top is lightly browned and the apples are slightly firm. If you’re adapting for dietary needs, like using gluten-free flour, this is a good point to note how it might affect baking time for an Apple Brown Betty with variations.

Final Step: Serve and Enjoy Once baked, let it cool for a few minutes before serving warm, perhaps with vanilla ice cream or fresh whipped cream. This easy apple dessert serves 6 and highlights how straightforward it is to create something special. For ideas on pairings, explore how classic desserts complement meals.