Maple sugar apple crisp

photo courtesy of healthyseasonalrecipes.com

You can use regular sugar in this recipe, but the maple sugar adds a delicious layer of flavor to this classic dessert!

INGREDIENTS:

Topping

1/2 cup flour, any variety

1/2 cup oats

1/2 cup maple sugar

1/2 tsp. baking soda

1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon

1/4 tsp. salt

5 tbs. unsalted butter, melted

Filling

2 lbs. tart, firm apples (about 6 apples), peeled, cored and sliced very thin (1/8 inch)

3 tbs. butter, melted

2 tbs. flour, cornstarch or  tapioca starch

2 tsp. lemon juice

1/4 cup maple sugar 

1/2 tsp. vanilla extract

1/2 tsp. almond extract, optional

1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon 

Pinch salt 

INSTRUCTIONS:

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees and lightly grease an 8x8 baking dish.  Put the apple slices in a large bowl and sprinkle them with the maple sugar, flour, cinnamon and salt. Whisk together the butter, lemon juice and extracts.  Pour over the apples and toss well to combine.  Transfer to the baking dish.  In the same bowl, mix together all the topping ingredients except the butter.  Add the butter and mix thoroughly.  Spread the topping over the apple mixture.  Bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes.  Let cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.  Serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. Serves 8.