Cran-Apple Crisps

A crisp, chewy topping, and tender, juicy baked Fall fruits combine to make a delicious, comforting dessert.

The topping starts with the usual pantry ingredients of rolled oats, flour, sugar and spices combined with butter. Though uncommon, coconut is also included, adding a subtle flavour and great, chewy texture. I don't usually pull out the food processor to make the topping but just combine the dry ingredients in a bowl and rub the butter in with my fingers.

The filling is simply diced apples (I used apples and pears for this batch), fresh and dried cranberries, sugar and a little flour to thicken the juices. Simple, but a very good balance of sweet and tart.

The topping is perfect with the fruits, the spices complement without overwhelming them. It tastes fabulous with Fall fruits but also works well with Summer berries and peaches. The crisp can be served with ice cream etc, but it's so good as is, it needs no further embellishment.