Fall is harvest season in Ontario, and in particular, apple season. Apples are a nutritious and convenient snack that provide a variety of health benefits. They are a good source of dietary fiber; particularly soluble fiber called pectin, which supports healthy digestion and can help maintain stable blood sugar levels. Apples also contain vitamin C, an antioxidant that helps support the immune system and promotes healthy skin. In addition, they provide beneficial plant compounds called polyphenols, which may help protect cells from damage and support heart health.
Originating in Central Asia, apples were cultivated by ancient civilizations including the Greeks and Romans before spreading throughout Europe and eventually North America with early settlers. Today, apple trees are grown around the world in thousands of varieties.
In Ontario, apples are one of the province's most important fruit crops, with more than 15 major commercial varieties grown, including McIntosh, Honeycrisp, Gala, Ambrosia, Empire, Cortland, Fuji, Northern Spy, and Spartan.
Apples are a cherished part of the province's agricultural history and culinary traditions! So, in honour of apple season, and International Apple Day on Sept 19, 2026 (yes, there really is such a day), this month’s recipe is 5-minute Microwave Apple Crisp (in a mug).
This yummy treat is ready in just 5 minutes. It’s especially tasty with ice cream, whipped cream, or caramel sauce.
You will need a microwave-safe mug or small bowl for this recipe.
Ingredients
For the apple filling:
- 1 small apple (any variety) peeled and sliced thin
- 1/2 tablespoon of melted butter (or coconut oil)
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (optional: Pinch of nutmeg, cloves, and/or star anise)
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar (honey or sweetener of choice)
- 1 teaspoon flour
For the crisp topping:
- 2 tablespoons of softened butter not melted!
- 1 tablespoons flour (For gluten free use almond or coconut flower, or tapioca)
- 3 tablespoons oats (for best results use Old Fashioned rather than quick oat, for gluten free use gluten free oats).
- 1 tablespoons brown sugar (honey or sweetener of choice)
- ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
- Mix apple filling ingredients in a small bowl.
- Mix together crisp ingredients. Work in the butter with a fork.
- Layer half the apples in a microwave safe bowl, mug, or ramekin. Top with half the crisp mixture. Add another layer of apples and then the remaining crisp mixture. Place in the microwave and cook for 3 minutes.
- Careful when removing from the microwave, it will be very hot! Serve warm with whipped topping or vanilla ice cream.
Notes
- If you want to make the crisp in the oven, you can bake it in an oven-safe ramekin for 10–12 minutes in a 375-degree oven.
- You can add more/less cinnamon and brown sugar to taste.