Apple crisp is a delicious fall dessert made with sliced apples, brown sugar, spices, and an oat topping. It’s often served warm with ice cream, but you may have leftovers if you make a large pan. Fortunately, apple crisp leftovers will keep for 3-5 days in the refrigerator or freezer for longer storage.
Can you refrigerate leftover apple crisp?
Yes, you can refrigerate leftover apple crisp. Cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. The crisp topping may soften slightly when refrigerated.
Refrigeration is the best way to store apple crisp short-term. The cold temperature will prevent the growth of bacteria and mold. Be sure your refrigerator is set to 40°F or below.
What’s the best way to store leftover apple crisp in the refrigerator?
The best way to store leftover apple crisp in the fridge is:
- Allow the crisp to cool completely first, about 1-2 hours.
- Cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Place the pan in the back of the refrigerator where it’s coldest.
- Refrigerate for up to 3-5 days.
You don’t need to transfer the crisp to another container. Simply cover the original baking pan before refrigerating. The foil or plastic wrap creates a seal to prevent the crisp from drying out or absorbing fridge odors.
Can you freeze leftover apple crisp?
Yes, apple crisp freezes very well. Freezing is a great long-term storage option if you won’t be eating the crisp within 3-5 days. It will keep frozen for 2-3 months.
To freeze apple crisp:
- Allow the crisp to cool completely, about 1-2 hours.
- Cut or scoop the crisp into individual portions.
- Place each portion in a freezer bag, squeezing out excess air.
- Lay the bags flat in the freezer.
Freezing the crisp in individual portions makes it easy to remove just what you need. The crisp may become a little watery when thawed but will still taste delicious!
What’s the best way to thaw frozen apple crisp?
Here are some easy ways to thaw frozen apple crisp:
- Refrigerator thawing: Place the frozen bag of crisp in the fridge. Allow 12-24 hours for it to fully thaw.
- Microwave: Microwave individual portions on 50% power for 2-3 minutes, until warmed through.
- Oven: Bake frozen individual portions at 350°F for 10-15 minutes.
For best results, serve the thawed crisp warm topped with ice cream. The crisp may lose some texture after freezing but will still have great apple flavor.
How can you tell if leftover apple crisp has gone bad?
Here are signs that leftover apple crisp has gone bad and should be discarded:
- Mold growth – you see fuzzy mold on the surface.
- Off odors – it smells unpleasant or rotten.
- Very dry texture – the topping is dried out and hard.
- Liquid pooling – excessive liquid has pooled in the bottom.
As long as the crisp was promptly refrigerated and remains covered, it should stay fresh for 3-5 days. Discard any crisp that shows signs of spoilage.
Can you reheat leftover apple crisp?
Yes, you can safely reheat leftover apple crisp to serve again. The best ways to reheat are:
- Oven: Bake at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until hot.
- Microwave: Microwave individual portions on 50% power for 1-2 minutes.
For the crisp topping to stay crispy, try microwaving your portions first, then popping them in a hot oven for a few minutes. Serve reheated crisp with ice cream or whipped cream.
How should you bring apple crisp to a party?
If you’re bringing leftover apple crisp to share at a party or potluck, here are some serving tips:
- Transport the crisp in a disposable aluminum pan or casserole dish with a lid.
- Keep the crisp chilled during transport by placing the covered dish in an insulated bag or cooler.
- Once at the party, pop the crisp in the oven or microwave to reheat it.
- Provide scoops and toppings like ice cream, whipped cream, or caramel sauce.
- Keep a serving spoon just for the crisp to prevent cross-contamination.
Transporting the crisp chilled and then reheating it just before serving will ensure it stays fresh and delicious.
What are some tasty ways to use up leftover apple crisp?
Don’t let leftover apple crisp go to waste! Here are creative ways to use up those leftovers:
- Layer it into parfaits with yogurt and granola.
- Fold it into oatmeal or pancake batter.
- Blend it into a milkshake.
- Use it as a topping for waffles or ice cream.
- Repurpose it into truffles or trifles.
- Layer it into mason jars for an on-the-go treat.
With a little creativity, you can give leftover apple crisp a tasty second life and cut down on food waste.
Conclusion
Apple crisp is easy to store, whether you refrigerate it for 3-5 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. Refrigerate leftovers in a covered dish, or divide and freeze in portions for grab-and-go snacks. Reheat refrigerated or frozen crisp in the oven or microwave before serving. With proper storage, you can enjoy apple crisp again and again.