Description
Brown Betty is a classic American dessert that layers tender, cinnamon-spiced apples with buttery toasted croissant crumbs for a delightful twist on traditional breadcrumbs. Baked until golden and bubbly, this comforting dish is perfectly paired with vanilla ice cream for a warm, nostalgic treat.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Croissant Crumbs
- Cooking spray
- 5 large day-old croissants (about 8 ounces total)
- 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
For the Apple Filling
- 2 pounds large Granny Smith apples (about 5 apples)
- 1/2 medium lemon (for about 2 teaspoons lemon juice)
- 3/4 cup firmly packed light brown sugar
- 1/3 cup raisins (optional)
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
For Serving
- Vanilla ice cream
Instructions
- Prepare the oven and baking dish: Arrange the oven rack in the middle position and preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly coat a 1 1/2- to 2-quart baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Toast the croissant pieces: Tear the day-old croissants into 1-inch pieces and spread them evenly on a large rimmed baking sheet. Bake them in the preheated oven for 7 to 10 minutes until they are crisp and golden brown. This step enhances the crumb texture and flavor.
- Prepare the apple slices: While the croissants toast, peel, core, and slice the Granny Smith apples into 1/4-inch-thick slices. Place them in a large bowl and toss them with about 2 teaspoons of fresh lemon juice extracted from half a medium lemon to prevent browning and add a bright flavor.
- Make the croissant crumb mixture: Allow the toasted croissant pieces to cool slightly, then transfer them to a food processor fitted with a blade attachment. Pulse until coarse crumbs form. Measure out 2 cups of these crumbs and place them in a medium bowl. Pour the melted butter over the crumbs along with 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar, then toss gently to combine evenly.
- Mix the brown sugar spice blend: In a small bowl, combine the 3/4 cup firmly packed light brown sugar with 1/3 cup raisins (if using), 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon, and 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt. Stir well to distribute the spices and salt evenly.
- Assemble the Brown Betty layers: In the prepared baking dish, layer half of the apples evenly. Sprinkle half of the brown sugar spice mixture over the apples, followed by half of the croissant crumb and butter mixture. Repeat these layers with the remaining apples, brown sugar mixture, and crumb topping.
- Bake covered: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap steam and bake in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes, allowing the apples to soften thoroughly and the flavors to meld.
- Bake uncovered for finishing: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 8 to 10 minutes. This step crisps and browns the croissant crumb topping while the apples become jammy and fragrant.
- Serve warm: Let the Brown Betty cool slightly, then serve warm with generous scoops of vanilla ice cream for a classic and comforting dessert experience.
Notes
- Using day-old croissants gives a richer, flakier crumb compared to regular bread crumbs.
- Raisins are optional but add a nice chewy texture and natural sweetness.
- If you prefer a less sweet dessert, reduce the amount of brown sugar or omit the granulated sugar in the crumb topping.
- This dessert can be made ahead and reheated in the oven before serving.
- Make sure to seal the baking dish tightly with foil for the initial baking to retain moisture and soften the apples well.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (about 1/6th of recipe)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
