Mini Apple Crisp

My list of things to love about autumn is getting so long! All the beautiful colors, falling leaves, pumpkins, soup, spices, scented candles, cuddling under warm blankets, the first frost, foggy mornings, crisp sunshine, and...apples. The smell of apples- fresh apples, cooked apples, overripe wild apples dropping to the ground to be harvested by hungry winter-wary animals. The look of apples, not-quite-round and shiny, coming in just as many shades as the leaves that are already dropping from the trees along the river. The taste of apples- crisp and fresh, varying as much in texture and flavor as they do in autumnal hues, ranging from sweet and mellow to tangy and downright sour.
Several days ago, in a quandary over what to make for National Dessert Day (thank you to whomever began this  wonderful excuse to whip up something sweet!), I decided I must use my newly purchased little ramekins. I debated over the ideas of custards and souffles and creme brulees, but my mind kept wandering back to the thought of an adorable and simple little apple crisp. Perfect! I was also sick with a cold, so minimal effort and homey comfort was especially appealing.
The crisps were delightfully cute- and a delicious taste of fall in every bite!

Aren't they cute? :)

Miniature Apple Crisp
(printable version)

makes 4 individual servings (I think my ramekins are 4 oz. If you have larger ones, this will probably only serve 2)
a KitchenJoy original recipe

1-1/2 Granny Smith apples, peeled and cut into small cubes

2-3 TB half and half cream

2-3 TB sugar

cinnamon

nutmeg

Topping:

2 TB oats

2 TB brown sugar

2 TB flour

2 TB butter, softened

cinnamon

nutmeg

Preheat oven to 375. Lightly grease ramekins. Mix apples, cream, sugar and spices (to taste). Divide apple mixture evenly among ramekins. Mix oats, brown sugar, flour and spices (to taste) together; cut in butter. Sprinkle mixture evenly over apples. Place ramekins on a baking sheet and bake for 25-35 min., or until topping is browned and apples are tender and bubbly. Enjoy!