INGREDIENTS
For the crisp topping:
1 cup all-purpose flour
2/3 cup packed dark brown sugar
3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/8 teaspoon salt
8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter, cut into 1/2-inch pieces and chilled
For the apple filling:
2 pounds firm, sweet apples (4 to 5 medium-large apples)
Up to 1/4 cup water
For serving (optional):
Vanilla ice cream or heavy cream
Equipment:8-inch-square baking dish, preferably ceramic, glass, enamel-coated cast-iron, or stainless steel (avoid aluminum or uncoated cast-iron)