Description of this recipe
Caramel Apple Crisp is a delicious blend of tart and sweet flavors, featuring tender apples coated in warm spices, topped with a crunchy oat crumble, and finished with a drizzle of rich caramel sauce. This dessert is the epitome of comfort food, perfect for cozy evenings or festive gatherings.
Why you will love this recipe
This Caramel Apple Crisp merges the classic flavors of a traditional apple crisp with luxurious caramel drizzles. It’s easy to prepare and requires only a handful of ingredients, making it accessible for both novice and experienced bakers. The combination of warm apples, a crunchy topping, and the option to serve it warm with vanilla ice cream will leave you wanting more. Plus, it’s a delightful way to highlight the seasonal bounty of apples, making it perfect for fall but enjoyable year-round.
Introduction
As the leaves change and the air turns crisp, there’s nothing quite like the aroma of a freshly baked Caramel Apple Crisp wafting through your home. This dessert not only showcases the bounty of fall’s apple harvest but also brings together comforting ingredients that evoke memories of family gatherings and holiday celebrations. The warm apples blend effortlessly with cinnamon and nutmeg, while the sweet, compact crumble topping adds a delightful texture. Topped with gooey caramel and a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream, it’s a dessert that offers indulgence in every bite. Let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your household!
Ingredients:
For the apple filling:
- 6 medium apples (choose a mix of Granny Smith for tartness and Honeycrisp for sweetness), peeled, cored, and sliced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
For the crumble topping:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For garnish:
- Extra caramel sauce (for drizzling)
- Vanilla ice cream (optional but recommended)
Preparation:
Step 1:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure an easy serving later.
Step 2:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced apples with lemon juice to prevent browning. Add in the granulated sugar, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg. Toss well until the apples are thoroughly coated in the sugary spice mixture. Transfer the apples to the prepared baking dish, spreading them out evenly. Drizzle the caramel sauce over the top, ensuring an enticing caramel flavor in every bite.
Step 3:
In a separate bowl, prepare the crumble topping. Mix the all-purpose flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and salt until well combined. Pour the melted butter over the dry ingredients and mix with a fork or your fingers until the mixture is crumbly and holds together when squeezed.
Step 4:
Evenly sprinkle the crumble topping over the caramel-coated apples in the baking dish, ensuring that the apples are well masked beneath a delicious blanket of crumble.
Step 5:
Bake the crisp in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the apples are tender, and the topping has turned a golden brown. If the topping browns too quickly, loosely cover the dish with aluminum foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.
COOKING Rating:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5) – This recipe is simple yet satisfying, perfect for a family dessert or a gathering with friends.
Serving Suggestions:
Allow the Caramel Apple Crisp to cool for a few minutes before serving. Drizzle extra caramel sauce on top and serve warm alongside a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream. For an added touch, consider garnishing with chopped nuts or a sprinkle of sea salt for a delightful contrast to the sweetness.
Tips:
- Apple Selection: Use a mix of sweet and tart apples for a more complex flavor.
- Make Ahead: This apple crisp can be assembled in advance and baked just before serving, making it perfect for entertaining.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated in the oven (or microwave) the next day.
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cook Time:
45 minutes
Total Time:
1 hour
Nutritional Information (per serving, about 1/8 of the dish):
- Calories: Approximately 380 kcal
- Protein: 4g
- Sodium: 150mg
Conclusion
Caramel Apple Crisp is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors, warmth, and nostalgia. It’s an easy-to-make recipe that promises to impress your family and friends, encapsulating the essence of comfort and indulgence. Each bite brings together the sweetness of apples, the richness of caramel, and the satisfying crunch of the oat topping, creating a combination that is simply irresistible. So why not grab some apples and get started? Your taste buds will thank you!
Questions and Answers about this recipe:
1. Can I use frozen apples for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen apples, but it’s best to thaw them first and drain excess moisture to avoid a soggy crisp.
2. Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute the unsalted butter with a vegan butter alternative and use coconut sugar instead of brown sugar for a vegan-friendly dessert.
3. How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes.
4. Can I add nuts to the crumble topping?
Yes, adding chopped pecans or walnuts can enhance the flavor and texture. Just combine them with the crumble mixture before baking.
5. How can I make this recipe more decadent?
For a richer flavor, try adding chocolate chips to the crumble topping or serve the crisp with whipped cream in addition to vanilla ice cream.
This Caramel Apple Crisp is not just delightful but also adaptable, ensuring satisfaction for all palates! Happy baking!
