Caramel Apple Crisp is the epitome of comfort food, blending the sweet, tart flavors of luscious apples with the rich, buttery notes of caramel and a crunchy oat topping. This delightful dessert is not only a treat for your taste buds but also fills your home with an irresistible aroma that signals the arrival of fall. It’s perfect for cozy gatherings, holiday dinners, or simply when you want to indulge in something warm and delicious.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will absolutely love this caramel apple crisp recipe because it captures the essence of autumn in every bite. The contrast between the tender apples, gooey caramel, and crispy oat topping creates a symphony of flavors and textures that is simply irresistible. Plus, this recipe is straightforward and easy to make, making it perfect for both novice and experienced bakers. With only a handful of ingredients, you can whip up this delightful dessert that fits seamlessly into a busy lifestyle. Moreover, it’s a crowd-pleaser, making it an excellent choice for family gatherings or potlucks.
Tips and Tricks
- Use a mix of sweet and tart apples for the best flavor profile; Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are fantastic choices.
- To make the caramel sauce extra rich, consider adding a pinch of sea salt for a salted caramel twist.
- If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought caramel sauce instead of making your own.
- For added crunch, sprinkle some chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts into the oat topping.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the apple filling and caramel sauce ahead of time. Store the apple mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. The caramel sauce can also be made and stored in the fridge for about a week. When you’re ready to bake, simply layer the ingredients in a baking dish and top with the oat mixture before popping it in the oven.
Recipe Variations
- For a twist on flavors, consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to your apple filling.
- You can substitute the oats with a gluten-free blend to make this dessert gluten-free.
- Try adding other fruits like pears or cranberries for a different flavor profile.
- For those who love chocolate, drizzle some melted chocolate over the top once it’s cooled for a decadent touch.
How to Serve
Serve your caramel apple crisp warm from the oven, ideally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top. For a nice presentation, drizzle some extra caramel sauce over the ice cream and sprinkle with chopped nuts. Serve it in individual ramekins for a charming touch or in a large dish for everyone to share.
Pairing Suggestions
Pair this caramel apple crisp with a sweet dessert wine like Riesling or a creamy vanilla latte for a contrasting drink. A side of spiced apple cider or a scoop of homemade vanilla ice cream complements the dish perfectly. For an additional dessert option, consider serving it alongside a pumpkin pie or pecan tart for a festive spread.
How to Store
To store leftovers, allow the caramel apple crisp to cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, place it in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
Equipment Needed
- A large mixing bowl for combining the ingredients.
- A 9×13 inch baking dish for baking the crisp.
- A sharp knife and cutting board for slicing the apples.
- If making your own caramel, a saucepan is necessary for cooking the sugar.
Dietary Adaptations
To make this recipe vegan, substitute the butter with coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative, and use a plant-based caramel sauce. For a nut-free version, simply omit any nuts from the topping and ensure your caramel sauce is nut-free. To make it dairy-free, use dairy-free ice cream as a topping.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the summer, consider using fresh peaches or berries to create a summer fruit crisp. During the winter months, you can incorporate cranberries or citrus fruits for a refreshing twist. Adjust the spices accordingly to match the season—think pumpkin spice in the fall or warm ginger in the winter.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use frozen apples? While fresh apples are recommended for the best texture, you can use frozen apples if necessary. Just ensure they are thawed and drained before using to avoid excess moisture.
- How long do I bake the crisp? Bake it for about 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are bubbly.
- Can I substitute the oats? Yes, you can use crushed graham crackers or a gluten-free oat blend if desired.
Caramel Apple Crisp
Caramel Apple Crisp is the epitome of comfort food, blending the sweet, tart flavors of luscious apples with the rich, buttery notes of caramel and a crunchy oat topping.
Ingredients
- 6 cups of peeled and sliced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine sliced apples and lemon juice. Toss to coat evenly.
- Add granulated sugar and cinnamon to the apple mixture, stirring to combine.
- Transfer the apple mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Drizzle half of the caramel sauce over the apple mixture.
- In another bowl, mix together oats, flour, brown sugar, and salt. Pour in the melted butter and stir until crumbly.
- Sprinkle the oat topping evenly over the apples.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are bubbling.
- Remove from the oven and drizzle the remaining caramel sauce over the top.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Nutrition Information
Yield
8Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 472Total Fat 12gSaturated Fat 7gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 4gCholesterol 31mgSodium 213mgCarbohydrates 91gFiber 4gSugar 69gProtein 4g
TastyFitnessRecipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although tastyfitnessrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Making this caramel apple crisp recipe is a delightful way to celebrate the flavors of fall. It brings a sense of nostalgia and warmth, perfect for sharing with family and friends. With its straightforward preparation and endless variations, you can truly make it your own. Enjoy every bite, and don’t forget to savor the moments spent around the table!