Get ready to indulge in the ultimate fall dessert with my irresistible caramel apple crisp recipe. This classic treat combines the sweet tanginess of apples with the rich flavor of salted caramel, creating a mouthwatering symphony of tastes and textures.
Whether you opt for a homemade salted caramel sauce or a store-bought version, the key lies in the perfect balance of flavors and the right apple slices – not too thin to avoid sogginess. This dessert is best enjoyed warm on the day it’s made, but leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
With just 15 minutes of prep work, you can treat yourself to a delicious caramel apple crisp that’s guaranteed to be a hit at any gathering. So, grab your baking dish and get ready to create a dessert that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
For the Apple Filling
- 10 Cups Granny Smith or other baking Apples (about 7-8 large apples)
- 1/2 Cup granulated white sugar
- 2 Tablespoons All-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon cardamom (optional)
For the Caramel Sauce
- 1 cup apple cider
- 14-16 caramels, unwrapped and melted
- 2 Tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 Cup quick-cooking oats
- 1 Cup All-Purpose Flour
- 1 Cup packed brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 8 Tablespoons Caramel Ice Cream Topping
Equipment Needed
When preparing this delightful caramel apple crisp recipe, there are a few essential kitchen tools and equipment that will make the process smoother and more enjoyable. Here is a list of what you will need:
Kitchen Equipment:
- Saucepan: You will need a saucepan to heat the apple mixture and cider, allowing the apples to soften and the mixture to thicken.
- Baking Dish: Prepare a baking dish to spoon the caramel apple mixture into before baking.
- Oven: Ensure your oven is preheated to the specified temperature for baking the caramel apple crisp to perfection.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for the apple filling, caramel sauce, and crisp topping ingredients.
- Mixing Bowls: Have mixing bowls ready for combining the apple filling ingredients and preparing the crisp topping.
- Wooden Spoon: A wooden spoon will come in handy for stirring the apple mixture and crispy topping.
Having these basic kitchen tools and utensils at hand will help you effortlessly create this irresistible caramel apple crisp.
Preparation Steps
When getting ready to make this delicious caramel apple crisp, the preparation steps are key to ensuring a flavorful and satisfying dessert. Follow these steps to create a perfect balance of flavors and a delightful crunchy topping that complements the soft and sweet apple filling.
Preparing the Apple Filling
To start, it’s essential to have your apple filling ready to go before you move on to the other components of the dessert.
- Peel, core, and slice your Granny Smith apples into half-inch thick wedges.
- Toss the apple slices with lemon juice, sugar, cinnamon, and a touch of flour in a bowl until evenly coated.
- In a saucepan, heat apple cider and the apple mixture over medium heat for around 10-15 minutes until the apples soften slightly and the mixture thickens.
Making the Caramel Sauce
The caramel sauce adds a rich and decadent layer to the apple crisp, providing a perfect contrast to the tartness of the apples.
- If using caramels, melt them with a tablespoon of water in a separate saucepan.
- Stir the melted caramel sauce into the apple mixture, ensuring it’s evenly distributed for that sweet and gooey touch.
Mixing the Crisp Topping
The crisp topping is what gives the dessert its delightful crunch and texture, so make sure to follow these steps for a perfect finish.
- Combine flour, oats, sugar, cinnamon, brown sugar, and salt in a bowl for the topping mixture.
- Stir in melted butter until the mixture is crumbly and moistened.
- Sprinkle the topping evenly over the apple and caramel filling before baking for that irresistible crispy finish.
Baking Instructions
Assembling the Layers
I start by heating the apple mixture and cider in a saucepan over medium heat for about 10-15 minutes until the apples are softened. Once the mixture has thickened, I melt the Brach’s caramel candies with a tablespoon of water in a separate saucepan. Afterward, I combine the caramel sauce with the apple mixture and spoon it into my baking dish.
Baking Time and Temperature
To achieve the perfect apple crisp, I bake the assembled dessert at 350°F (175°C) for around 45-50 minutes. The apples should be tender-crisp when pierced with a fork. After baking, I allow the crisp to cool for 15-20 minutes before serving. This cooling time helps the filling thicken and prevents guests from burning their mouths in their eagerness to dig in.
Serving Suggestions
When serving this delectable caramel apple crisp, consider adding a dollop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of heavy cream to enhance the dessert’s creamy richness and contrast the warm, spiced flavors of the apple filling and caramel sauce. These complementing elements elevate the dessert and provide a delightful balance of flavors and textures.
Ideal Accompaniments
Pair this caramel apple crisp with a hot cup of freshly brewed coffee or a steaming mug of spiced apple cider for a cozy and comforting fall dessert experience. The warm beverage will intensify the comforting aromas of cinnamon, caramel, and baked apples in the dish, creating a harmonious and indulgent treat for any occasion.
Storage Tips
To preserve the deliciousness of your caramel apple crisp, follow these simple storage tips:
- Room Temperature: If you plan to enjoy the apple crisp within the next day or two, you can store it at room temperature. Cover the dish with aluminum foil or plastic wrap to protect it from drying out. Make sure to place it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
- Refrigeration: For longer storage, you can refrigerate the caramel apple crisp. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or transfer individual portions to airtight containers before refrigerating. Properly stored, the apple crisp can last in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: If you want to enjoy the caramel apple crisp at a later time, freezing is an excellent option. Ensure the dish is completely cooled before freezing. Wrap the dish securely with plastic wrap and aluminum foil or transfer individual portions to freezer-safe containers. Frozen caramel apple crisp can stay good for up to 3 months.
Following these storage tips will help maintain the flavor and texture of your caramel apple crisp, allowing you to enjoy this delightful dessert even days after it’s freshly baked.
Conclusion
Creating a delectable caramel apple crisp is a delightful way to savor the flavors of fall. By carefully selecting the right apples and achieving a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, you can indulge in a decadent dessert experience. Whether enjoyed with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a warm cup of coffee, this treat is sure to please your taste buds. Remember to follow the storage tips to keep your apple crisp fresh and delicious for days to come. With a little effort and attention to detail, you can enjoy the rich, comforting flavors of caramel apple crisp whenever the craving strikes.