If you’re looking for the ultimate cozy dessert that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Caramel Apple Crisp Recipe is going to be your new best friend. It perfectly balances tart Granny Smith apples with the richness of smooth caramel and a buttery, crunchy oat topping that makes every bite irresistible. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this dessert combines comforting flavors and simple ingredients in a way that feels both nostalgic and special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to making this Caramel Apple Crisp Recipe truly shine. Each component plays a vital role, from the crispness of Granny Smith apples to the caramel sauce that brings everything together with a luscious sweetness.
- Granny Smith apples: Six large, peeled and sliced apples provide a tart foundation that balances the sweetness perfectly.
- Granulated sugar: Adds just enough sweetness to the apples to bring out their natural flavor.
- Ground cinnamon: A classic spice that offers warmth and depth to the apple mixture.
- Ground nutmeg: Just a hint for subtle aromatic layering.
- Lemon juice: Keeps the apples from browning and adds a bright note.
- Old-fashioned rolled oats: For that perfectly textured, crisp topping that’s both hearty and crunchy.
- All-purpose flour: Helps bind the topping and create the crumbly texture.
- Light brown sugar: Packed tightly to add moisture and rich caramel notes to the topping.
- Unsalted butter: Melted for a luscious, golden crust that crisps beautifully in the oven.
- Salt: A pinch to balance sweetness and deepen flavors.
- Caramel sauce: Half a cup, either store-bought or homemade, to drizzle over the crisp for that irresistible caramel charm.
How to Make Caramel Apple Crisp Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly so nothing sticks and cleanup is easier. This sets the stage for your crisp to bake evenly and come out golden every time.
Step 2: Toss the Apples with Spices
In a large bowl, combine those freshly sliced Granny Smith apples with granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Make sure every apple slice is lovingly coated so each bite bursts with warm, spicy sweet-tart flavor. Then spread this vibrant mixture evenly in your prepared baking dish.
Step 3: Make the Crisp Topping
In a separate bowl, mix rolled oats, all-purpose flour, light brown sugar, melted butter, and a pinch of salt. Stir until you get coarse crumbs that look like a golden sandy texture. This is where the magic happens—this crumbly topping will bake into a perfect crunchy layer that contrasts beautifully with the juicy apples.
Step 4: Assemble and Drizzle Caramel
Sprinkle the crumbly topping evenly over the apple layer in the dish. Now for the fun part—drizzle the caramel sauce over the top. This will melt into the oats and apples as it bakes, adding bursts of sweet, buttery caramel that takes this crisp from wonderful to unforgettable.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place your baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes. You’re looking for a golden-brown topping and tender apples that easily yield to a fork. That golden crust and bubbling caramel aroma will fill your kitchen with cozy vibes.
Step 6: Cool and Serve Warm
Let the crisp cool for a few minutes. Serving it warm is key to enjoying the gooey caramel and the tender, spiced apples at their best. Pair it with vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a dreamy finish.
How to Serve Caramel Apple Crisp Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped toasted pecans or walnuts adds a lovely crunch and an earthy nuttiness that complements the sweet caramel beautifully. Freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream elevates the experience, melting over the warm crisp for a luscious contrast.
Side Dishes
This dessert is so rich and satisfying it often stands perfectly on its own, but if you’re aiming for a heartier meal, serve it after a simple roast chicken or a light autumnal salad. The warm spices in the crisp pair nicely with savory fall flavors and balance out the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming twist, serve individual portions in ramekins or small mason jars. Drizzle just before serving with extra caramel sauce or even a sprinkle of flaky sea salt to highlight the caramel notes. These little touches make this Caramel Apple Crisp Recipe feel extra special for guests or celebrations.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover crisp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, though the topping might soften slightly. Reheating will help bring back some of that delightful crunch.
Freezing
This recipe freezes well if you want to prepare it in advance. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and a layer of foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat your crisp in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through and the topping regains its crispness. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that crunchy texture intact.
FAQs
Can I use other types of apples for this recipe?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples offer tartness that balances the sweetness, you can mix in softer varieties like Fuji or Honeycrisp for a sweeter, more tender crisp. Just keep in mind that softer apples cook faster and may affect texture.
Is it best to use homemade caramel sauce or store-bought?
Both work beautifully. Homemade caramel adds a personal touch and rich flavor, but good-quality store-bought caramel saves time and still tastes fantastic. Choose whatever fits your schedule and taste preference.
Can I make this dessert vegan?
Yes! Swap out the butter for a plant-based alternative and use a vegan caramel sauce. Make sure your sugar is vegan-friendly, and you’ll have a delicious vegan version of this classic Caramel Apple Crisp Recipe.
What is the best way to peel and slice apples efficiently?
Using a sharp paring knife or a vegetable peeler makes quick work of peeling. For slicing, a mandoline or apple slicer ensures even, thin slices that cook evenly and look beautiful in the final dish.
Can I add nuts or dried fruits to the topping?
Definitely! Adding chopped pecans, walnuts, or even dried cranberries or raisins can add layers of texture and flavor. Just mix them into the oat topping before baking for a delightful twist.
Final Thoughts
There is something undeniably comforting and joyful about making and savoring this Caramel Apple Crisp Recipe. It’s one of those dishes that brings warmth to your kitchen and smiles to the faces around your table. So grab those apples, warm up your oven, and dive into the delightful world of caramel, spice, and crisp oat topping—you won’t regret it!
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Caramel Apple Crisp Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 to 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This delicious Caramel Apple Crisp features tender, cinnamon-spiced Granny Smith apples baked under a buttery oat and brown sugar topping, drizzled with rich caramel sauce. Perfectly balanced with a hint of nutmeg and fresh lemon juice, this classic dessert is ideal for cozy gatherings and seasonal celebrations.
Ingredients
For the Apple Filling
- 6 large Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
For the Crisp Topping
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Additional
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Mix the Apple Filling: In a large bowl, toss the sliced Granny Smith apples with granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and lemon juice. Make sure all the apple slices are evenly coated to infuse flavor and prevent browning. Spread this mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Prepare the Crisp Topping: In a separate bowl, combine the rolled oats, all-purpose flour, light brown sugar, melted unsalted butter, and salt. Stir the ingredients thoroughly until the mixture reaches a coarse, crumbly texture, which will create the crisp topping.
- Assemble the Crisp: Evenly sprinkle the oat topping over the apple mixture in the baking dish. Then drizzle the caramel sauce evenly over the top of the crisp mixture for a rich, sweet finish.
- Bake the Crisp: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes. Bake until the topping turns golden brown and the apples are tender when tested with a fork, indicating they are perfectly cooked.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the apple crisp from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Serve warm, optionally accompanied by vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra indulgent touch.
Notes
- For added texture and flavor, consider adding chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the topping mixture.
- Using Granny Smith apples helps maintain a tart balance against the sweet caramel and brown sugar toppings.
- Ensure apples are sliced uniformly for even cooking.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently before serving.
- To make this dessert vegan, substitute butter with a plant-based alternative and use vegan caramel sauce.
