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Caramel Apple Dessert: The Ultimate Fall Treat

Warm caramel apple dessert with a sweet oat crumble topping. Serve with vanilla ice cream!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 68 medium Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, and sliced about 1/4 inch thick
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour (for the crumble topping)
  • 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar (for the crumble topping)
  • 1/2 cup rolled oats (for the crumble topping)
  • 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes (for the crumble topping)
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional, for the crumble topping)
  • 1 jar (12 ounces) caramel sauce, divided
  • Vanilla ice cream, for serving (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Apple Filling: In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Toss gently to coat. Set aside.
  2. Make the Crumble Topping: In a separate bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, and rolled oats. Add the cold, cubed butter. Using a pastry blender or your fingertips, cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the chopped pecans or walnuts, if using.
  3. Assemble and Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  4. Pour the apple mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Drizzle about half of the caramel sauce (approximately 6 ounces) evenly over the apples.
  5. Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the caramel-covered apples.
  6. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are tender.
  7. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
  8. Serve: Drizzle the remaining caramel sauce over the warm dessert. Serve warm, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, if desired.

Notes

  • Apple Variety: You can use other tart apples, such as Honeycrisp or Braeburn.
  • Spice It Up: Adjust the amount of cinnamon and nutmeg to your liking. You can also add a pinch of ground cloves or allspice.
  • Nutty Goodness: Use almonds or hazelnuts instead of pecans or walnuts, or omit the nuts altogether.
  • Caramel Options: Use store-bought or homemade caramel sauce.
  • Crumbly Variations: For a crispier topping, add a tablespoon or two of cornstarch to the crumble mixture.
  • Individual Servings: Bake in individual ramekins and reduce baking time.
  • Make Ahead: Prepare the apple filling and crumble topping ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
  • Vegan Option: Use a vegan butter substitute and vegan caramel sauce.