The Perfect Salted Caramel Apple Crumble
If you’re looking for the ultimate fall dessert, this Salted Caramel Apple Crumble is a must-try. With its cozy combination of sweet apples, warm spices, and buttery crumble, it truly captures the essence of the season. Whether you’re entertaining friends or just craving a comforting treat for yourself, this easy-to-make recipe is sure to impress.
What makes this recipe stand out is the salted caramel sauce. By adding it to the filling, it gives the apples a rich, decadent flavor with a perfect balance of sweetness and saltiness. Additionally, the crumble topping adds a satisfying crunch that perfectly complements the tender apple filling.
One of the best things about this recipe is how simple it is to make. You only need a handful of pantry staples to bring it together, and the prep time is minimal. While the apples bake, they soften perfectly, becoming juicy and infused with the warm flavors of cinnamon and nutmeg. At the same time, the golden, crispy topping forms a delicious contrast that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
In addition, this dessert works beautifully for any occasion. Whether it’s a holiday dinner, a cozy night in, or a special celebration, it’s always a great choice. Serve it warm with a generous drizzle of caramel sauce and a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and you have a show-stopping dish that’s both elegant and easy to prepare. Furthermore, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that feels special yet doesn’t require hours in the kitchen.
So, whether you’re celebrating the holidays, enjoying a relaxing evening, or simply treating yourself, this Salted Caramel Apple Crumble is the perfect choice. It’s straightforward, delicious, and guaranteed to become a favorite for years to come.
INGREDIENTS
For the Filling:
1/3 cup light brown sugar, packed
4 cups peeled and thinly sliced apples (Granny Smith preferred)
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
1/4 tsp fine sea salt
1 tbsp all-purpose flour
1/4 cup salted caramel sauce (plus more for drizzling)
For the Crumble Topping:
1/2 cup rolled oats
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/3 cup light brown sugar, packed
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 tsp fine sea salt
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even cooking and a golden topping.
2. Prepare the filling: In a large bowl, mix the brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and flour. Add the sliced apples and toss until they are evenly coated. Drizzle the caramel sauce over the mixture and gently toss again to combine.
3. Prepare the baking dish: Lightly butter an 8×8-inch dish to prevent sticking. Then, spread the apple mixture evenly to ensure even baking.
4. Make the crumble topping: Mix oats, flour, sugars, and salt in a bowl. Pour in melted butter and stir with a fork until crumbly.
5. Add topping to apples: Sprinkle the crumble evenly over the apple mixture, covering it completely.
6. Bake the crumble: Place in the oven for 35–40 minutes until the topping is golden and the filling bubbles at the edges.
7. Let cool: Allow the crumble to cool for 10 minutes to set before serving.
8. Serve and enjoy: Drizzle extra caramel over each portion and add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a perfect finish.
Helpful Tips to Perfect This Recipe
- Choose the Right Apples: Use a mix of tart and sweet apples, such as Granny Smith and Honeycrisp, for a more complex flavor and texture. This balance prevents the filling from being too sweet or too sour.
- Keep the Topping Crumbly: Mix the crumble topping just until it forms coarse crumbs. Avoid over-mixing, as this can result in a dough-like texture instead of the signature crumbly finish.
- Bake Until Bubbly: Ensure the filling is bubbling at the edges and the topping is golden brown before removing it from the oven. This indicates the apples are fully cooked and the juices have thickened properly.