Introduction
Delight in the harmonious marriage of sweet, tangy apples, buttery crisp topping, and indulgent salted caramel with Salted Caramel Apple Crisp. This comforting dessert encapsulates the essence of fall, offering a medley of flavors that dance on your taste buds with each spoonful.
For Whom and Why It’s Great
Perfect for those seeking a comforting dessert that embodies the warmth of the season, Salted Caramel Apple Crisp is an ideal choice for family gatherings, festive occasions, or simply when you desire a taste of cozy indulgence. It caters to dessert aficionados, apple lovers, and anyone craving a comforting treat.
Ingredients
The magic of Salted Caramel Apple Crisp lies in its simple yet essential components:
For the Filling:
- 6 cups of apples (peeled, cored, and thinly sliced)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
For the Crisp Topping:
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (cold, cut into small cubes)
For the Salted Caramel Sauce:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (cubed)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon sea salt flakes (adjust to taste)
Directions
Creating this comforting dessert is a delightful process:
Preparing the Filling:
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Toss until the apples are evenly coated. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
Making the Crisp Topping:
- Mix the Ingredients: In another bowl, mix the oats, flour, brown sugar, and salt. Add the cold cubed butter and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to combine until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Top the Apples: Sprinkle the crisp topping evenly over the apple mixture in the baking dish.
Baking the Crisp:
- Bake to Perfection: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes or until the topping is golden brown, and the apples are tender and bubbling.
Crafting the Salted Caramel Sauce:
- Heat Sugar: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the granulated sugar. Stir occasionally until it turns into a golden amber color.
- Add Butter and Cream: Carefully add the cubed butter while stirring continuously. Slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring until well combined.
- Add Salt: Remove from heat and stir in the sea salt flakes. Adjust to taste.
Serving the Crisp:
- Drizzle with Caramel: Once the Salted Caramel Apple Crisp is baked and slightly cooled, drizzle the salted caramel sauce generously over the top.
- Serve Warm: Serve portions of this delightful dessert warm, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Kitchen Equipment
To prepare this comforting dessert, gather these kitchen essentials:
- Baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Saucepan
- Whisk or spoon for stirring
Storage
If there are any leftovers (though it’s often devoured quickly!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat individual servings in the microwave for a warm, comforting treat.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this delectable Salted Caramel Apple Crisp with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful contrast of temperatures and flavors. A sprinkle of additional sea salt flakes over the top can intensify the salted caramel essence.
Recipe Swaps and Variations
Feel free to experiment with different types of apples or add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the crisp topping for added texture and flavor. You can also infuse the caramel sauce with a hint of cinnamon or a splash of apple cider for a seasonal twist.
Conclusion
Indulge in the comforting embrace of Salted Caramel Apple Crisp—a divine fusion of tender apples, crisp topping, and luscious salted caramel that warms the soul and delights the senses. Share this recipe with friends and family to spread the joy of this delightful fall dessert. Embrace the cozy flavors and relish each spoonful of this comforting treat!