7. Caramel Apple Crisp with Cinnamon Oat Topping
This Caramel Apple Crisp delivers the ultimate cozy autumn experience, layering tender, spiced apples with a rich, buttery caramel sauce. A generously applied topping of cinnamon-infused oats bakes up perfectly golden and delightfully crunchy, contrasting beautifully with the soft, bubbling fruit beneath. For the best texture, be sure to use a mix of firm and slightly softer apples so you get both structure and melt-in-your-mouth tenderness in every spoonful. This rustic dessert is fantastic served warm straight from the oven with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream.
Ingredients
- 6 medium apples
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 cup caramel sauce
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Directions
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x9-inch baking dish.
In a large bowl, combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice; toss until coated.
Spread the apple mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish and drizzle caramel sauce over the apples.
In a separate bowl, mix oats, flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
Stir melted butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture is crumbly.
Sprinkle the topping evenly over the apple mixture.
Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown.
Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream and an extra drizzle of caramel sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best types of apples to use for this Caramel Apple Crisp recipe?
For the best texture in this crisp, choose firm, slightly tart apples that hold their shape well during baking, such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn. Since the recipe calls for 6 medium apples, using a mix of tart and sweet varieties will create a balanced flavor profile after baking for 40 minutes at 350°F.
Can I make this Caramel Apple Crisp ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble this crisp up to 24 hours in advance. Prepare the apple filling and the cinnamon oat topping separately, combine them in the 9x9-inch baking dish, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Allow it to sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
How should I properly store leftovers of this Caramel Apple Crisp?
Once cooled, store any leftover Caramel Apple Crisp covered tightly at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the oven at 300°F until warmed through to enjoy that delicious caramel and cinnamon oat topping again.
