Caramel Apple Crisp with Oatmeal Crumble

Introduction

Caramel Apple Crisp with Oatmeal Crumble is the ultimate fall dessert—warm, sweet, and comforting. Juicy, spiced apples are topped with a crunchy, buttery oatmeal crumble and drizzled with rich caramel sauce. This dessert is perfect for cozy evenings, holiday gatherings, or any time you crave a warm, homey treat.

The combination of tender baked apples, cinnamon-spiced sugar, and an oat-studded topping creates a balance of textures and flavors that’s irresistible. The caramel drizzle adds a luxurious sweetness that elevates the dish, making it feel indulgent without being overly complicated. Baking this dessert fills your kitchen with the warm aroma of apples, cinnamon, and butter—a true hallmark of autumn comfort food.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s simple yet indulgent. The contrast between the soft, sweet apples and the crunchy oatmeal topping is heavenly, and the caramel sauce adds a touch of decadence. It’s versatile—perfect on its own, or served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.

It’s also nostalgic, reminding me of cozy family gatherings and fall celebrations. The recipe is forgiving and easy to customize with different apple varieties or spices, which makes it perfect for both novice bakers and experienced cooks.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

• Perfect balance of textures: Tender, juicy apples with crisp, buttery topping.
• Seasonal flavors: Apples, cinnamon, and caramel capture the essence of fall.
• Easy to make: Simple ingredients, straightforward steps.
• Crowd-pleaser: Loved by kids and adults alike.
• Versatile: Can be served warm, cold, or with ice cream for added indulgence.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Servings: 8
• Calories: ~360 per serving

Course & Cuisine

• Course: Dessert
• Cuisine: American / Comfort Food

Ingredients

For the Apple Filling:

• 6 cups peeled and sliced apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or your choice)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

For the Oatmeal Crumble:

• 1 cup old-fashioned oats
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Caramel Drizzle:

• ½ cup store-bought or homemade caramel sauce

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.

Step 2: Prepare the Apple Filling

1. In a large bowl, toss apple slices with granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and flour.
2. Spread the apple mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.

Step 3: Prepare the Oatmeal Crumble

1. In a separate bowl, combine oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
2. Stir in melted butter until mixture is crumbly and well combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Crisp

• Sprinkle the oatmeal crumble evenly over the apple filling.

Step 5: Bake

• Bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes, until the topping is golden brown and the apples are tender.

Step 6: Add Caramel

• Remove from oven and drizzle caramel sauce over the warm crisp before serving.

How to Serve

• Serve warm, straight from the oven, for the best flavor and texture.
• Pair with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a dollop of Greek yogurt.
• Optional: Garnish with toasted nuts for added crunch.

Recipe Tips

• Use a mix of tart and sweet apples for a balanced flavor.
• Don’t overmix the crumble; it should remain crumbly, not doughy.
• For a deeper flavor, add a pinch of ground cloves or allspice to the apples.
• If topping starts to brown too quickly, cover loosely with foil.
• Let the crisp cool for 10–15 minutes before serving to allow juices to thicken slightly.

Variations

• Pear Crisp: Substitute pears for apples or use a mix.
• Nutty Topping: Add chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds to the crumble.
• Maple Caramel: Use maple syrup in the caramel sauce for a rich flavor.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free oats and flour in the crumble.
• Spiced Crisp: Add ginger, cardamom, or pumpkin pie spice for a unique twist.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze unbaked crisp for up to 2 months. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil; bake from frozen, adding 10–15 extra minutes.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes before serving.

Special Equipment Needed

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• Spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

FAQ

Q1: Can I use frozen apples?
Yes, but thaw and drain excess liquid before baking to prevent soggy crisp.

Q2: Can I make the caramel from scratch?
Absolutely! A simple caramel sauce with sugar, butter, and cream works perfectly.

Q3: Can I prepare it ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the crisp and store uncovered in the fridge for a few hours before baking.

Q4: How do I make the topping extra crunchy?
Add ¼ cup chopped nuts or sprinkle a little extra brown sugar over the crumble before baking.

Conclusion

Caramel Apple Crisp with Oatmeal Crumble is a warm, comforting, and irresistible dessert perfect for fall and winter. Sweet, tender apples, a crunchy oat topping, and decadent caramel make every bite delightful.

This dessert is easy to prepare, crowd-pleasing, and versatile, making it a must-try for anyone who loves classic American comfort desserts.