Best Easy Caramel Apple Crisp Recipe with with Toasted Oat Crumble
There is nothing quite like the aroma of cinnamon and baked apples filling the home to signal the start of cozy season. This Caramel Apple Crisp takes the classic, old-fashioned dessert and elevates it with a rich, buttery oat crumble and a decadent caramel finish. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or just craving a warm weeknight treat, this simple 9×13 recipe delivers the perfect balance of tart fruit and sweet, crunchy topping.
Ingredients You Need
- 6 medium apples (I like Granny Smith for that tart punch)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp nutmeg (optional but makes it smell like magic)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (extra for the topping)
- 1/2 cup cold butter, cut into small cubes
- Caramel sauce for drizzling
Step by Step Instructions
1. Prepare Apples
- Preheat Oven: Set the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare Fruit: Peel, core, and slice the apples.
- Season: In a large bowl, toss the apple slices with 1/2 cup brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice.
- Arrange: Spread the mixture evenly into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Prepare Crumble Topping
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the oats, flour, and the remaining 1/2 cup brown sugar.
- Incorporate Butter: Cut the cold butter into the dry mixture using a pastry cutter or fork.
- Texture: Work the mixture until it reaches a coarse, crumbly consistency.
3. Assemble and Bake
- Layer: Distribute the crumble topping evenly over the apple base.
- Bake: Place in the oven for 40–45 minutes.
- Finish: Remove from the oven once the topping is golden brown and the apple filling is bubbling.
4. Serve
Optional: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream if desired.
Garnish: Drizzle caramel sauce over the crisp while it is still warm.
FAQs About Caramel Apple Crisp
Can I use any type of apples?
Yes! I usually go with Granny Smith for that tart kick, but Honeycrisp or Fuji works too. Just make sure they are firm so they don’t turn into mush.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Totally. You can prep the apples and crumble topping a day ahead, keep it covered in the fridge, and bake it the next day. Just add a few extra minutes to the bake time if it’s cold from the fridge.
Can I freeze Caramel Apple Crisp?
Yep! Bake it first, let it cool, then cover and freeze. Reheat in the oven until warm. It tastes almost like fresh-baked, trust me.
Can I make it without caramel?
Of course! The crisp is still delicious without caramel, but if you want that gooey, sweet touch, drizzle some on top before serving.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes, you can swap regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend and make sure your oats are gluten-free too. It still comes out crunchy and yummy.
Caramel Apple Crisp Recipe card
Caramel Apple Crisp Recipe card
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Peel, core, and slice the apples. Toss them with 1/2 cup brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Spread evenly in a greased 9×13 pan.
- In a bowl, mix oats, flour, and 1/2 cup brown sugar. Cut in cold butter until mixture is crumbly.
- Sprinkle crumble over the apples. Bake 40–45 minutes until topping is golden and apples are bubbly.
- Drizzle caramel sauce over warm crisp before serving. Optional: serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Notes
- Use firm apples to avoid mushy dessert.
- Can be prepped a day ahead and baked when ready.
- Serve warm for best taste and texture.
Easy, rustic, and incredibly delicious, this apple crisp is the perfect way to celebrate the flavors of the season. Simple enough for beginners but impressive enough for guests, it’s the ultimate low-stress dessert. Give it a try tonight and see why it’s a perennial favorite!
