If there’s one dessert that captures the essence of crisp fall days and cozy nights, it’s Caramel Apple Crumble. This dessert marries tender, cinnamon-kissed apples with rich caramel sauce, all topped with a buttery oat crumble that bakes to golden perfection. It’s simple to make, yet the flavors are so luxurious it feels like something straight out of a gourmet bakery.

Whether you’re baking for a family dinner, potluck, holiday celebration, or just want something warm and sweet to enjoy with a cup of tea, this crumble delivers. It’s also a great alternative for those who want all the flavor of apple pie without the hassle of making and rolling out pie crust.

Who Will Love This Recipe

This recipe is perfect for:

Busy bakers looking for an easy yet impressive dessert.
Apple lovers who crave a twist on the classic pie.
Families who want a cozy, comforting treat for chilly evenings.
Holiday hosts needing a make-ahead crowd-pleaser.

It’s also ideal for anyone who prefers rustic desserts with real ingredients and deep, nostalgic flavor. You don’t need advanced baking skills—just a few pantry staples and a little oven time.

Ingredients for Caramel Apple Crumble

You probably have most of these ingredients in your kitchen already. Here’s what you’ll need:

Apple Base:

6 apples, peeled and sliced (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix)
1/4 cup sugar
1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)

Crumble Topping:

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup rolled oats
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup butter, melted

This ingredient list is delightfully short and simple, which makes this dessert perfect for impromptu baking sessions or last-minute guests.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch square baking dish or an equivalent oven-safe dish.

2. Toss the Apples

In a large bowl, toss the peeled, sliced apples with the 1/4 cup sugar. This enhances their natural sweetness and helps them soften during baking.

3. Arrange the Apple Base

Spread the sugared apple slices evenly in the baking dish. Drizzle the caramel sauce over the top. This will bubble into the apples as they bake, creating a gooey, caramelized filling.

4. Make the Crumble

In a medium bowl, combine the flour, oats, brown sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture forms clumps and is evenly combined.

5. Assemble

Sprinkle the crumble mixture evenly over the caramel-coated apples. Don’t press it down—leave it nice and crumbly for a perfect, golden topping.

6. Bake

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the apples are bubbling.

7. Cool and Serve

Let the crumble rest for at least 10–15 minutes after baking. This gives the caramel and juices a chance to thicken slightly.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

1 large mixing bowl
1 medium bowl
Measuring cups and spoons
Vegetable peeler
Sharp knife and cutting board
9-inch baking dish
Oven mitts
Spoon or spatula

Tips and Tricks for Success

Apple variety matters: Use a mix of tart and sweet apples for a more complex flavor.
Homemade caramel: If you want to go the extra mile, homemade caramel sauce adds a rich, buttery depth.
Add spices: A sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg on the apples adds warmth and spice.
Go nuts: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the crumble for added crunch.
Don’t overmix: When making the crumble topping, mix just until combined to keep it light and crumbly.

Recipe Variations

This recipe is versatile and easy to customize:

Salted Caramel Apple Crumble: Use salted caramel sauce and a pinch of sea salt on top.
Pear & Apple Crumble: Substitute 2 apples with 2 pears for a sweet, fragrant twist.
Cranberry Apple Crumble: Add 1/2 cup of fresh or dried cranberries to the apples for tartness.
Vegan Version: Use vegan butter and plant-based caramel sauce.
Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and certified gluten-free oats.

How to Store Leftovers

If you manage to have any leftovers, here’s how to store them:

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze individual portions for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly and thaw before reheating.
Reheating: Warm in the microwave for 30–60 seconds or in the oven at 325°F until heated through.

Perfect Pairings

Want to elevate your crumble game? Try these food and drink pairings:

Toppings:

Vanilla ice cream (classic and always perfect)
Whipped cream
Greek yogurt (for a breakfast twist)

Beverages:

Spiced chai tea
Hot apple cider
Bourbon or brandy cocktails
Mulled wine

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the best apples for apple crumble?
Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn work best. Mixing tart and sweet varieties gives a more balanced flavor.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble it up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving, adding an extra 5–10 minutes to the baking time.

Do I have to peel the apples?
Peeling is recommended for a softer texture, but you can leave the skins on if you prefer a rustic feel and added fiber.

How do I make homemade caramel sauce?
Combine 1 cup sugar with 6 tbsp butter and 1/2 cup heavy cream in a saucepan. Cook until smooth and golden. Cool slightly before using.

Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, but the texture will be a bit softer and less chewy. Rolled oats provide a more classic crumble texture.

Final Thoughts

This Caramel Apple Crumble is everything you want in a fall dessert: warm, buttery, gooey, and full of nostalgic flavor. It’s simple enough for a weeknight treat yet elegant enough for a holiday table. The buttery crumble topping paired with soft, caramel-laced apples will have everyone going back for seconds—and maybe even thirds.

Whether you serve it with a scoop of ice cream or just a fork, this dessert brings comfort and joy in every bite. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll want to make all season long—and once you try it, you’ll see why.

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Caramel Apple Crumble

Caramel Apple Crumble: The Ultimate Cozy Dessert