If you’re craving a dessert that wraps you in cozy, comforting flavors, look no further than this Warm Caramel Apple Crumble with Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe. Imagine tender, cinnamon-kissed apples bubbling beneath a golden, buttery crumble, all crowned with a scoop of smooth, creamy vanilla ice cream that melts beautifully over the warm topping. This dish perfectly balances the sweet richness of caramel and spices with the crisp texture of a baked crumble, making it an absolute crowd-pleaser any time of year.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple but essential ingredients come together to create layers of flavor and texture in this Warm Caramel Apple Crumble with Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe. Each element plays a role, from the juicy apples to the crunchy oat topping, ensuring every bite is pure bliss.
- 6 medium apples: Peeled and sliced, these provide the tender, juicy fruit base that’s bursting with natural sweetness and tartness.
- ½ cup brown sugar: Packed to add a deep, molasses-like sweetness that caramelizes perfectly during baking.
- ¼ cup granulated sugar: Adds a clean, straightforward sweetness that balances the spices.
- 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon: A warm spice that complements the apples beautifully and gives the crumble a classic autumn feel.
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg: Just a hint for a subtle, aromatic depth that elevates the flavor profile.
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour: The foundation of the crumble topping, creating that perfect, tender crumb texture.
- ½ cup old-fashioned rolled oats: Adds a pleasant chewiness and rustic texture to the crumble.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted: Richness and moisture bind the crumble topping together, creating a golden finish.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings out the sweetness and adds a lovely fragrant note throughout.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness flawlessly.
- ½ cup caramel sauce: Drizzled over the apples for that signature warm caramel flavor that makes this recipe unforgettable.
- Vanilla ice cream: For serving, it provides the perfect cool, creamy contrast to the warm crumble.
How to Make Warm Caramel Apple Crumble with Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Grease Your Dish
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish thoroughly so the crumble won’t stick and to help it brown beautifully.
Step 2: Toss Apples and Spices
In a large bowl, combine your peeled and sliced apples with both brown and granulated sugars, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, and salt. Drizzle in the caramel sauce and mix everything gently but thoroughly, ensuring each apple slice is coated in this flavorful blend.
Step 3: Transfer the Filling
Spread your apple mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. This layer will soften and meld with the crumble topping for that perfect balance of textures.
Step 4: Prepare the Crumble Topping
In a separate bowl, stir together the flour, oats, and any remaining brown sugar. Pour in the melted butter and mix until the topping just forms crumbly clumps—this ensures a buttery, crisp top once baked.
Step 5: Add the Crumble Topping
Evenly sprinkle the crumble topping over the apple layer, covering it completely so every bite includes that crunchy, golden crust everyone loves.
Step 6: Bake the Crumble
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the topping turns a gorgeous golden brown and the apple filling is bubbling up at the edges.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Allow the crumble to cool for about 10 minutes before scooping. This helps the filling set just a bit for easier serving. Top each portion generously with vanilla ice cream and, if you like, a drizzle of extra caramel sauce for an indulgent finish.
How to Serve Warm Caramel Apple Crumble with Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a handful of chopped toasted pecans or walnuts on top to add a delightful crunch and nuttiness that contrasts beautifully with the soft crumble. A light dusting of cinnamon or a few fresh apple slices make for an inviting presentation.
Side Dishes
This dessert stands out on its own but also pairs wonderfully with a cup of strong coffee or spiced tea. For an extra treat, serve alongside a drizzle of homemade caramel or a dollop of freshly whipped cream.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving individual portions in ramekins or mason jars for a charming look at gatherings or dinner parties. You can even layer the apple filling and crumble topping with vanilla ice cream in a parfait glass for a fun twist on this classic.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Warm Caramel Apple Crumble with Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe covered tightly in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld even more, making it just as delicious the next day.
Freezing
This crumble freezes beautifully before baking. Assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, bake from frozen adding extra baking time until bubbling and golden.
Reheating
Warm refrigerated or thawed leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes to restore that fresh-baked texture. Avoid microwaving for best results to keep the topping crisp.
FAQs
Can I use other types of apples in this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to choose apples that hold their shape well when baked, like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn, so you get that perfect balance of tart and sweet along with a nice texture.
Is it possible to make this dessert vegan?
Yes, you can easily swap the butter for a plant-based margarine and use a vegan caramel sauce. There are also many delicious non-dairy vanilla ice cream options to complete the dish.
Can I prepare parts of the recipe ahead of time?
You can prep the apple filling and topping and store them separately in the fridge for a few hours before assembly and baking. This makes it super convenient for busy days.
How thick should I slice the apples?
Slicing the apples about ¼-inch thick is ideal. This thickness ensures they cook evenly and hold their texture without turning mushy.
What’s the secret to a crunchy crumble topping?
Using old-fashioned rolled oats along with flour and melted butter gives the topping a wonderful crunch. Baking until golden brown without overcooking also ensures the perfect texture.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so warmly satisfying about a homemade Warm Caramel Apple Crumble with Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe that makes it a must-try for all dessert lovers. It’s the kind of dish you’ll want to share with family and friends, evoking smiles and happy memories with every spoonful. So go ahead, give this recipe a whirl and treat yourself to a truly comforting sweet experience that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
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Warm Caramel Apple Crumble with Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Warm Caramel Apple Cobbler with Vanilla Ice Cream is a comforting and delicious dessert perfect for cozy evenings. Featuring tender cinnamon-spiced apples baked beneath a buttery oat crumble topping and drizzled with rich caramel sauce, it combines classic apple cobbler flavors with a sweet caramel twist. Served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, this cobbler is an irresistible treat that highlights the best of autumnal fruit and indulgent dessert elements.
Ingredients
Fruit Filling
- 6 medium apples (about 2½ pounds), peeled and sliced
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup caramel sauce
Crumble Topping
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- Additional brown sugar (about 2 tablespoons, estimated)
For Serving
- Vanilla ice cream
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
- Mix Apple Filling: In a large bowl, combine the peeled and sliced apples with brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, salt, and caramel sauce. Toss everything thoroughly so the apples are evenly coated with the sugars and spices.
- Transfer Filling: Spread the apple mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, creating a uniform layer for even baking.
- Make Crumble Topping: In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, rolled oats, additional brown sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture becomes crumbly and cohesive.
- Top the Apples: Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the apple filling, covering it completely to form a crisp layer when baked.
- Bake Cobler: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apple filling is bubbling around the edges.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cobbler to cool for about 10 minutes before serving. Serve warm topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and drizzle additional caramel sauce if desired for extra sweetness.
Notes
- Use tart apples such as Granny Smith or Fuji for a balanced sweet-tart flavor.
- The crumble topping can be made ahead and refrigerated before baking.
- Adjust the amount of brown sugar in the topping based on desired sweetness.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Leftovers can be reheated in the oven or microwave and are delicious warmed up the next day.
- Serve with freshly whipped cream as an alternative to vanilla ice cream.
