Introduction

When the holiday season arrives, nothing feels more comforting than the warm, nostalgic aroma of baked apples, cinnamon, and buttery crumble drifting through the kitchen. This Caramel Apple Crumble brings together classic Christmas flavors with a rich caramel twist that transforms a traditional dessert into something truly unforgettable. Whether served after a festive family dinner, paired with hot cider, or enjoyed beside a glowing Christmas tree, this dessert captures the timeless sweetness of the holiday season. Using the focus keyword Caramel Apple Crumble naturally, this recipe delivers a cozy, heartwarming treat everyone will ask for year after year.

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What Makes This Caramel Apple Crumble Special

The holidays call for desserts that feel indulgent yet familiar. This crumble strikes the perfect balance:

• Soft, cinnamon-spiced apples
• A thick swirl of buttery caramel
• A golden, crisp oat topping
• Warm, rustic flavors perfect for winter nights

It’s the kind of dessert that makes guests ask for seconds before they’ve even finished their first serving.

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Ingredients

For the Apple Filling

• 6 medium apples (a mix of Honeycrisp and Granny Smith works best), peeled and sliced
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon allspice
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/3 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)

For the Crumble Topping

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed

For Serving (Optional but Recommended)

• Extra caramel drizzle
• Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream
• Crushed pecans

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Apple Filling

1. Peel, core, and slice the apples evenly.
2. In a large bowl, toss apples with lemon juice.
3. Add granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, cornstarch, and vanilla.
4. Mix until apples are coated.
5. Pour caramel sauce over the apples and fold gently.
6. Transfer mixture to a baking dish.

Step 2: Make the Crumble Topping

1. In a separate bowl, combine flour, oats, sugars, cinnamon, and salt.
2. Add cold butter and use a pastry cutter or fingertips to blend until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Sprinkle crumble topping evenly over the apples.

Step 3: Bake

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Bake uncovered for 40–50 minutes, until the top is golden and apples are bubbling.
• Let cool at least 10 minutes before serving so the caramel thickens.

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Tips for the Best Caramel Apple Crumble

1. Use Two Types of Apples

A combination of sweet and tart apples creates balance and prevents the filling from becoming too soft.

2. Don’t Skip the Cornstarch

It thickens the caramel and juices so the crumble stays rich and not watery.

3. Use Cold Butter Only

This ensures the crumble topping turns crisp instead of soft.

4. Add Nuts for Extra Crunch

Pecans or walnuts bring beautiful texture and a toasty Christmas warmth.

5. Make It Ahead

Assemble the dish earlier in the day, refrigerate, and bake right before serving.

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Variations

Salted Caramel Apple Crumble

Add 1/2 teaspoon flaky sea salt to the caramel for a sophisticated twist.

Caramel Apple Cranberry Crumble

Add 1/2 cup fresh cranberries for a tart, festive flavor balance.

Maple Apple Crumble

Replace caramel with 1/3 cup pure maple syrup for a rustic winter taste.

Apple Pear Crumble

Swap half the apples for pears for a softer, fruitier dessert.

Gingerbread Crumble Topping

Add 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger and 1 tablespoon molasses to the topping for instant holiday flavor.

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Serving Ideas

• Serve warm with vanilla ice cream melting into the caramel.
• Add a drizzle of warm caramel right before serving.
• Pair with hot chocolate, chai latte, or holiday punch.
• Serve in individual ramekins for a festive dessert table.

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Storage Instructions

Refrigerator

• Store covered for up to 4 days.
• Reheat in the oven at 325°F for 15 minutes to re-crisp the topping.

Freezer

• Freeze baked crumble up to 2 months.
• Reheat from frozen at 350°F for 25–30 minutes.

Make-Ahead Option

• Assemble but do not bake.
• Refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

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Nutrition (Estimated per Serving)

• Calories: 390
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 62g
• Sugar: 36g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 3g

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Conclusion

This Caramel Apple Crumble is more than just a dessert; it’s a warm, festive embrace in every bite. With tender cinnamon apples, buttery caramel, and a crisp golden topping, it embodies everything comforting about the holiday season. Whether served as the grand finale of Christmas dinner or enjoyed during a cozy winter evening at home, this recipe promises rich flavor and timeless holiday charm. If you’re searching for a dessert that feels both nostalgic and special, this Caramel Apple Crumble will quickly become a cherished Christmas tradition.