Caramel Apple Crumble Skillet
There’s something undeniably comforting about warm, cinnamon-spiced apples topped with a buttery, golden crumble and drizzled with luscious caramel sauce. The Caramel Apple Crumble Skillet is a dessert that perfectly captures all those cozy fall vibes in one skillet. It’s easy to prepare, requires just one pan, and fills your kitchen with the most inviting aromas. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering or simply craving a sweet treat, this skillet dessert is sure to become a favorite.
Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing
The magic of the Caramel Apple Crumble Skillet lies in its beautiful balance of textures and flavors. The tender, juicy apples meld with warm spices like cinnamon and a hint of lemon juice to brighten the fruit’s natural sweetness. The crumble topping, made with oats, brown sugar, and nuts, adds a satisfyingly crunchy contrast. And then there’s the caramel sauce, drizzled on top, that brings everything together with its rich, buttery sweetness. It’s a dessert that appeals to all ages, perfect for potlucks, holiday dinners, or an indulgent weekend treat.
This skillet version is especially appealing because the crumble bakes up crispy on the edges while the apples stay soft and juicy underneath. Plus, serving it straight from the pan is not only rustic and charming but keeps all the flavors hot and fresh. Pair with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream, and you’re in for a truly decadent experience.
What You’ll Gather
- 4 medium apples, peeled, cored, and sliced – Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work beautifully for a balance of tart and sweet
- 1/2 cup brown sugar – adds that deep molasses sweetness
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar – to enhance the natural fruit sugars
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – the warm spice that’s essential here
- 1/4 teaspoon salt – to balance and amplify the flavors
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice – brightens and prevents apple browning
- 1 cup all-purpose flour – forms the base of the crumble
- 1/2 cup rolled oats – adds texture and a hearty note to the topping
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted – for richness and to bind the crumble
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder – helps the crumble puff slightly for a light texture
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans) – for crunch and flavor depth
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce – the crowning glory drizzled over the top
Appliances & Accessories
- 10-inch oven-safe skillet – cast iron works best for even heat and rustic presentation
- Mixing bowls – one for the apples and one for the crumble topping
- Measuring cups and spoons – for precise ingredient amounts
- Wooden spoon or spatula – to mix the crumble topping
- Knife and cutting board – for peeling and slicing the apples
- Oven mitts – essential for safely handling the hot skillet
Caramel Apple Crumble Skillet, Made Easy
Step 1: Prepare the Apples
In a medium bowl, toss the peeled, cored, and sliced apples with the brown sugar, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, salt, and lemon juice. Make sure every slice is coated evenly. The lemon juice keeps the apples fresh and adds a subtle tang that complements the caramel beautifully.
Step 2: Mix the Crumble Topping
In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, rolled oats, baking powder, and chopped nuts. Pour in the melted butter and stir until the mixture is crumbly but holds together when pressed. The oats and nuts give the topping a wonderful texture that contrasts the soft apples perfectly.
Step 3: Assemble the Skillet
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the apple mixture evenly in the bottom of your skillet. Then sprinkle the crumble topping generously over the apples, making sure to cover all the fruit. This layering creates the classic apple crumble effect where every bite has both tender fruit and crunchy topping.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Place the skillet in the oven and bake for 40–45 minutes. The top should be golden brown and crisp, and the apples underneath bubbling hot. The aroma will fill your kitchen with irresistible scents of cinnamon and caramelized fruit.
Step 5: Drizzle with Caramel Sauce
Remove the skillet from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes. Then drizzle the caramel sauce evenly over the top while still warm. This final touch adds a luscious, sticky sweetness that takes the dessert to the next level.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the Caramel Apple Crumble Skillet warm, ideally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. You can even invite guests to help themselves straight from the skillet for a cozy, communal dessert experience.
Swap Guide
- Apples: If you prefer a sweeter apple, try Fuji or Gala varieties instead of tart Granny Smith.
- Butter: You can substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free version; it adds a subtle tropical flavor.
- Nuts: Swap walnuts or pecans for sliced almonds or omit entirely if allergies are a concern.
- Caramel Sauce: Use a store-bought caramel sauce or make your own with evaporated milk, brown sugar, and butter for a homemade touch.
Easy-to-Miss Gotchas
- Don’t skip the lemon juice on the apples – it prevents browning and enhances flavor.
- Make sure your skillet is oven-safe to avoid accidents in the oven.
- Use medium-sized apples rather than large to ensure the crumble cooks evenly.
- Keep an eye on the crumble topping in the last 5 minutes of baking to prevent burning.
- Let the skillet cool briefly before drizzling caramel – too hot and the sauce may become too runny.
Save for Later: Storage Tips
Leftover Caramel Apple Crumble Skillet can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave or the whole skillet in a 350°F oven until heated through. Avoid storing the caramel sauce separately; it’s best drizzled fresh before serving.
Common Qs About Caramel Apple Crumble Skillet
Can I use frozen apples for this recipe?
While fresh apples are best for texture and flavor, frozen apples can be used in a pinch. Thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture, which can make the crumble soggy.
Is it okay to prepare the crumble topping ahead of time?
Yes! You can mix the crumble topping and refrigerate it for up to a day before baking. Just bring it back to room temperature before assembling the skillet.
What’s the best way to serve this dessert?
Serve warm with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle more of caramel sauce. It also pairs beautifully with a cup of hot tea or coffee.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, and ensure your oats are certified gluten-free. This swap keeps the texture and flavor intact.
Don’t Miss These
- Try the irresistible Caramel Apple Stuffed Cupcakes for an individual-sized treat.
- For handheld convenience, the Caramel Apple Hand Pies are perfect for on-the-go snacking.
- Looking for a cozy breakfast or dessert? The Apple Bread Pudding With Caramel Sauce is a must-try.
Final Thoughts
The Caramel Apple Crumble Skillet is a timeless dessert that combines sweet, tart, and buttery flavors with a delightful mix of soft and crunchy textures. Its one-pan simplicity makes it an accessible recipe for bakers of all skill levels, yet it looks and tastes like something special. Whether you’re welcoming fall, celebrating a special occasion, or just craving a warm, comforting dessert, this skillet crumble is a winner every time. Don’t forget to keep your caramel sauce ready for that final drizzle — it truly elevates the dish and leaves everyone asking for seconds.
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Caramel Apple Crumble Skillet
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium bowl, toss the peeled, cored, and sliced apples with the brown sugar, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, salt, and lemon juice. Make sure every slice is coated evenly.
- In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, rolled oats, baking powder, and chopped nuts. Pour in the melted butter and stir until the mixture is crumbly but holds together when pressed.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the apple mixture evenly in the bottom of your skillet. Then sprinkle the crumble topping generously over the apples.
- Place the skillet in the oven and bake for 40–45 minutes until the top is golden brown and crisp, and the apples underneath are bubbling hot.
- Remove the skillet from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes. Then drizzle the caramel sauce evenly over the top while still warm.
- Serve warm, ideally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Notes
- Use medium-sized apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best balance of tart and sweet.
- Substitute butter with coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
- Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat before serving.
- Keep an eye on the crumble in the last 5 minutes to avoid burning.
- Drizzle caramel sauce just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
