Caramel Apple Crisp with Easy Caramel Sauce

This caramel apple crisp is a classic baked dessert made with tender apples, gluten free oats, brown sugar, and a buttery crumb topping. Finished with a homemade caramel sauce, it’s a popular fall dessert recipe for holidays, family gatherings, and easy oven-baked sweets. Simple to prepare and naturally comforting, this apple crisp pairs perfectly with ice cream and works well as a make-ahead dessert.

Ingredients

For the Apple Crisp

• 4 Granny Smith apples, peeled and thinly sliced
• ⅓ cup gluten-free baking flour blend with binder, divided
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¾ cup certified gluten-free old-fashioned oats
• ⅓ cup brown sugar
• ½ cup chopped pecans
• Dash of salt
• 6 tablespoons butter, cut into small pieces

For the Easy Caramel Sauce

• 1 cup brown sugar
• ½ cup half-and-half
• 4 tablespoons butter
• Dash of salt
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

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Instructions

Easy Caramel Sauce

1. Add the brown sugar, half-and-half, butter, and salt to a small heavy-bottomed saucepan set over medium-low heat.
2. Cook gently, stirring often, until the mixture thickens into a smooth caramel sauce, about 10–12 minutes.
3. Remove from heat, stir in the vanilla, and let cool slightly.
4. The sauce can be made up to 5 days in advance. Reheat in the microwave for about 30 seconds before using.

Apple Crisp

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease an 8×8-inch or similar baking dish with nonstick spray.
2. Place the sliced apples in a large bowl and toss with the cinnamon and 1 tablespoon of the flour until evenly coated.
3. Transfer the apples to the prepared baking dish and drizzle ½ cup of the caramel sauce over the top.
4. In the same bowl, combine oats, brown sugar, pecans, remaining flour, salt, and butter. Use your fingertips to work the mixture together until crumbly.
5. Sprinkle the crisp topping evenly over the apples.
6. Bake for 30–40 minutes, until the apples are tender and the caramel is bubbling. If the topping browns too quickly, loosely cover with foil and continue baking.
7. Let cool for 20 minutes to 1 hour before serving. Drizzle with additional warm caramel sauce if desired.

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Tips

• Thin, even apple slices ensure consistent baking.
• Letting the crisp cool slightly helps the filling set before serving.
• Use a baking dish with some depth to prevent caramel from bubbling over.

Variations and Substitutions

• Nuts: Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds, or omit for a nut-free version.
• Apples: Use Honeycrisp or Braeburn apples for a sweeter flavor.
• Dairy-Free: Use plant-based butter and coconut cream instead of half-and-half.
• Extra Flavor: Add a pinch of nutmeg or apple pie spice to the filling.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Bake, cool, and refrigerate. Reheat in the oven before serving.

Can I freeze apple crisp?
Yes, freeze baked and cooled crisp for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat.

Why use Granny Smith apples?
They hold their shape well and balance the sweetness of the caramel.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve warm with vanilla ice cream.
• Pair with whipped cream or Greek yogurt.
• Add extra caramel sauce just before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic apple crisp with a rich caramel twist
• Gluten-free dessert made with simple ingredients
• Perfect for holidays, gatherings, or fall baking
• Easy homemade caramel sauce that works in many desserts