Ingredients:
For the Crumble Topping:
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Pinch of salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
For the Apple Filling:
6 large Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Pinch of salt
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
For the Salted Caramel Sauce:
1 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup water
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1/4 teaspoon flaky sea salt
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Preparation:
1. Prepare the Crumble Topping:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Apple Filling:
In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and lemon juice. Toss to coat.
3. Assemble and Bake:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
Spread the apple filling evenly in the prepared dish.
Top with the crumble topping, distributing it evenly.
Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are tender.
4. Make the Salted Caramel Sauce:
In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar and water over medium heat.
Cook, swirling the pan occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and turns a deep amber color.
Carefully add the heavy cream, stirring vigorously until the caramel is smooth.
Remove from heat and stir in the butter and salt.
Serving Ideas:
Classic Comfort: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Elevated Elegance: Drizzle the salted caramel sauce over the warm crumble and top with a sprig of fresh mint.
Decadent Dessert: Pair with a slice of sharp cheddar cheese for a savory-sweet contrast.
A Global Culinary Journey
This Enchanted Apple Crumble is a harmonious blend of European and American culinary traditions. The crumble topping, with its buttery, crumbly texture, is a classic British dessert staple. The sweet and tart apple filling is reminiscent of American apple pie. And the rich, indulgent salted caramel sauce is a modern twist on a timeless French dessert.
This dish is more than just a dessert; it’s a journey through time and cultures. It’s a testament to the power of food to bring people together and to inspire creativity.