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Indulgent Caramel Apple Crumble: A Classic British Delight

As the leaves begin to turn and the air takes on a crisp, autumnal chill, there’s nothing quite like the warmth of a freshly baked dessert to evoke feelings of comfort and nostalgia. Among these delightful treats, caramel apple crumble holds a special place in the hearts of many. This dessert combines the familiar, comforting flavours of apples and spices with the rich sweetness of caramel and a crunchy, buttery topping.

A Taste of Tradition

Crumble is a quintessential British dessert, traditionally made with seasonal fruits, and apple crumble reigns supreme. Its origins date back to the Second World War when rationing made it difficult to prepare traditional fruit pastries. Instead, clever cooks opted for a simple crumble topping made from flour, butter, and sugar, which could be whipped up with ease. This innovation not only became a staple pudding but also paved the way for many creative variations, including the delightful caramel apple crumble.

Ingredients that Matter

To create the perfect caramel apple crumble, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• For the Filling:

  • 4 large dessert apples (such as Bramley or Cox apples), peeled, cored, and sliced
  • 100g brown sugar
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 150g caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• For the Crumble Topping:
  • 200g plain flour
  • 100g unsalted butter, cold and diced
  • 100g rolled oats
  • 100g light brown sugar
  • A pinch of salt
  • Optional: 50g chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans) for added crunch

Method: Step-by-Step

1. Prepare the Apples: In a mixing bowl, combine the sliced apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and half of the caramel sauce. Toss until the apples are well coated, then transfer this mixture to an ovenproof dish.

2. Make the Crumble Topping: In a separate bowl, mix the flour, rolled oats, light brown sugar, and salt. Add in the diced cold butter, and using your fingertips, rub it into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. Stir in the chopped nuts if using.

3. Assemble the Crumble: Spoon the crumble mixture evenly over the apple filling, ensuring that all the apples are covered.

4. Bake: Preheat your oven to 190°C (170°C fan)/375°F. Bake the crumble for 30-35 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are bubbling. If the topping browns too quickly, cover with a piece of foil.

5. Add the Caramel: After taking the crumble out of the oven, drizzle the remaining caramel sauce on top while it’s still warm, allowing it to seep into the filling.

6. Serve: Allow to cool slightly before serving. For the ultimate indulgence, pair your caramel apple crumble with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of warm custard.

A Dessert for Every Occasion

Caramel apple crumble is perfect for family gatherings, comforting weeknight dinners, or a treat after a long day. Its warm, sweet flavours combined with the toasty crunch of the crumble topping make it an irresistible choice. Additionally, this dessert is highly versatile—you can substitute apples for seasonal fruits like pears or plums and experiment with different spices to suit your taste.

Conclusion

In a world bustling with elaborate desserts and intricate recipes, caramel apple crumble stands out as a testament to simplicity and tradition. Its comforting qualities evoke the essence of home and the joy of sharing a meal with loved ones. So, this autumn, why not embrace the warmth of this British classic? With its delightful combination of caramel and apples beneath a golden, crunchy topping, it’s sure to become a favourite in your recipe repertoire. Enjoy every spoonful, and let its flavours transport you to a cosy British kitchen filled with warmth and laughter.

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