Why Make This Recipe
Cast Iron Skillet Apple Crisp with Caramel is a delicious dessert that combines tender, sweet apples with a crunchy oatmeal topping. The warm flavors of cinnamon and brown sugar create a cozy feeling, making this recipe perfect for fall or any time you crave a comforting treat. Serving it straight from the skillet adds a touch of rustic charm, and the gooey caramel and creamy vanilla ice cream take it over the top. Plus, it’s simple to make, requiring just a few basic ingredients that come together beautifully.
How to Make Cast Iron Skillet Apple Crisp with Caramel
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups firmly packed brown sugar
- 1 1/2 cups old-fashioned oats
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 3/4 cups (1 1/2 sticks) room temperature unsalted butter (cut into one tablespoon chunks)
- 3 large Honeycrisp apples (peeled, cored, sliced 1/4 inch thick – about 3 1/2 cups)
- 2 large Granny Smith apples (peeled, cored, sliced 1/4 inch thick – about 3 cups)
- Caramel topping (for serving)
- Vanilla ice cream (for serving)
Directions:
- Heat your oven to 350°F.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, brown sugar, oats, ground cinnamon, and salt.
- Add in the room temperature butter, saving the wrappers for later. Using your clean hands, gently press the butter into the dry ingredients until everything forms small clumps.
- Use the leftover butter wrappers to grease a 12-inch cast iron skillet.
- Layer the sliced apples on the bottom of the skillet, alternating between Honeycrisp and Granny Smith apples.
- Evenly sprinkle the oat and sugar mixture over the apples.
- Bake for 30 to 35 minutes until the topping is slightly browned and the apples are fork-tender.
- Serve with a generous drizzle of caramel topping and a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
How to Serve Cast Iron Skillet Apple Crisp with Caramel
Serve the apple crisp warm from the skillet, making sure to scoop up both the apples and topping. Drizzle caramel sauce over each serving and add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. It’s a hit at any gathering!
How to Store Cast Iron Skillet Apple Crisp with Caramel
To store leftovers, cool the apple crisp completely, then cover it with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for about 3 to 5 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or in the oven until warmed through.
Tips to Make Cast Iron Skillet Apple Crisp with Caramel
- Use a mix of sweet and tart apples for the best flavor balance.
- Make sure your butter is at room temperature for easier mixing.
- If you want a crispier topping, bake it a bit longer but keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
Variation
You can add nuts like pecans or walnuts to the topping mixture for extra crunch. You could also mix in other fruits, such as berries or pears, for a different flavor profile.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the apple crisp early in the day and bake it just before serving for the best texture.
Can I freeze the apple crisp?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked apple crisp. Wrap it tightly and freeze it for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, there’s no need to thaw; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What if I don’t have a cast iron skillet?
You can use any oven-safe baking dish. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time if necessary, as different materials cook differently.
Cast Iron Skillet Apple Crisp with Caramel
Ingredients
For the apple crisp
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
- 1.5 cups firmly packed brown sugar
- 1.5 cups old-fashioned oats
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 0.75 cups unsalted butter (room temperature, cut into chunks) About 1 1/2 sticks
For the apples
- 3 large Honeycrisp apples (peeled, cored, sliced 1/4 inch thick) About 3 1/2 cups
- 2 large Granny Smith apples (peeled, cored, sliced 1/4 inch thick) About 3 cups
For serving
- Caramel topping For serving
- Vanilla ice cream For serving
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat your oven to 350°F.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, brown sugar, oats, ground cinnamon, and salt.
- Add in the room temperature butter, saving the wrappers for later. Using your clean hands, gently press the butter into the dry ingredients until everything forms small clumps.
- Use the leftover butter wrappers to grease a 12-inch cast iron skillet.
- Layer the sliced apples on the bottom of the skillet, alternating between Honeycrisp and Granny Smith apples.
- Evenly sprinkle the oat and sugar mixture over the apples.
Baking
- Bake for 30 to 35 minutes until the topping is slightly browned and the apples are fork-tender.
Serving
- Serve the apple crisp warm from the skillet, making sure to scoop up both the apples and topping. Drizzle caramel sauce over each serving and add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side.