Apple dessert

Caramelized Apple Dessert with Crispy Crust

Today, we present you with a delicious recipe for a caramelized apple dessert with a crispy crust, perfect for delighting the taste buds of family and friends. This simple recipe yields impressive results, combining the sweetness of apples with the warm aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg. Additionally, this dessert is ideal for cool autumn evenings, providing comfort and joy.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Servings: 6-8

Ingredients

For the apple filling:
- 900 g apples (choose sweet varieties like Golden or Fuji)
- 90 g sugar (you can adjust the amount based on the sweetness of the apples)
- Zest of 1 lemon (for an extra touch of freshness)
- 6 cubes of butter (about 80 g) to add richness

For the crust:
- 115 g brown sugar (or white sugar, depending on preference)
- 75 g flour
- 100 g butter (at room temperature for easier incorporation)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (for a warm and aromatic flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (to enhance the apple flavor)
- 6 tablespoons almond flakes (optional, for added crunch)
- A pinch of salt (to balance the sweetness)

Other ingredients:
- Butter for greasing the pan (be generous to prevent sticking)

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Preparing the apples: Start by peeling and dicing the apples into 1-2 cm cubes. They will develop a pleasant texture and caramelize evenly. Toss them with 90 g of sugar and the lemon zest in a large bowl, then set aside for 10 minutes to release their juices.

2. Preparing the pan: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Grease a 30x20 cm baking dish with butter, ensuring it is evenly coated to prevent the dessert from sticking.

3. Arranging the apples in the pan: Place the diced apples in the pan, distributing them evenly. Make sure not to leave any juice in the bowl, as it will contribute to the caramelization. Dot the top of the apples with cubes of butter.

4. Preparing the crust: In another bowl, combine the flour with the brown sugar, baking powder, nutmeg, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Add the cubed butter and, using a mixer or your hands, mix until you achieve a sandy texture. Stir in the almond flakes for added texture.

5. Assembling the dessert: Use a spoon to sprinkle the crust mixture evenly over the apples. It’s not necessary to cover the apples completely, as the crust will expand during baking and form a delicious topping.

6. Baking: Cover the pan with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and continue baking for another 30 minutes, until the crust is golden and crispy. It’s advisable to check with a toothpick to ensure the apples are soft and the crust is cooked through.

7. Cooling and serving: Once the dessert is ready, allow it to cool completely before slicing. This will help the crust set and make slicing easier. I suggest serving this dessert with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast of temperatures.

Practical Tips

- Choosing apples: Sweet and juicy apples are best for this recipe. Feel free to experiment with different varieties for new flavor combinations.
- This dessert is versatile: You can add nuts, raisins, or even chocolate to give a personal touch to the recipe.
- Vegan option: Substitute the butter with vegan margarine and use an egg replacer (such as banana puree or plant-based yogurt) to create a delicious vegan version.

Nutritional Benefits

This caramelized apple dessert not only delights your taste buds but also offers nutritional benefits. Apples are an excellent source of fiber and vitamins, especially vitamin C, contributing to immune system health and digestion. Using brown sugar instead of white sugar provides additional minerals and a lower glycemic index.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use other fruits instead of apples? Yes, you can experiment with pears or peaches, but the baking time may vary.
- How can I store the dessert? This dessert keeps well in the refrigerator, in an airtight container, for up to 3 days. Warm it slightly before serving.
- What drinks pair well with this dessert? A cup of herbal tea or a warm apple cider drink are excellent accompaniments.

This caramelized apple dessert with a crispy crust is sure to become a favorite among your loved ones! Whether you serve it at a festive meal or a simple family dinner, it will surely bring smiles to everyone’s faces. Making this recipe will remind you of warm moments spent with loved ones, enveloping everything in a festive atmosphere. Enjoy!