Name: Sourdough Apple Crisp with Caramel Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1000 grams chopped or sliced apples (about 8-10 apples); 55 grams brown sugar (about 1/4 cup); 20 grams cornstarch (about 2.5 Tablespoons); 3 grams ground cinnamon (about 1 teaspoon); 20 grams lemon juice (about 2 Tablespoons, juice from one small-medium lemon); 4 grams vanilla extract (about 1 teaspoon); 2 grams salt (about 1/4 teaspoon); 100 grams sourdough discard (scant 1/2 cup); 113 grams unsalted butter, melted (8 Tablespoons); 100 grams brown sugar (about 1/2 cup); 6 grams ground cinnamon (about 2 teaspoons); 70 grams all-purpose flour (1/2 cup); 150 grams rolled oats (about 1 1/2 cups); 30 grams unsalted butter (about 2 Tablespoons); 75 grams brown sugar (about 1/4 cup plus 2 Tablespoons); 60 grams heavy cream (about 1/4 cup); 30 grams unsalted butter (about 2 Tablespoons) – included in topping, but additional butter needed for caramel sauce; 75 grams brown sugar (about 1/4 cup plus 2 Tablespoons) – portion allocated for caramel sauce; 1 gram salt (pinch); 2 grams vanilla extract (about 1/2 teaspoon)

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 7 reviews

I am beyond excited to share this delightful twist on a classic dessert with you: the Sourdough Apple Crisp with Caramel Sauce Recipe. This cozy, comforting dish takes tender, cinnamon-spiced apples and pairs them with a uniquely crunchy sourdough oat topping that adds incredible texture and flavor. What truly elevates this crisp is the luscious homemade caramel sauce that drapes over each serving like a warm hug. It’s the perfect fall or winter dessert to savor with loved ones, and once you try it, it’ll quickly become a beloved staple in your dessert rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl holds a crumbly mixture of light brown and beige oats and sugar clumps with a rough texture; a silver spoon rests inside, partially covered by the mixture. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface, and the mix looks dry and grainy with small oat flakes visible throughout. The scene is lit softly from above, showing the texture and slight unevenness of the mixture's clusters photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of the Sourdough Apple Crisp with Caramel Sauce Recipe lies in its simplicity and how each ingredient works in harmony. From the tart apples to the nutty sourdough topping and rich caramel sauce, every component adds something special to the final dish.

Chopped or sliced apples (1000 grams): Choose firm, crisp apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best balance of tartness and sweetness.
Brown sugar (several amounts): Provides caramel-like sweetness in both the apple filling and the topping, intensifying the flavor.
Cornstarch (20 grams): Essential for thickening the apple juices into a luscious filling.
Ground cinnamon (multiple measures): Adds warmth and depth, perfectly complementing the apples and the sourdough crumble.
Lemon juice (20 grams): Brightens the apple filling and helps prevent browning.
Vanilla extract (about 1 teaspoon and more for caramel): Brings a silky, aromatic note that ties the flavors together beautifully.
Salt (small amounts): Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
Sourdough discard (100 grams): The star ingredient in the topping, providing tanginess and a satisfying crumbly texture.
Unsalted butter (113 grams for topping and 30 grams for caramel): Enriches both the crisp topping and the caramel sauce with silky smoothness.
All-purpose flour (70 grams): Binds the topping ingredients and helps create that perfect crunchy crust.
Rolled oats (150 grams): Gives the topping hearty texture with nutty undertones.
Heavy cream (60 grams): Vital for that rich, luxurious caramel sauce.

How to Make Sourdough Apple Crisp with Caramel Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350ºF. Choose a 10 or 12-inch skillet or a 9 by 13 inch baking pan to bake your crisp in a way that allows even cooking and bubbling apples. Having the right vessel helps guarantee the most delicious results.

Step 2: Prepare the Apples

Peel and chop or slice around 8 to 10 apples into bite-size pieces. Toss the apples gently in a skillet with brown sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and salt. This combination infuses the apples with warmth and sweetness, while the cornstarch will thicken the luscious juices during baking.

Step 3: Pre-Cook the Apples

Place the skillet over medium heat and cook the apples, stirring every few minutes for about 10 minutes. This gentle warming softens the apples just enough and helps them absorb the flavors beautifully before baking.

Step 4: Mix and Add the Sourdough Topping

While the apples soften, whisk together the sourdough discard and melted butter in a bowl until combined. Then stir in brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Pulse the oats briefly in a blender if you want a finer texture, then mix in flour and oats. The resulting topping will be a bit sticky—this is exactly how it should be! Dollop chunks of this topping evenly over the warm apples.

Step 5: Bake

Transfer the skillet to your oven and bake for approximately 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the apples are bubbling joyfully, and the oat topping is golden and crisp. This step melds the flavors and textures into a wonderfully harmonious dish.

Step 6: Make the Caramel Sauce

While the apple crisp is in the oven, prepare the caramel sauce. Combine butter, brown sugar, heavy cream, and salt in a heavy-bottomed pot, heating over medium-low until melted and combined. Once combined, increase the heat to medium and let the caramel bubble without stirring for 7 to 10 minutes until it reaches about 225ºF. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. The sauce will thicken as it cools—feel free to double the batch if you crave extra caramel for later use.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Pour the warm caramel sauce generously over the baked sourdough apple crisp or serve it on the side for each person to drizzle to their heart’s content. Enjoy this cozy, crunchy, meltingly sweet treat warm for the ultimate comforting dessert experience.

How to Serve Sourdough Apple Crisp with Caramel Sauce Recipe

The image shows a slice of apple crisp dessert on a white plate with a textured rim. The dessert has two layers: the bottom layer is made of chunky, soft apple pieces mixed with a cinnamon syrup that is shiny and brown, and the top layer is a golden brown oat crumble that looks crunchy and thick. Next to the plate, there is a silver spoon holding some of the apple crisp. In the background, a black cast iron skillet holds the rest of the apple crisp, with the oat crumble and cinnamon syrup visible on top. To the right, there is a white mug filled with brown sauce, all placed on a white marbled textured surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Top your servings with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to add creamy richness. Freshly chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts add delightful crunch, and a light dusting of cinnamon or powdered sugar further elevates the presentation and flavor.

Side Dishes

This apple crisp pairs wonderfully with hot beverages such as spiced chai tea, freshly brewed coffee, or a mug of warm cider. For an extra indulgent touch, serve alongside a slice of sharp cheddar cheese, whose savory notes balance the sweetness beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider serving individual portions in small ramekins for a charming, personalized touch. Alternatively, present the apple crisp in a rustic cast iron skillet right at the table to bring that homey, inviting atmosphere to your gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover sourdough apple crisp keeps well when covered and refrigerated for up to 4 days. Before storing, allow it to cool to room temperature to maintain the texture of the topping without sogginess.

Freezing

You can freeze the baked crisp in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the oven to bring back that fresh-baked crispness. Freezing the caramel sauce separately in a jar is also a great idea for enjoying future batches.

Reheating

For the best texture, reheat your leftover crisp in a 350ºF oven for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through and the topping regains its crunch. Microwave reheating is faster but may sacrifice crispness.

FAQs

Can I use regular bread instead of sourdough discard for the topping?

While regular bread crumbs can be used, the sourdough discard adds a unique tangy flavor and texture that really makes this crisp stand out. Using sourdough discard is highly recommended for an authentic taste.

What types of apples work best for this recipe?

Firm, tart apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn hold their shape well during cooking and provide the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness in the filling.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure your oats are certified gluten-free. This will keep the deliciousness intact without gluten.

How do I know when the caramel sauce is ready?

The caramel sauce is ready when it reaches about 225ºF and bubbles steadily without needing stirring. At this point, it has thickened and is golden brown, perfect for drizzling over your crisp.

Can I prepare parts of this recipe in advance?

You can prepare the apple filling ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. The sourdough topping is best mixed fresh before baking for optimal texture, while the caramel sauce can be made ahead and refrigerated.

Final Thoughts

Trust me when I say this Sourdough Apple Crisp with Caramel Sauce Recipe is a true showstopper that’s surprisingly easy to make. The blend of tart apples, tangy sourdough crumb, and silky caramel sauce creates a dessert that’s comforting, unique, and downright addictive. I encourage you to try making it for your next gathering or cozy night in—you just might discover your new favorite family recipe.