Caramel Apple Crumble Bread has officially stolen my heart this fall. There’s something magical about the scent of warm apples, cinnamon, and sweet caramel wafting through the kitchen, isn’t there? This recipe is my go-to for a cozy dessert that feels both comforting and special, transforming simple ingredients into something truly decadent. I remember the first time I made this caramel apple crumble loaf; the aroma alone had my family gathering in the kitchen, eager for a slice. It’s the perfect way to capture the essence of autumn, bringing together tender apples, a delightful crumb topping, and a luscious caramel drizzle. Making this homemade caramel apple crumble bread feels like wrapping yourself in a warm blanket on a crisp evening. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Caramel Apple Crumble Bread
This recipe is a winner for so many reasons. It’s the ultimate cozy dessert that’s incredibly satisfying without being overly complicated. Here’s why you’ll fall in love:
- Incredible Taste: The combination of tender, spiced apples, a buttery cinnamon crumble, and rich salted caramel is pure bliss.
- Quick Prep: You can whip up the batter and crumble in about 15 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight treat.
- Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike adore this sweet, comforting bake – it’s always a hit at gatherings.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses common pantry staples, making it an affordable way to enjoy a gourmet dessert.
- Versatile Dessert: This salted caramel apple bread recipe works beautifully as a breakfast treat, a snack, or a decadent dessert.
- Perfect for Fall: It truly embodies the flavors of the season, making it a must-try during autumn.
- Foolproof Results: Even if you’re new to baking, this salted caramel apple bread recipe is designed for success.
Ingredients for Caramel Apple Crumble Bread
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful apple crumble bread with caramel. You’ll find most of these pantry staples are probably already on hand!
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted – this forms the base of our tender bread
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar – for sweetness
- 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar, packed – adds moisture and a deeper flavor
- 2 large eggs – acts as a binder and adds richness
- 1/4 cup (60ml) milk – helps create a moist crumb
- 1 tsp vanilla extract – enhances all the other flavors
- 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour – the structure of our bread
- 1 tsp baking powder – provides lift
- 1/2 tsp baking soda – helps with browning and lift
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon – essential for that cozy fall flavor
- 1/4 tsp salt – balances the sweetness
- 1 1/2 cups finely chopped apples (mix of Honeycrisp + Granny Smith) – for that perfect apple bite
- For the Crumble Topping:
- 1/3 cup (40g) all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup (50g) brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted – to bind the crumble
- For the Salted Caramel:
- Store-bought or homemade caramel sauce – for that irresistible sweet finish
How to Make Caramel Apple Crumble Bread
Follow these simple steps to create your own delicious easy caramel apple crumble bread. The aroma alone will make your kitchen feel like the coziest spot on earth!
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Grab a standard 9×5-inch loaf pan and either grease it well or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter with the 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar and 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Step 3: Add the 2 large eggs, 1/4 cup (60ml) milk, and 1 tsp vanilla extract to the sugar mixture. Whisk everything together until it’s smooth and beautifully emulsified.
- Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk together your dry ingredients: 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour, 1 tsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp baking soda, 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon, and 1/4 tsp salt. This ensures everything is evenly distributed for a perfect rise.
- Step 5: Pour the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients and stir gently with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix! Fold in the 1 1/2 cups finely chopped apples. This is where the magic starts to happen for your easy caramel apple crumble bread.
- Step 6: To make the crumble, combine 1/3 cup (40g) all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup (50g) brown sugar, and 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon in a small bowl. Stir in 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted, until the mixture forms delicious, crumbly bits.
- Step 7: Sprinkle the prepared crumble topping evenly over the batter in the loaf pan. This adds that irresistible texture and flavor contrast to your easy caramel apple crumble bread.
- Step 8: Bake for 55–65 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top starts to brown too quickly, loosely cover the loaf pan with foil after about 30 minutes.
- Step 9: Once baked, let the bread cool in the pan on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes. This helps it set. Then, drizzle generously with your favorite store-bought or homemade caramel sauce. Slice and serve warm for the ultimate treat!
Pro Tips for the Best Caramel Apple Crumble Bread
Want to elevate your baking game? These little tricks will ensure your caramel apple crumble loaf is absolutely perfect every single time. They’re simple but make a big difference!
- Apple Choice Matters: For the best texture and flavor balance, use a mix of tart apples like Granny Smith and sweet, crisp apples like Honeycrisp. Chop them finely so they distribute evenly and bake through.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, which can lead to a tough, dense bread. Stir until just combined, and embrace a few small lumps – they’re a sign of a tender crumb!
- Crumble Chill: If your crumble topping mixture feels too soft, pop it in the fridge for 10-15 minutes before sprinkling it over the batter. This helps it hold its shape and bake up crispier.
What’s the secret to perfect Caramel Apple Crumble Bread?
The secret to the best caramel apple crumble bread lies in a few key things: using a mix of apples for complex flavor, not overmixing the batter for tenderness, and ensuring that buttery crumble topping gets perfectly crisp. A good quality caramel sauce also makes a huge difference! For more baking tips, check out this guide on making homemade bread.
Can I make Caramel Apple Crumble Bread ahead of time?
Yes, you absolutely can! You can prepare the batter and crumble topping up to 24 hours in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator. Bake as directed, but you might need to add a few extra minutes if the batter is chilled. This makes morning baking so much easier. For other make-ahead treats, consider these blueberry cream cheese crumb cake recipes.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Caramel Apple Crumble Bread?
A common pitfall is overmixing the batter, leading to a tough texture. Another is not covering the loaf if it browns too quickly during baking, which can result in a burnt top. Lastly, ensure your apples are finely chopped so they cook through properly. Learning about apple cider donut bread might also offer insights into common baking pitfalls.
Best Ways to Serve Caramel Apple Crumble Bread
This delightful caramel apple crumble bread is wonderfully versatile, making it perfect for any occasion. For a truly decadent experience, serve it warm, fresh from the oven, with a generous dollop of vanilla bean ice cream or a swirl of freshly whipped cream. The contrast between the warm, tender bread and the cool, creamy topping is divine. Another fantastic way to enjoy this is as a comforting breakfast treat alongside a hot cup of coffee or tea. It also makes an exceptional dessert caramel apple crumble bread when paired with a glass of crisp apple cider or a sweet dessert wine. No matter how you serve it, this bread is sure to be a crowd-pleaser! For more dessert ideas, explore these delicious dessert recipes.
Nutrition Facts for Caramel Apple Crumble Bread
This delicious caramel apple crumble bread offers a delightful balance of sweetness and warmth. Each slice is packed with flavor, making it a perfect treat for any time of day.
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 200mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used, especially the type of caramel sauce. For more information on baking nutrition, you can consult resources like the USDA FoodData Central.
How to Store and Reheat Caramel Apple Crumble Bread
Proper storage is key to keeping your caramel apple crumble bread tasting fresh and delicious. Once it has cooled completely on a wire rack – this is super important to prevent sogginess – you can store it. For short-term storage, wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep this amazing caramel apple crumb loaf recipe goodness for longer, freezing is your best bet! Wrap the cooled loaf or individual slices securely in plastic wrap and then a layer of aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. This makes enjoying a slice of this fall favorite super convenient anytime!
When you’re ready to enjoy your stored bread, reheating is simple. For room temperature slices, just let them thaw in the fridge overnight. To enjoy it warm, gently reheat slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or for a crispier texture, place slices on a baking sheet and warm them in an oven preheated to 300°F (150°C) for around 10 minutes. This ensures your leftover caramel apple crumble bread tastes almost as good as when it was freshly baked.
Frequently Asked Questions About Caramel Apple Crumble Bread
What makes this caramel apple crumble bread so moist?
The secret to this incredibly moist caramel apple crumble bread is a combination of ingredients. Using both granulated and brown sugar in the batter adds moisture and a tender crumb. Plus, the milk and melted butter contribute to its soft texture. Making sure not to overmix the batter is also key!
How do I make sure my caramel apple crumble bread bakes evenly?
To ensure even baking when you’re learning how to make caramel apple crumble bread, preheating your oven to the correct temperature is crucial. Also, covering the loaf loosely with foil about halfway through the baking process prevents the top from getting too dark before the inside is fully cooked. Rotating the pan halfway through can also help promote even heat distribution.
Can I use different types of apples in this recipe?
Absolutely! While a mix of tart and sweet apples like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp works wonderfully for a balanced flavor, you can experiment. Fuji, Gala, or Pink Lady apples are also great choices for this fall caramel apple crumble bread. Just make sure to chop them finely so they cook through properly.
What’s the best way to store leftover caramel apple crumble bread?
Once completely cooled, store any leftover caramel apple crumble bread tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, or in an airtight container. It keeps well at room temperature for a day or two, but for longer storage, refrigerate it for up to 4 days. This helps maintain its freshness and delicious flavor.
Variations of Caramel Apple Crumble Bread You Can Try
This versatile recipe is a fantastic base for all sorts of delicious twists! Don’t be afraid to get creative and make this caramel apple crumble bread your own. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Spiced Caramel Apple Crumble Bread: Amp up the cozy factor by adding an extra 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg or cloves to both the batter and the crumble topping. This creates an even more intensely aromatic and flavorful spiced caramel apple crumble bread.
- Gluten-Free Option: Swap the all-purpose flour for a good quality gluten-free baking blend (ensure it contains xanthan gum). You might need to adjust the baking time slightly, so keep an eye on it.
- Mini Loaves or Muffins: Pour the batter into mini loaf pans or muffin tins. Reduce the baking time accordingly – mini loaves usually take about 30-40 minutes, and muffins around 20-25 minutes. This is a great way to make individual portions!
- Add Nuts: For an extra layer of texture and flavor, fold in 1/2 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts into the batter along with the apples, or sprinkle them over the crumble topping before baking.
Caramel Apple Crumble Bread: 1 Amazing Fall Bake
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 8-10 slices 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Caramel Apple Crumble Bread is a cozy fall dessert featuring a moist apple-packed bread base, a buttery cinnamon crumble topping, and a rich salted caramel drizzle. It’s perfect for chilly evenings, gatherings, or seasonal dessert tables.
Ingredients
- For the Bread:
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup (60ml) milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 1/2 cups finely chopped apples (mix of Honeycrisp + Granny Smith)
- For the Crumble Topping:
- 1/3 cup (40g) all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup (50g) brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- For the Salted Caramel:
- Store-bought or homemade caramel sauce
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease or line a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth. Add the eggs, milk, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir just until combined. Fold in the chopped apples.
- In a small bowl, mix the flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon for the crumble. Stir in the melted butter until the mixture becomes crumbly.
- Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the batter in the pan.
- Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Cover loosely with foil after 30 minutes to prevent over-browning.
- Let the bread cool for at least 30 minutes before drizzling generously with salted caramel. Slice and serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Don’t overmix the batter; stir until just combined.
- Cover the loaf loosely with foil halfway through baking to prevent over-browning.
- Chill the crumble topping if the mixture feels too soft.
- Use a mix of tart and sweet apples for the best flavor balance.
- Store leftovers wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freeze the loaf or individual slices wrapped in plastic and foil for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
- Reheat slices in the microwave for 15–20 seconds or in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice