Maple Pecan Caramel Apple Crumble Cups
These delightful Maple Pecan Caramel Apple Crumble Cups combine tender, spiced apples with a rich caramel sauce and a crunchy pecan crumble topping, perfect for individual servings.
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Medium bowl
- Ramekins or dessert cups
Ingredients
Apple Filling
- 4-5 medium Honeycrisp or Gala apples peeled, cored, and diced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter or plant-based alternative
- 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup water or apple cider
Assembly
- 1 cup good quality caramel sauce or dairy-free caramel sauce
Crumble Topping
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup rolled oats not instant
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter cut into small cubes (or plant-based alternative)
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans toasted
Instructions
Prepare the Apple Filling
- Peel, core, and dice the apples into 1/2-inch pieces, then toss them immediately with lemon juice.
- Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the diced apples, brown sugar, maple syrup, cinnamon, and nutmeg, stirring to coat.
- Add water or apple cider, bring to a gentle simmer, then cover and cook on low for 8-12 minutes until tender, stirring occasionally; remove from heat and cool slightly.
Make Crumble Topping
- In a medium bowl, combine flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, and toasted pecans, then cut in the cold butter cubes until coarse crumbs form.
Assemble & Serve
- Divide the cooled apple filling among 6-8 small ramekins or dessert cups. Spoon caramel sauce over the apples and sprinkle with crumble topping.
- Serve immediately, or bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes until golden and bubbly for a warm, crisp top.
Notes
For extra flavor, you can toast the pecans before adding them to the crumble topping. If serving later, store the assembled crumble cups in the refrigerator and bake just before serving for the best texture.