I started doing this years ago, after a messy apple picking trip gone wrong. Instead of tossing half-eaten apples, I’d slice them thin, sprinkle a little cinnamon, sugar, and a pinch of salt, then bake until they turn golden and smell like fall in a jar. Now, I keep a small stash tucked in the freezer. Graze your spoon through it and it’s like biting into a baked apple with a whisper of warmth and a jammy sweetness.
This season’s about leaning into comfort, even if it’s just a simple crumble. No fancy ingredients needed. Just those frozen caramelized slices, a crumble topping, and vanilla ice cream that hits all your soft, rich notes. It’s honest, it’s straightforward, and honestly–it’s better than I expected. Still, every time I think I’ve nailed the perfect scoop, I remember how much I love turning my “mistakes” into something I can’t wait to eat.
Caramelized Apple Slice Crumble
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread the frozen apple slices evenly over the sheet, then sprinkle with cinnamon, sugar, and salt. Bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are golden and caramelized, then remove and let cool slightly.3 cups frozen apple slices, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, 1 pinch salt
- While the apples cool, prepare the crumble topping. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, and cold cubed butter. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with some pea-sized pieces.1 cup all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup unsalted butter, 1/2 cup brown sugar
- Spoon the caramelized apple slices into a baking dish, spreading them out evenly. Cover the apples with the prepared crumble mixture, pressing lightly to adhere.3 cups frozen apple slices, 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup unsalted butter, 1/2 cup brown sugar
- Bake the assembled crumble at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the mixture is bubbling around the edges.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Serve warm, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Observe the contrast between the crispy topping and soft, jammy apples.vanilla ice cream for serving
Sometimes, I wonder what it’d be like if I just baked the apples straight from the freezer without defrosting. Probably a mess, but maybe not. Either way, this has become my go-to for a quick treat that feels indulgent but is really just smart planning. Might have to put that jar on the counter now, see if it calls to me again tomorrow.
Hi there! I’m Elias Carter, the foodie and recipe creator behind Dramatically Stirring.
Food has always been my love language. Growing up in the heart of North Carolina, I spent countless hours in the kitchen with my grandmother, learning how a simple meal could tell a story, bring people together, and stir up emotions far beyond taste. That’s the spirit behind this blog — food that isn’t just cooked, but dramatically stirring.