Butterscotch Cornflake Apple Crisp: The Ultimate Fall Dessert
A crunchy autumn treat featuring orchard fruit topped with buttery, sweet richness.
Butterscotch Cornflake Apple Crisp: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Fall Dessert
If you’re searching for a new fall dessert that combines juicy apples, a buttery and crunchy topping, and the indulgent sweetness of butterscotch, look no further than the Butterscotch Cornflake Apple Crisp. This recipe went viral thanks to its playful use of cornflakes as a crisp topping and the addition of a warm butterscotch sauce that soaks into every bite. Whether served at a family gathering or as a treat for yourself, this is the ultimate upgrade to the traditional apple crisp.
Why You’ll Love This Apple Crisp
- Unique flavor combination: The butterscotch and apple pairing brings a caramelized richness that’s unexpected yet absolutely delicious.
- Crunchy cornflake topping: Cornflakes stay crunchy and golden, providing a delightful texture contrast to tender baked apples.
- Easy preparation: With simple steps and standard ingredients, this is an approachable recipe suitable for bakers of all skill levels.
- Perfect for gatherings: This crisp is designed to impress, making it an excellent dessert for autumn holidays or weekend dinners.
What Makes This Apple Crisp Different?
The main twist in this apple crisp is in the topping—cornflakes are folded into the classic buttery, sugary crumble, then sprinkled over apples. Once baked, the topping forms crunchy, golden clusters that retain their crispness. Finished off with a warm butterscotch sauce poured on top, each bite is both gooey and crunchy, sweet and tart.
Key Components at a Glance
| Component | Traditional Crisp | Butterscotch Cornflake Apple Crisp |
|---|---|---|
| Fruit Filling | Apples, sugar, cinnamon | Apples, sugar, lemon, cinnamon |
| Topping | Flour, sugar, oats | Flour, sugar, butter, cornflakes |
| Sauce | Optional caramel | Homemade butterscotch sauce |
Ingredients
For the Apple Crisp
- 3 large crisp red apples (about 3 pounds), peeled and cut into 3/4-inch pieces
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup salted butter, cubed and at room temperature
- 1 1/2 cups cornflakes
For the Butterscotch Sauce
- 4 tablespoons salted butter
- 1/2 cup packed dark brown sugar
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Serving
- Butter pecan ice cream (or vanilla ice cream), for serving
Step-by-Step Directions
1. Prepare the Apple Filling
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil for easy clean-up.
- In a large bowl, toss apple pieces with granulated sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, and half the salt. Stir well to combine so apples are evenly coated.
- Transfer the apple mixture and its juices to a 2-quart baking dish, spreading it into an even layer.
2. Make the Cornflake Topping
- In the same bowl, whisk together flour, brown sugar, and the remaining salt.
- Add cubed butter. Using your fingers or a pastry cutter, mash and blend the butter into the dry ingredients until it forms coarse, crumbly bits.
- Add cornflakes and gently fold them in with your hands, trying not to crush them completely. Squeeze the topping into irregular clumps for extra crunch.
- Sprinkle the topping generously over the apples in the baking dish.
3. Bake the Crisp
- Place the filled baking dish onto the prepared baking sheet (this catches any bubbly overflow).
- Bake for 55–60 minutes until the topping is deep golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
- If the topping is browning too quickly, loosely cover with foil for the last 15 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for about 10 minutes. This rest period helps the topping crisp up more and the filling to set slightly.
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4. Prepare the Butterscotch Sauce
- While the crisp is baking, combine butter, dark brown sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla extract in a small saucepan.
- Bring to a low boil over medium heat, stirring constantly. Simmer gently for about 5 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
- Remove from heat and let cool for about 10 minutes. The sauce will continue to thicken as it cools.
5. Serve
- Spoon warm crisp into bowls, drizzle generously with butterscotch sauce, and add a scoop of butter pecan or vanilla ice cream.
- Pass extra butterscotch sauce at the table for those who want even more!
Tips and Variations
- Use apples with a balance of sweetness and tartness, such as Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Braeburn, for best results.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg to the apple mixture for added warmth.
- Try substituting the cornflakes with another crunchy cereal, such as bran flakes, if desired.
- The butterscotch sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Gently reheat before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve this dessert freshly baked and still warm for maximum enjoyment.
- Top with butter pecan or vanilla ice cream. If desired, sprinkle a bit of sea salt over the sauce for contrast.
- For a smaller group, halve the recipe and bake in an 8×8-inch dish.
- Pair with coffee or a mug of hot apple cider for an extra cozy touch.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
- Store any leftovers tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Reheat portions in the microwave or cover and warm in a 300°F oven until heated through. Add fresh butterscotch sauce if available.
- The crisp is also delicious cold, especially with a dollop of whipped cream.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best apple for this recipe?
Firmer apple varieties like Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Braeburn hold up well during baking, providing both flavor and structure. A mix of sweet and tart apples adds depth to the crisp.
Can I make the butterscotch sauce in advance?
Yes. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Gently reheat before drizzling over the crisp.
Is it possible to substitute another cereal for cornflakes?
Absolutely. While cornflakes offer a classic crunch and nostalgic flavor, bran flakes or even crushed graham crackers can be used for a different twist.
How do I prevent the topping from burning?
If you notice the topping getting too dark before the apples have fully cooked, loosely cover the dish with foil for the remainder of the baking time. This shields the topping while the fruit softens.
What’s the difference between an apple crisp and an apple crumble?
Traditionally, an apple crisp contains oats or cereal in the topping, providing a more pronounced crunch, while an apple crumble has a streusel-like topping made solely from flour, sugar, and butter. However, the terms are often used interchangeably in American baking.
Apple Crisp vs. Other Apple Desserts
| Dessert | Main Features |
|---|---|
| Apple Crisp | Crispy topping with oats or cereal; soft fruit base; often served warm with ice cream |
| Apple Crumble | Softer, streusel-like topping; no oats; sweet fruit filling |
| Apple Cobbler | Biscuit or cake-like topping; fruit filling baked underneath |
| Baked Apples | Whole apples stuffed with spiced oat mixture; single-serving portions |
Pro Tips for Extra Crunch and Flavor
- Squeeze the cornflake topping gently together into small clumps before baking for an extra bakery-style crunch.
- Let the crisp cool for 10–15 minutes after baking; this not only allows it to set but also intensifies the flavors.
- For a hint of salt and depth, garnish with flaky sea salt before serving.
- Pair with different ice cream flavors: butter pecan, salted caramel, or cinnamon ice cream all complement the warm flavors of this crisp.
Perfect for Make-Ahead and Entertaining
This Butterscotch Cornflake Apple Crisp is ideal for fall entertaining. The topping and butterscotch sauce can both be prepared ahead of time, and the dessert itself is best served warm shortly after baking. Alternatively, assemble the crisp in advance, refrigerate, and bake fresh shortly before guests arrive—your kitchen will smell heavenly, and your guests will enjoy dessert at its very best.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use gluten-free flour in this recipe?
A: Yes, substitute your favorite cup-for-cup gluten-free flour blend for the all-purpose flour to make the dessert gluten-free. Double-check your cornflakes to ensure they’re gluten-free as well.
Q: How can I make the crisp dairy-free?
A: Use plant-based butter and a non-dairy cream (such as coconut cream or oat cream) in place of the dairy ingredients. The sauce and topping will still turn out rich and flavorful.
Q: Can the crisp be frozen?
A: This apple crisp is best baked and enjoyed fresh. However, you can freeze the assembled, unbaked crisp (without the butterscotch sauce) for up to 3 months. Bake straight from frozen, adding about 10 extra minutes to the bake time. The butterscotch sauce is best made fresh when serving.
Q: Is the butterscotch sauce necessary?
A: The butterscotch sauce takes this crisp to the next level, but for a lighter dessert, you can skip it or substitute with caramel sauce if preferred.
Summary: Why You Should Bake This Dessert This Fall
- Crowd-pleaser: Both kids and adults love the rich butterscotch flavor and crunch topping.
- Seasonal star: Showcases apples at their peak and puts those leftover cornflakes to delicious use.
- Comfort food: Every spoonful delivers warmth, nostalgia, and a cozy autumnal vibe.
Ready to Try It?
Whether you’re an apple dessert enthusiast or just seeking to impress at your next gathering, this Butterscotch Cornflake Apple Crisp is destined to become a seasonal favorite. Happy baking—and don’t forget the ice cream!
References
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a45231490/butterscotch-cornflake-apple-crisp-recipe/
- https://marrykitchen.com/butterscotch-cornflake-apple-crisp-recipe/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a61938695/apple-crumble-recipe/
- https://rogersfoods.com/recipe-category/apple-crisp/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/meals-menus/g37158941/apple-dessert-recipes/
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