Salted Caramel Apple Sundae with Cinnamon-Baked Apples Recipe

If you are someone who adores the sweet warmth of autumn on your palate, then you are going to fall head over heels for this Salted Caramel Apple Sundae with Cinnamon-Baked Apples Recipe. Imagine tender, cinnamon-spiced honeycrisp apples baked to perfection and nestled atop velvety French vanilla ice cream, all luxuriously drizzled with a homemade salted caramel sauce that perfectly balances sweet and salty. This dessert captures the essence of cozy, nostalgic flavors in a way that feels both indulgent and satisfying. Whether you serve it as a show-stopping finale to a fall dinner or a comforting treat any day, this sundae is guaranteed to brighten your mood and win everyone’s heart.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Putting together this Salted Caramel Apple Sundae with Cinnamon-Baked Apples Recipe requires just a handful of simple ingredients, each one crucial for building layers of flavor and texture. From the natural sweetness of honeycrisp apples to the rich creaminess of vanilla ice cream and the buttery, spiced notes of cinnamon and caramel, every component plays its part perfectly.

• 2 cups sugar for caramel: This is the base for the luscious homemade salted caramel sauce, essential for that deep, rich sweetness.
• 2 cups heavy cream: Heated and whisked into the caramel sugar for a silky smooth finish in the sauce.
• 2 teaspoons sea salt: Adds a subtle pop that elevates the caramel’s flavor without overpowering it.
• 1 large honeycrisp apple, cored and sliced ½-inch thick: Known for its crisp texture and sweet-tart flavor, perfect for baking and melding with cinnamon.
• 3 tablespoons salted butter: Brings a rich, creamy base for baking the apples and helps brown the brown sugar perfectly.
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar: Adds molasses depth and a caramel-like quality to the baked apples.
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon: The aromatic spice that lends warmth and complements the apples beautifully.
• 4 large scoops French vanilla ice cream: Creamy and smooth, the ideal counterpoint to warm apples and sticky caramel.

How to Make Salted Caramel Apple Sundae with Cinnamon-Baked Apples Recipe

Step 1: Craft the Homemade Salted Caramel Sauce

The magic starts here. Place the sugar in a small saucepan and add just enough water to resemble wet sand—this helps the sugar cook evenly. Bring this to a boil over high heat, but do not stir it, as stirring can cause crystals to form. To keep the sides clean and smooth, gently brush down the edges with a wet pastry brush, removing any sugar clumps. Meanwhile, heat your heavy cream in another pan until it is steaming hot but not boiling. Once the sugar mixture reaches a beautiful amber color, remove from heat and cautiously whisk in the hot cream—this part is essential for that perfect, glossy caramel texture. Don’t forget to stir in the sea salt last to give it that signature salty-sweet balance.

Step 2: Prepare the Cinnamon-Baked Apples

Preheat your oven to 350° F and line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Lay out those crisp honeycrisp apple slices in a single layer. In a small saucepan, melt the salted butter and combine it with brown sugar and cinnamon over medium-low heat. Stir gently until the sugar dissolves completely, creating a luscious glaze. Using a pastry brush, coat both sides of the apple slices generously with this cinnamon-sugar mixture, ensuring every bite will have that flavorful crust. Slide the apples into the oven and bake until tender, about 30 minutes. The apples should be soft but still keep their shape, infused with warm cinnamon notes and a hint of caramelization.

Step 3: Assemble Your Sundae

Now it’s time to bring everything together. Scoop the French vanilla ice cream into four charming sundae cups or bowls to serve as the creamy canvas. Top each with a generous portion of your warm cinnamon-baked apples, allowing their juices to mingle with the ice cream. Finally, drizzle the homemade salted caramel sauce over the top, letting it cascade down the sides for an irresistible finish. This final assembly brings together all the contrasting temperatures, textures, and flavors that make this Salted Caramel Apple Sundae with Cinnamon-Baked Apples Recipe truly unforgettable.

How to Serve Salted Caramel Apple Sundae with Cinnamon-Baked Apples Recipe

Garnishes

A little garnish can turn this sundae from amazing to extraordinary. Consider sprinkling chopped toasted pecans or walnuts on top for a delightful crunch that complements the soft apples and creamy ice cream. A light dusting of freshly ground nutmeg or extra cinnamon can also enhance the warming spices. If you want a touch of elegance, a sprig of fresh mint adds a pop of color and freshness.

Side Dishes

This dessert pairs beautifully with warm beverages like spiced chai tea or hot apple cider to keep the fall theme flowing. If you’re serving it after dinner, consider a simple cheese plate with sharp cheddar or creamy brie, which contrasts nicely with the sundae’s sweet richness. Even a crunchy cookie or biscotti on the side would make for a lovely textural balance.

Creative Ways to Present

Think beyond bowls! Serve this sundae in hollowed-out apple halves for a rustic presentation that doubles as an edible container. For parties, individual mason jars with layers of baked apple, ice cream, and caramel create an eye-catching treat that’s easy to eat while mingling. Alternatively, drizzle caramel in intricate patterns on dessert plates before plating the ice cream and apples to impress your guests visually as well as with flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra cinnamon-baked apples, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the caramel sauce separate in a small jar or container to maintain its perfect texture, and reheat gently before serving.

Freezing

While the apples can be frozen by themselves in a sealed container, the sundae as a whole is best enjoyed fresh. If freezing baked apples, thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating. The caramel sauce can also be frozen but may need gentle warming and stirring to return to its silky form.

Reheating

Warm your leftover cinnamon-baked apples in a microwave-safe dish for about 30-45 seconds or gently heat them on the stove over low heat. Reheat the caramel sauce carefully to avoid burning—using a double boiler or brief microwaving in short intervals works well. Ice cream, of course, should be served fresh and cold for the best experience.

FAQs

Can I use other types of apples for this recipe?

Absolutely! While honeycrisp apples are fantastic for their natural sweetness and texture, Granny Smith or Fuji apples also work well. Just adjust baking time slightly depending on their firmness and sweetness.

Is it necessary to make homemade caramel sauce?

While store-bought caramel can be a shortcut, homemade salted caramel sauce offers unparalleled depth of flavor and a fresh, creamy texture that really elevates the sundae experience.

How can I make this recipe vegan-friendly?

Try using coconut cream instead of heavy cream for the caramel and choose a plant-based vanilla ice cream. Swap butter with coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative for baking the apples.

What’s the best way to prevent the caramel from crystallizing?

Brushing down the saucepan sides with a wet brush during cooking helps prevent sugar crystals from forming. Also, avoid stirring the sugar while boiling to keep the sauce smooth.

Can I prepare any parts of this dessert ahead of time?

Yes! The caramel sauce and cinnamon-baked apples can both be made a day ahead. Store them separately in the fridge and assemble the sundae just before serving to keep the ice cream from melting prematurely.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about the Salted Caramel Apple Sundae with Cinnamon-Baked Apples Recipe that makes it a staple for cozy nights and festive occasions alike. The blend of warm spices, sweet and salty caramel, and creamy vanilla ice cream creates a comforting hug in dessert form. I encourage you to make this recipe soon, share it with your loved ones, and enjoy every spoonful of this fall-inspired delight that never fails to impress.

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