Are you ready to indulge in a truly spectacular dessert? This Caramel Apple Crown Royal recipe is the perfect blend of sweet, tart, and boozy goodness, guaranteed to impress your friends and family. It's surprisingly easy to make, perfect for a cozy night in or a sophisticated gathering. Forget those complicated recipes; this one delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. Let's get started on this journey to deliciousness!
Ingredients:
- 4 large Granny Smith apples (or your favorite tart apple variety)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup Crown Royal Canadian Whisky (or other whiskey of your choice)
- Optional: Chopped pecans or walnuts for garnish
- Optional: Caramel sauce for drizzling
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Wash and thoroughly dry the apples. Using a sharp paring knife, carefully remove the core from each apple, leaving about ½ inch at the bottom intact. This will help the apple hold its shape.
Make the Caramel:
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In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and water. Do not stir. Let the sugar melt and slowly turn into a golden brown caramel. This takes patience; avoid rushing the process.
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Once the caramel is a deep amber color, carefully remove the pan from the heat. Slowly whisk in the butter until it's fully incorporated. Be cautious, as the caramel will be very hot.
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Gradually whisk in the heavy cream. This will cause the caramel to bubble up, so be prepared. Stir until smooth.
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Stir in the vanilla extract and Crown Royal.
Assemble the Apple Crowns:
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Carefully place the cored apples in a baking dish.
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Pour the warm caramel sauce over the apples, ensuring they are fully coated.
Bake & Serve:
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Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the caramel is bubbly. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
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Let the apples cool slightly before serving. Garnish with chopped pecans or walnuts and a drizzle of extra caramel sauce, if desired.
Cooking Tips for the Best Caramel Apple Crown Royal:
- Use a good quality whiskey: The flavor of the whiskey will shine through, so choose one you enjoy.
- Don't stir the sugar while it's melting: This can cause it to crystallize.
- Be careful when working with hot caramel: It can cause serious burns.
- Adjust baking time as needed: Depending on the size of your apples, you may need to adjust the baking time.
Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the caramel for a warm, spiced flavor.
- Go nutty: Try adding other nuts like almonds or macadamia nuts for different textural experiences.
- Booze-free version: Simply omit the Crown Royal for a delicious alcohol-free dessert.
- Apple Variety: Experiment with different apple varieties for a unique flavor profile. Honeycrisp or Fuji apples offer a sweeter taste.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and will vary based on specific ingredients used and serving size. It’s always recommended to use a nutritional calculator for precise values.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Fat: High
- Sugar: High
- Protein: Low
This Caramel Apple Crown Royal recipe is a simple yet elegant dessert perfect for any occasion. Enjoy this delectable treat, and remember to share it with your loved ones! Happy baking!