Name: Apple Bourbon Dessert: Indulge in a Decadent Fall Treat
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-485113H58M53S
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 4 large apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well); 1 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 1/2 cup bourbon; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup rolled oats; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional); 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 cup milk; 1 egg; Vanilla ice cream (for serving)

Apple Bourbon Dessert is a delightful treat that perfectly marries the sweet, tart flavors of fresh apples with the rich, warm notes of bourbon. This recipe has its roots in traditional American cuisine, where apples have long been celebrated for their versatility and flavor. The addition of bourbon not only enhances the taste but also adds a touch of sophistication, making this dessert a favorite for gatherings and special occasions.

What I love most about this Apple Bourbon Dessert is its incredible balance of flavors and textures. The tender, caramelized apples provide a comforting sweetness, while the bourbon adds a depth that elevates the dish to new heights. Plus, its surprisingly easy to prepare, making it a go-to recipe for both novice and experienced bakers alike. Whether served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoyed on its own, this dessert is sure to impress and satisfy anyone with a sweet tooth. Join me as we dive into this delicious recipe that celebrates the classic combination of apples and bourbon!

Ingredients:

4 large apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
1 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1/2 cup bourbon
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup rolled oats
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 cup milk
1 egg
Vanilla ice cream (for serving)

Preparing the Apples

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your dessert bakes evenly.
While the oven is heating, wash and peel the apples. I like to use a vegetable peeler for this task, as it makes it quick and easy.
Once peeled, core the apples and slice them into thin wedges. Aim for about 1/4-inch thickness to ensure they cook evenly.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced apples with 1/2 cup of brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Toss everything together until the apples are well coated. Set this mixture aside to let the flavors meld.

Making the Bourbon Sauce

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 1/2 cup of unsalted butter. Be careful not to let it brown too much; we just want it melted.
Once the butter is melted, add the remaining 1/2 cup of brown sugar, 1/2 cup of bourbon, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Stir the mixture until the sugar is dissolved and everything is well combined. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for another 5 minutes. This will help to thicken the sauce slightly and enhance the bourbon flavor.

Preparing the Crust Topping

In a separate mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of rolled oats, 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda. If youre using nuts, add them in at this stage.
Mix the dry ingredients together until they are well combined. This will be the base for your topping.
In another bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup of milk and 1 egg until they are fully blended.
Pour the milk and egg mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine.

Assembling the Dessert

In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spread the apple mixture evenly across the bottom. Make sure to pour any remaining juices from the bowl over the apples for added flavor.
Next, drizzle the bourbon sauce over the apples, ensuring that every slice gets a taste of that delicious sauce.
Finally, spoon the oat topping over the apple and bourbon mixture. Try to cover as much of the apple layer as possible, but its okay if some apples peek through.

Baking the Dessert

Place the assembled dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are tender. You can check the apples by inserting a fork; they should be soft but not mushy.
Once baked, remove the dessert from the oven and let it cool for about 10-15 minutes. This will help the flavors settle and make it easier to serve.

Conclusion:

In summary, this Apple Bourbon Dessert is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to impress their friends and family with a delightful and unique treat. The combination of sweet, tender apples and the rich, warm notes of bourbon creates a flavor profile that is simply irresistible. Whether you serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, drizzle it with caramel sauce, or enjoy it on its own, this dessert is sure to become a favorite in your household. Feel free to get creative with variations! You can swap out the apples for pears or add a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra kick. If you’re feeling adventurous, try incorporating nuts or even a splash of maple syrup for a different twist. The possibilities are endless, and I encourage you to make this recipe your own. I can’t wait for you to try this Apple Bourbon Dessert! Once you do, please share your experience and any personal touches you added. Your feedback means the world to me, and I love hearing how my recipes inspire your culinary adventures. So grab those ingredients, get baking, and let the deliciousness unfold!