Imagine a dessert that combines the rustic charm of classic apple crisp with the luxurious richness of authentic Mexican cajeta - a heavenly caramel that transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary culinary experience. This Apple Cajeta recipe is not just a dessert; it's a journey through Mexican flavor traditions that will transport you to sun-drenched orchards and bustling street markets with every single bite. Prepare to be amazed by a dessert that's both comfortingly familiar and excitingly exotic!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 3 apples, peeled and sliced
- 1 cup cajeta (goat milk caramel)
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 cup granola
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a 9x9 inch baking dish by lightly greasing it with butter or cooking spray.
- Wash, peel, and core the apples. Slice them into uniform thin wedges, approximately 1/4 inch thick, to ensure even cooking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced apples with sugar, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg. Gently toss to coat the apple slices evenly with the spice mixture.
- Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, pour half the butter over the seasoned apple slices and mix gently.
- Arrange the seasoned apple slices in the prepared baking dish, creating an even layer.
- Warm the cajeta in a small saucepan over low heat until it becomes slightly runny, which will make it easier to drizzle.
- Pour the warm cajeta evenly over the arranged apple slices, ensuring complete coverage.
- Sprinkle the granola over the top of the cajeta-coated apples, creating a crunchy topping layer.
- Drizzle the remaining melted butter over the granola to help it brown and crisp during baking.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the top is golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let the dish cool for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the cajeta to set slightly and makes serving easier.
- Serve warm, optionally accompanied by vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra indulgent dessert.
Tips
- Choose firm, slightly tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best texture and flavor balance.
- Make sure to slice apples uniformly to ensure even cooking and consistent texture.
- Warm the cajeta gently to prevent burning - low and slow is the key to smooth caramel.
- For extra crunch, toast the granola briefly in a dry skillet before adding to the recipe.
- If cajeta is too thick, thin it with a little warm milk or cream.
- Let the dessert rest for 10 minutes after baking to allow flavors to meld and caramel to set slightly.
- Serve immediately for the best contrast between warm, soft apples and crispy granola topping.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 65g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 50mg
