If you’ve been searching for a dessert that’s both cozy and impressive, you’re going to absolutely adore this Apple Crostata with Caramel Topping and Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe. I love this recipe because it’s the perfect balance of flaky, buttery crust, tender apple filling, and that luscious caramel drizzle paired with creamy vanilla ice cream—trust me, it’s a game changer! Whether it’s a casual weeknight treat or a special weekend indulgence, this crostata never disappoints.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple Ingredients: This recipe uses basic pantry staples you probably already have, making it super approachable.
No Fuss, Big Flavor: The rustic crostata style lets the apple filling shine without complicated layers or fuss.
Ultimate Comfort Dessert: Warm apple, cinnamon, buttery crust, and caramel topping—need I say more?
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting dinner or craving something sweet at home, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

A round tart with a golden brown crust sits on a white plate, with thin, soft slices of light brown fruit arranged in a circle across the top layer. The tart is drizzled with a smooth, light caramel sauce that adds a glossy shine. One slice is lifted by a silver server, showing the thin crust and soft fruit layers. The plate rests on a white marbled surface next to a green cloth napkin and stacked white plates with golden forks in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 - Apple Crostata with Caramel Topping and Vanilla Ice Cream, easy apple crostata, caramel apple dessert, homemade fruit tart, fall dessert recipes

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic behind this Apple Crostata with Caramel Topping and Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe happens because every ingredient complements the others to create that perfect harmony of flavors and textures. I suggest picking tart apples – they hold up beautifully when baked and add just the right tang to balance the sweetness.

Flat lay of peeled and sliced tart apples, cubes of cold butter, granulated sugar, all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon in a small pile, a whole large egg with a slight shine, and a drizzle of warm caramel sauce drizzled artistically, all beautifully arranged on a white marble surface, photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 - Apple Crostata with Caramel Topping and Vanilla Ice Cream, easy apple crostata, caramel apple dessert, homemade fruit tart, fall dessert recipes

All-purpose flour: For both the crust and filling, it gives structure without weighing things down.
Sugar: Balances the tartness of the apples and adds a lovely caramelizing effect when baked.
Salt: A pinch enhances all the flavors, especially in the crust.
Cold butter: This is key for that flaky, tender crust, so keep it chilled before mixing.
Cold water: Keeps the dough coming together without melting the butter prematurely.
Vanilla extract: A subtle but essential flavor boost in the dough.
Tart apples: I like Granny Smith or Braeburn for baking—they hold shape and offer bright flavor.
Cinnamon: Just a sprinkle in the topping to add warmth and spice.
Egg and water mixture: Gives the crust a beautiful golden shine and helps hold its shape.
Caramel ice cream topping: Warmed for drizzling over the finished crostata, adding indulgence.
Vanilla ice cream (optional): Because honestly, there’s nothing better than warm apple crostata paired with cold, creamy vanilla ice cream.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

One of the things I adore about this Apple Crostata with Caramel Topping and Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe is how easy it is to make your own. I often tweak it depending on what I have at home or the season—feel free to play around with apple varieties or toppings to make it truly yours.

Use different apples: I’ve tried this with Honeycrisp and Pink Lady apples too, which give a sweeter flavor and softer texture.
Add nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts on the filling add a delicious crunch that my family goes crazy for.
Spice it up: Toss in a pinch of nutmeg or ginger with the cinnamon for a warm, cozy twist.
Make it gluten-free: Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend to keep the crust tender and delicious.

How to Make Apple Crostata with Caramel Topping and Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe

Step 1: Make the Perfect Flaky Crust

Start by mixing the flour, sugar, and salt in a large bowl. Then, cut in the cold, cubed butter with a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs—don’t overwork it, or you’ll lose that flaky texture I love. Gradually add in the cold water and vanilla extract, tossing gently with a fork until dough begins to come together in a ball. Once you have the dough, cover it and pop it into the fridge for about 30 minutes. This chilling step is super important; it lets the gluten relax and the butter firm up, which means a better crust when baked.

Step 2: Prepare Your Apple Filling

While the dough chills, slice or chop your tart apples—bite-sized pieces work best so they cook evenly. Toss the apples with sugar and a bit of flour; this flour helps thicken the filling as it bakes so you won’t end up with a soggy mess. I love how this step creates that rich, juicy center every time.

Step 3: Roll Out and Assemble Your Crostata

Once chilled, roll your dough on a lightly floured surface into roughly a 10-inch circle. Don’t stress if it’s not a perfect circle; the rustic look is part of the charm! Transfer the dough to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Spread the apple filling in the center, leaving about 2 inches bare around the edge. Fold the edges up over the filling, pleating as you go. For the finishing touch before baking, sprinkle sugar and cinnamon over the apples, then whisk your egg with water and brush the crust edges. This gives the crust that glorious golden color and slight crispness once baked.

Step 4: Bake, Drizzle and Serve

Bake at 400°F for 25 to 30 minutes, until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. When it’s done, use the parchment paper to carefully slide the crostata onto a wire rack to cool slightly. The moment I take it out of the oven, I warm some caramel ice cream topping and drizzle it right over the warm apple filling. Serve it up with a scoop (or two!) of vanilla ice cream. The combo of warm, gooey fruit and cold creamy ice cream is honestly why my family keeps asking me to make this.

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Pro Tips for Making Apple Crostata with Caramel Topping and Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe

Keep Butter Ice Cold: Chilled butter chunks in the dough help create those irresistible flaky layers.
Don’t Overfill: Leaving a 2-inch border around the apples means your crust folds nicely and bakes evenly, avoiding sogginess.
Use Parchment Paper: It makes transferring and removing the crostata from the pan much easier—plus less clean-up!
Warm Caramel for Easy Drizzle: Heat your caramel topping slightly so it flows smoothly over the warm apples without clumping.

How to Serve Apple Crostata with Caramel Topping and Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe

A round apple galette with a golden brown crust edges a layer of thinly sliced apple pieces arranged in a fan shape, each slice dusted lightly with cinnamon. On top of the apple layer, there are three scoops of vanilla ice cream placed closely together in the center, each scoop drizzled with caramel sauce. Two slices have been separated from the galette on the right side, showing more apple layers inside. The galette is served on a round wooden board, set on a white marbled surface alongside a small white bowl of caramel sauce with a spoon in it, and a green and white striped cloth is partially visible to the left. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 - Apple Crostata with Caramel Topping and Vanilla Ice Cream, easy apple crostata, caramel apple dessert, homemade fruit tart, fall dessert recipes

Garnishes

I usually keep it simple with the garnishes just to highlight the crostata itself. A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a pretty visual and subtle sweetness. Sometimes, for extra flair, I sprinkle chopped toasted pecans over the caramel drizzle for crunch. If you want a pop of color and freshness, a few sprigs of fresh mint never disappoint.

Side Dishes

This dessert shines on its own, but if you’re planning a fall-inspired dinner, I love serving it alongside spiced warm cider or a pumpkin soup to keep the cozy vibe going. For a brunch treat, pairing with a lightly brewed chai tea works beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For birthdays or special celebrations, I’ve served individual-sized crostatas in ramekins for a charming single-serve dessert. Another fun idea I tried was drizzling caramel in a zig-zag pattern across plates and placing a crostata slice on top, finished with a scoop of vanilla ice cream—instantly Insta-worthy!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftover crostata in an airtight container at room temperature if planning to eat it within a day. Beyond that, the fridge is best to keep it fresh, though I prefer to let it come back to room temperature or warm it gently before serving—it really revives the flavors and texture.

Freezing

I’ve successfully frozen unbaked crostata dough wrapped tightly in plastic, which I thaw in the fridge before assembling and baking. You can also freeze baked crostata slices wrapped well—just thaw and reheat gently to enjoy later. This makes it a fantastic make-ahead dessert for busy evenings.

Reheating

To warm leftovers, I pop the crostata into a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes until warmed through and the crust is crisp again. Avoid the microwave—it tends to make the crust soggy. A quick oven reheat does wonders to bring back that just-baked feeling.

FAQs

Can I use any type of apples for this crostata?

While you can use almost any apple variety, I recommend tart and firm types like Granny Smith or Braeburn so the filling holds its shape during baking without becoming mushy.
Is it necessary to chill the dough before baking?

Yes! Chilling the dough helps the butter stay cold and prevents the crust from shrinking during baking, ensuring it stays flaky and crisp.
Can I make the caramel topping from scratch?

Absolutely. While using store-bought caramel topping is convenient, homemade caramel sauce made with butter, brown sugar, and cream adds a rich homemade touch if you have the time.
What’s the best way to store leftover crostata?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat gently in the oven for best texture. Avoid microwaving to keep the crust crisp.

Final Thoughts

This Apple Crostata with Caramel Topping and Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe holds a special place in my heart because it’s just one of those desserts that feels like a warm hug on a plate. I remember the first time I made it for my family—they devoured it so fast, I knew it had to become a staple. I promise you’ll enjoy how uncomplicated it is to make yet rich and satisfying in every bite. Give it a try next time you want a simple, elegant dessert that brings all the cozy fall flavors to life!