why make this recipe

Apple crumble, often referred to as apple crisp, is a beloved dessert that brings warmth and comfort to any occasion. Its simplicity captures the essence of home baking, making it an ideal dish for novice and experienced bakers alike. The harmonious combination of tender, spiced apples paired with a crunchy, buttery topping creates a delightful textural contrast that resonates with many. Besides its delicious flavor, this recipe is a fantastic way to utilize fresh, seasonal apples, ensuring you make the most of nature’s bounty while providing a treat that everyone will enjoy.

how to make Simple Apple Crumble

Crafting a delicious apple crumble is straightforward and requires just a few steps. This recipe balances the sweetness of the apples with warm spices and a crumbly topping, culminating in a dessert that’s as pleasing to the palate as it is to the eye.

Ingredients:

6 apples
½ tsp grated nutmeg (or as needed)
½ tsp cinnamon (or as needed)
2 Tbsp brown sugar
1 Tbsp all-purpose flour
1 Tbsp white sugar
Juice of half a lemon
1 cup all-purpose flour (substitute for self-raising flour)
1 cup porridge oat
125 g butter (you can use melted butter or cold softened; I use cold butter)
1 cup light brown sugar (or as needed)
¼ tsp salt (I love to add a pinch to the topping to balance the sweetness)

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 180°C (375°F) and prepare your baking dish.
Peel, core, and chop the apples, then transfer them into the baking pan.
In a bowl, mix the chopped apples with flour, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Combine well, then add half the juice of half a lemon and stir again to distribute the flavors.
In another bowl, mix the oats, all-purpose flour, brown sugar, cold butter, and a pinch of salt. Rub the ingredients with your fingers until you achieve a breadcrumbs-like consistency. It’s okay to have some larger chunks for added texture!
Sprinkle the crumble topping consistently over the apple mixture in the baking pan.
Bake in the oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the topping is crispy and golden, with the apple filling bubbling underneath.
Once done, remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of custard.

how to serve Simple Apple Crumble

Serving your apple crumble can turn a simple dessert into a memorable dish. For an inviting presentation, dish up warm portions in bowls and top them generously with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a splash of creamy custard. You can also add a sprinkle of cinnamon or some toasted nuts for a crunchy, indulgent touch. Pair it with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat or serve it at gatherings for a comforting dessert everyone will love.

how to store

To preserve the deliciousness of your apple crumble, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it in the oven at a low temperature until warmed throughout. For longer storage, you can freeze the apple crumble before baking it. Just wrap it tightly and you can keep it in the freezer for up to three months. To bake from frozen, just add extra time to the baking process, ensuring it’s cooked through.

tips to make

Choose the Right Apples: Opt for a mix of tart and sweet apples for a balanced flavor profile. Varieties like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp work wonderfully.
Adjust Sweetness: Depending on your taste and the type of apples used, you might want to adjust the amount of sugar in the recipe. Taste the apple mixture before baking and tweak it as needed.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the apple filling and crumble topping separately in advance. Just store them in the fridge and assemble them before baking.
Add Nuts: For a delightful crunch, incorporate some chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, into the topping mixture.

variation

Feel free to personalize this recipe! You can add a layer of mixed berries or add some dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for a tangy twist. Experiment with spices, such as cardamom or ginger, for added warmth. You could also introduce a bit of coconut for a tropical flair or substitute some of the oats with ground almonds or flour for a different texture.

FAQs

Q: Can I use other fruits for this crumble?
A: Absolutely! This crumble recipe is versatile. You can substitute apples with pears, peaches, or even mixed berries, adjusting the sugar levels based on the sweetness of the fruit.

Q: Can I make the crumble topping without butter?
A: Yes, you can substitute the butter with coconut oil or a plant-based margarine to make it dairy-free. Alternatively, using a nut butter can provide a delicious flavor while keeping the topping cohesive.

Q: How can I make this gluten-free?
A: To make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free oats. Ensure that any other pre-packaged ingredients are certified gluten-free as well.