Apple Crumble

Wow, guess what I just baked? It’s apple crumble! I can still smell that sweet, warm goodness in my kitchen. I adore how the apples get all soft and cozy. The crumbly topping is super crunchy and sweet. It feels like a warm hug for my taste buds. I want everyone to enjoy this treat as much as I do. It’s such a simple dessert that brings so much joy. It makes me feel all fuzzy inside. Let’s whip up an apple crumble together. Grab some apples, flour, and sugar. We’ll have a tasty dessert in no time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic Comfort Dessert: Perfectly spiced apples paired with a crunchy topping create a nostalgic, heartwarming treat.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples—no fancy ingredients required.
• Quick and Easy: No need to roll out pastry or prepare a crust—just toss, top, and bake.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Serve it warm for a cozy night in or as a holiday dessert centerpiece.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep in advance and bake when ready for a fresh, warm crumble.

What You Need to Know Before You Start

Prep Time & Cook Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

Servings

This recipe makes 6 servings—perfect for sharing. Want more? Double the recipe and use a larger baking dish.

Difficulty

Beginner-friendly—anyone can make it!

Required Kitchen Tools

To prepare this delicious Apple Crumble, you’ll need:

• Baking Dish (8×8 or 9×9-inch): The perfect size for even baking.
• Mixing Bowls: One for the apple filling, another for the crumble topping.
• Pastry Cutter or Fork: Helps blend butter into the topping for a crumbly texture.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient portions.
• Knife and Peeler: To prep the apples quickly.

Ingredients for the Apple Filling

• 4 large Granny Smith apples – peeled, cored, and sliced thinly
• ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar or brown sugar – adds sweetness and balances tart apples
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice – prevents browning and enhances flavor
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (or all-purpose flour) – thickens the apple filling
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon – adds warmth and depth
• Pinch of salt – enhances all the flavors

Ingredients for the Crumble Topping

• ¾ cup (94g) all-purpose flour – provides structure to the crumble
• ½ cup (100g) brown sugar – gives a rich, caramel-like sweetness
• ½ teaspoon baking powder – helps the topping get crispy
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon – pairs well with the apples
• 6 tablespoons (85g) unsalted butter, melted – binds everything together for a crisp, buttery crumble
• Pinch of salt – balances the sweetness

Variations for Apple Crumble

• Make It Gluten-Free: Use almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend in the topping.
• Add Nuts: Mix in chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch.
• Oats Variation: Swap ¼ cup of flour for old-fashioned oats to add a chewy texture.
• Extra Flavor: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for a deeper spice profile.
• Caramel Twist: Drizzle caramel sauce over the apples before adding the crumble topping.
• Berry Blend: Mix in raspberries or blueberries with the apples for a fruity variation.

How to Make Apple Crumble

Step 1: Prepare the Apple Filling

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
2. Peel, core, and slice the apples into thin wedges. Try to keep them evenly sliced for consistent baking.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the sliced apples, granulated sugar (or brown sugar), lemon juice, cornstarch, cinnamon, and salt. Toss everything together until the apples are evenly coated.
4. Transfer the apple mixture to the greased baking dish, spreading them out in an even layer.

Step 2: Make the Crumble Topping

1. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
2. Add the melted butter and stir with a fork or spoon until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. It should hold together when squeezed but still be crumbly.
3. Evenly sprinkle the crumble topping over the apple filling, covering as much surface as possible.

Step 3: Bake the Apple Crumble

1. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are soft and bubbling.
2. Check doneness by inserting a fork into the apples—they should be tender but not mushy.
3. Remove from oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes before serving.

How to Serve Apple Crumble

This dessert is best enjoyed warm, straight from the oven. Here are some delicious serving ideas:

• With Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla, caramel, or cinnamon ice cream makes the perfect pairing.
• With Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light, airy contrast to the crisp topping.
• With Caramel Sauce: Drizzle some warm caramel over the crumble for an extra indulgent treat.
• With Yogurt: A spoonful of Greek yogurt can balance the sweetness and add a creamy texture.

How to Store Apple Crumble

Room Temperature:

• If planning to eat within a few hours, cover it with foil or plastic wrap and leave it at room temperature.

Refrigerator:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes to crisp up the topping again.

Freezing:

• Unbaked: Assemble the crumble, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding 10 extra minutes to the baking time.
• Baked: Let it cool completely, then wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.

Nutrition Information

Here’s an estimated nutrition breakdown per serving (based on 6 servings):

Nutrient	Amount Per Serving
Calories	290 kcal
Carbohydrates	45g
Sugar	28g
Protein	2g
Fat	12g
Saturated Fat	7g
Fiber	4g
Sodium	80mg

(Note: Values are approximate and depend on ingredient brands.)

Apple Crumble FAQs

1. Can I use different types of apples?

Yes! While Granny Smith apples provide a nice tart balance, you can also use Honeycrisp, Fuji, or a mix for added depth of flavor.

2. How do I make this recipe dairy-free?

Simply swap unsalted butter for a plant-based alternative like coconut oil or vegan butter.

3. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the apple filling and crumble topping separately, store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours, and assemble just before baking.

4. Why is my crumble topping not crispy?

If your topping is too soft, try baking it for an extra 5 minutes. Also, avoid using too much butter—excess moisture can prevent crisping.

5. Can I make this recipe in a larger batch?

Absolutely! Simply double the ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch dish. Increase baking time by about 10 minutes.

Conclusion

Apple Crumble is a simple yet delightful dessert that brings warmth and comfort to any occasion. Whether you enjoy it fresh out of the oven with a scoop of ice cream or as a make-ahead treat, this classic dessert is always a crowd-pleaser. Try out the variations, experiment with different toppings, and make it your own!

If you enjoyed this recipe, let me know how it turned out for you. Happy baking!