Description: This classic apple crumble recipe features a sweet and tart apple filling topped with a buttery, oaty crumble. It’s a comforting and easy-to-make dessert, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
Apple Filling:
- 6 large apples (such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji), peeled, cored, and sliced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Crumble Topping:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup rolled oats (old-fashioned)
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- Pinch of salt
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch baking dish.
Step 2: In a large bowl, toss apples with lemon juice, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg until evenly coated. The lemon juice prevents the apples from browning and adds a touch of brightness.
Step 3: Spread the apple mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Ensure the apples are distributed in an even layer for uniform cooking.
Step 4: In another bowl, combine all-purpose flour, rolled oats, packed brown sugar, and a pinch of salt. The oats add texture and a nutty flavor to the crumble topping.
Step 5: Cut in the cold, cubed butter using your fingers or a pastry cutter. Work quickly to keep the butter cold. The mixture should resemble coarse crumbs. Chilled butter is crucial for creating a crumbly, not doughy, topping.
Step 6: Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the apple mixture. Make sure to cover the entire surface for a consistent crumble layer.
Step 7: Bake in the preheated oven for 40–45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are tender when pierced with a fork. The baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven.
Step 8: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. This allows the apple filling to set a bit, making it easier to serve.
Why you’ll love this recipe:
This homemade apple crumble is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser because it’s:
- Easy to make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, anyone can make it.
- Comforting: The warm, spiced apples and buttery crumble topping are the perfect comfort food.
- Versatile: Adaptable to your taste, you can adjust the spices, add nuts, or use different types of apples.
- Perfect for any occasion: Great for weeknight dinners, holiday gatherings, or a special dessert.
- Delicious: The combination of tart apples and sweet crumble is simply irresistible.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cold ice cream complements the warm crumble perfectly.
- Drizzle with warm custard or whipped cream.
- Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dusting of powdered sugar.
- Pairs well with a cup of coffee or tea.
Tips:
- Use a mix of apple varieties for a more complex flavor. Granny Smith apples provide tartness, while Honeycrisp or Fuji apples add sweetness.
- Make sure the butter is very cold for the best crumble texture. You can even freeze the butter for 10-15 minutes before using.
- Don’t overmix the crumble topping; you want to keep the butter in small pieces to create a crumbly texture.
- If the topping starts to brown too quickly, cover the dish loosely with foil.
- For a richer flavor, add a tablespoon of bourbon or rum to the apple filling.
- To prevent the bottom crust from becoming soggy, you can blind-bake it for 10 minutes before adding the apple filling.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
Total Time: 60-65 minutes
Nutrition Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 3g
- Sodium: 100mg
Conclusion:
This Homemade Apple Crumble recipe is a timeless dessert that’s sure to delight. With its warm, comforting flavors and easy preparation, it’s the perfect way to end any meal. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner, this recipe is simple enough for everyone to create a delicious dessert. Enjoy the delightful combination of sweet apples and buttery crumble, and customize it with your favorite additions for a unique twist.
Questions and Answers:
Q1: Can I use a different type of apple?
A1: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different apple varieties. Granny Smith apples provide a tartness that balances the sweetness of the crumble, but you can also use Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala apples for a sweeter flavor. A mix of apple types can add complexity to the dish.
Q2: Can I make this ahead of time?
A2: Yes, you can prepare the apple filling and crumble topping separately ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator and assemble just before baking. You can also bake the entire crumble and reheat it before serving.
Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store leftover apple crumble in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat it in the oven or microwave before serving.
Q4: Can I freeze apple crumble?
A4: Yes, you can freeze apple crumble before or after baking. If freezing before baking, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. If freezing after baking, let it cool completely before wrapping. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Q5: Can I add nuts to the crumble topping?
A5: Definitely! Adding chopped nuts like walnuts, pecans, or almonds to the crumble topping can add a lovely crunch and flavor. Simply mix them in with the other dry ingredients before adding the butter.
