Simple Apple Crumble Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting dessert that is both easy to make and universally loved, this Simple Apple Crumble Recipe is the perfect choice. With its sweet, cinnamon-spiced apple filling and buttery, crispy crumble topping, it’s an ideal treat for cozy evenings, family gatherings, or any time you crave a homemade dessert. This recipe is straightforward enough for beginners, yet satisfying for seasoned bakers, making it a versatile go-to dessert for everyone.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This apple crumble recipe is a classic for several reasons:

1. Quick and Simple: It requires minimal ingredients and takes less than an hour to make from start to finish.
2. Customizable: You can easily adjust the spices and sweetness to your taste, or even add extras like nuts or dried fruit.
3. Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight treat or a special holiday dessert, this apple crumble is always a hit.

Ingredients for Simple Apple Crumble

To make this delightful dessert, you will need the following ingredients:

• 6 apples – Choose firm varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn.
• ½ teaspoon grated nutmeg – Adds a warm, earthy flavor.
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon – For that classic apple pie spice.
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar – Adds richness and depth to the filling.
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour – Helps thicken the apple juices as they bake.
• 1 tablespoon white sugar – Balances the tartness of the apples.
• Juice of half a lemon – Prevents browning and adds a hint of tartness.

For the crumble topping:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour – You can substitute with self-raising flour if desired.
• 1 cup porridge oats – Adds a hearty texture to the crumble.
• 125 g butter – Use cold butter for a crumbly texture; melted butter for a softer topping.
• 1 cup light brown sugar – Sweetens the topping with a mild molasses flavor.
• ¼ teaspoon salt – A pinch to balance the sweetness.

this RECIPE

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Oven
• Baking dish (preferably an enamel or ceramic dish)
• Peeler and corer
• Knife and chopping board
• Mixing bowls
• Spoon for mixing
• Grater (for nutmeg)

How to Make Simple Apple Crumble

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (375°F). Grease a baking dish lightly with butter to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Apples: Peel, core, and chop the apples into bite-sized chunks. Transfer the chopped apples into the prepared baking dish.
3. Add Spices and Sweeteners: Sprinkle the apples with all-purpose flour, brown sugar, white sugar, cinnamon, and grated nutmeg. Toss the mixture to ensure the apples are evenly coated. Finally, drizzle with the juice of half a lemon to enhance the flavors and prevent browning.
4. Make the Crumble Topping: In a separate mixing bowl, combine the oats, all-purpose flour, light brown sugar, and a pinch of salt. Add the cold butter, cut into small cubes, and rub it into the dry ingredients using your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs. It’s okay to leave some larger chunks of butter for a varied texture in the crumble.
5. Assemble the Crumble: Evenly sprinkle the crumble mixture over the spiced apple filling, making sure to cover all the apples.
6. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crispy, and the apple filling is bubbling.
7. Serve: Remove the apple crumble from the oven and let it stand for a few minutes. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of custard for a classic combination.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Apple Crumble

• Use Cold Butter: Cold butter ensures a crumbly, crispy topping. If you prefer a softer topping, use melted butter instead.
• Choose the Right Apples: Opt for firm and tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, which hold their shape and offer a good balance of sweetness and tartness.
• Customize the Crumble: Add chopped nuts, like pecans or almonds, to the topping for extra crunch, or mix in dried fruits like raisins for added flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overmixing the Topping: Avoid overmixing the butter with the dry ingredients. The goal is to achieve a crumbly texture, so it’s okay if some chunks of butter remain.
• Using Too Much Lemon Juice: While lemon juice enhances flavor, too much can make the filling overly tart. Stick to the juice of half a lemon.
• Not Baking Long Enough: Ensure the topping is golden and crispy before removing the crumble from the oven. This usually takes around 35-40 minutes.

Variations and Substitutions

• Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free flour and certified gluten-free oats to make the recipe suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
• Different Fruits: Try substituting some of the apples with pears, berries, or peaches for a twist on the classic.
• Lower Sugar Option: Reduce the amount of sugar or use a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

• Serve with Ice Cream: Vanilla ice cream is a classic pairing that complements the warm spiced apples perfectly.
• Drizzle with Custard: A rich custard sauce adds a comforting, creamy texture.
• Top with Whipped Cream: Lightly sweetened whipped cream adds an airy contrast to the crumble’s dense texture.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

To store leftover apple crumble:

• Refrigerate: Allow the crumble to cool completely, then cover it with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: You can freeze the crumble in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm in a preheated oven at 180°C (375°F) until heated through.

FAQs About Simple Apple Crumble

1. Can I make the crumble topping in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the crumble topping ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.

2. What kind of apples work best for apple crumble?
Firm, tart apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn are best as they hold their shape and provide a nice balance of flavors.

3. Can I use instant oats instead of porridge oats?
Porridge oats give a better texture, but instant oats can be used in a pinch. The texture may be finer and slightly less crunchy.

Conclusion

There you have it, a delicious and simple apple crumble recipe that’s sure to delight your taste buds and impress your guests. Perfect for any occasion, this dessert is easy to customize and even easier to love. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family, and subscribe to our blog for more delightful recipes and cooking tips!

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