Apple Crumble is a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s one of those desserts that can transform the simplest of gatherings into something special. Imagine biting into warm, tender apples mixed with a touch of sugar and spice, all beneath a golden, crumbly topping. It’s not just about taste; it’s also about the lovely aroma filling your kitchen. Whether you’re hosting friends for a cozy dinner or just enjoying a quiet night in, this apple crumble makes everything feel a bit more festive. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to showcase those crisp, sweet apples that you find at the local market. So, let’s get ready to indulge in this classic comfort food. Get your apron on—this recipe has a few simple steps that anyone can follow, and I promise you, the result will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Why This Recipe Works
Apple crumble is a classic dessert that combines the sweetness of baked apples with a crunchy, crumbly topping. The balance of flavor and texture makes it a universal favorite, enhancing the natural goodness of seasonal apples. This recipe ensures that every bite is filled with rich, caramelized flavors while the topping provides a delightful contrast.
Why You’ll Love This Apple Crumble
This apple crumble recipe is easy to prepare and perfect for gatherings or cozy evenings at home. The aroma of cinnamon and baked apples fills the kitchen, creating an inviting atmosphere. Serve it warm with ice cream for a comforting treat that everyone will adore.
Ingredients for Apple Crumble
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 8 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- 2 ½ pounds Granny Smith apples (peeled, cored, and diced into bite-sized pieces, about 6 to 7 cups)
- ½ cup granulated sugar (or brown sugar)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (or all-purpose flour)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Preparing the Crumble Topping
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, brown sugar, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon. Whisk these ingredients together until well incorporated. This will form the base of your crumble, adding just the right amount of sweetness and spice to the dessert.
Add Melted Butter
Pour the melted unsalted butter into the bowl and stir with a fork until the mixture becomes crumbly. You want it to look like small pebbles—this is what gives that crunchy texture. Set aside, and don’t worry if it looks a bit messy; that’s perfectly fine!
Preparing the Apple Filling
Combine Apple Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix the diced Granny Smith apples with granulated sugar, lemon juice, cornstarch (or flour), and ground cinnamon. Ensure all apple pieces are coated evenly. The lemon juice will help brighten the flavor, while the sugar and spice enhance the apples’ natural sweetness.
Transfer to Baking Dish
Spread the apple mixture evenly into a lightly greased 8 or 9-inch baking dish. You want the apples to be in a single layer, making it easier for them to cook evenly.
Add Crumble Topping
Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the apple filling, ensuring it covers all the apples. This crust will turn golden and crisp while baking, creating that iconic crunchy layer.
Baking the Apple Crumble
Bake in Preheated Oven
Place the baking dish in a preheated oven set to 375°F and bake for 35 to 45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. The smell wafting from the oven will be hard to resist!
Cool and Serve
Allow the apple crumble to cool for about 15 minutes before serving. This short wait helps the filling set a bit, making it easier to serve. Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an irresistible combination; the hot and cold contrast brings the dish to a whole new level!
Serving Suggestions
Serve the apple crumble warm, paired with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. A drizzle of caramel sauce on top can elevate the flavor, while a sprinkle of crushed nuts adds an extra crunch. If you really want to impress, try adding a dollop of freshly whipped cream.
Tips for Success
- Ensure apples are tart, like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, to balance the sweetness of the crumble. Tart apples give that perfect zing!
- Use cold butter for a flakier crumble. This makes a noticeable difference in texture.
- Let the crumble cool slightly to allow the filling to set for easier serving. This way, it doesn’t all fall apart when you scoop it!
Variations
- Substitute other fruits like peaches, berries, or pears for a different flavor profile. Each fruit brings its unique taste that pairs beautifully with the crumble.
- Add oats to the crumble mixture for a heartier texture. It gives an additional crunch!
- Spice it up by incorporating nutmeg or ginger in the apple filling. These spices can bring warmth to your dessert.
Storage Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture or microwave for quick warming. A quick splash of water before microwaving keeps the apples from drying out too much.
Pairing Ideas
Pair this apple crumble with spiced chai tea or a glass of warm apple cider for a cozy fall experience. It can also complement a scoop of cinnamon ice cream for an added delicious twist, making the experience that much more enjoyable.
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of apples?
Yes, you can use other tart apples like Honeycrisp or Braeburn for different flavors.
2. Is it possible to make it gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
3. Can I prepare the crumble ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the topping and filling separately, then combine and bake when ready to serve.
4. How do I store leftover apple crumble?
Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
5. Can I freeze apple crumble?
Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Just cover tightly and bake from frozen, adding extra time as needed.
This apple crumble recipe is the perfect dessert for any occasion, bringing warmth and sweetness to your table. With its easy preparation and delightful taste, it’s sure to become a cherished family favorite. Whether served at holiday gatherings or simply enjoyed at home, each bite is a nostalgic reminder of warmer seasons. Enjoy this simple yet satisfying dessert, and feel free to make it your own with various toppings or additions!
Print
Apple Crumble
This apple crumble is a comforting dessert that highlights the sweet and tart flavor of Granny Smith apples, topped with a crunchy, golden crust. Perfect for any occasion!
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 8 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- 2 ½ pounds Granny Smith apples (peeled, cored, and diced into bite-sized pieces, about 6 to 7 cups)
- ½ cup granulated sugar (or brown sugar)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (or all-purpose flour)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- Mix flour, brown sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon in a bowl.
- Add melted butter and stir until crumbly.
- Mix diced apples with sugar, lemon juice, cornstarch, and cinnamon.
- Spread the apple mixture in a greased baking dish.
- Top with crumble mixture.
- Bake for 35 to 45 minutes until topping is golden brown and filling is bubbling.
- Cool for 15 minutes and serve.
Last Step:
Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.Notes
Use tart apples like Granny Smith for the best flavor.
Cold butter helps create a flakier topping.
Let the crumble cool slightly to make serving easier.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 20
- Sodium: 150
- Fat: 15
- Saturated Fat: 9
- Unsaturated Fat: 5
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 45
- Fiber: 4
- Protein: 3
- Cholesterol: 30
