There’s something undeniably comforting about the smell of apples baking with a warm blend of cinnamon—the kind of aroma that wraps around you like a cozy blanket on a chilly evening. Imagine coming home after a long day to find this Apple Crumble filling your kitchen with its inviting fragrance.
I discovered this delightful recipe during a family gathering, where the sweet and buttery crumble disappeared faster than we could even serve it! If you’re like me and tired of the fast-food routine, this simple dessert is a fantastic way to bring homemade warmth back into your kitchen. With just a handful of ingredients and about 50 minutes, you can create a dessert that’s not only incredibly delicious but also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Picture this: a tender layer of apples peeking through a crispy, golden topping, perfectly complemented by a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Whether for a potluck, a cozy family dinner, or just a treat for yourself, this Apple Crumble is bound to make your taste buds sing!
Why You'll Love This Apple Crumble
- This Apple Crumble is incredibly easy to make, perfect for even novice bakers who want to whip up something delicious in no time.
- The warm, rich flavors of cinnamon and sweet apples create a comforting dessert that will leave everyone craving more.
- Its versatility allows you to customize the fruit and add your favorite toppings, making it a true personal favorite for any occasion.
- The stunning presentation of a golden crust over juicy apples makes it as visually appealing as it is mouthwatering.
Apple Crumble Ingredients
For the Apples
- Medium apples – 4–5 apples, peeled and sliced, are essential for that sweet-tart filling.
- Granulated sugar – 1/2 cup helps to sweeten the apples and balance their tartness.
- Cinnamon – 1 teaspoon adds a warm spice that complements the apples perfectly.
- Lemon juice – 1 tablespoon brightens the flavors and prevents browning.
- All-purpose flour – 1 tablespoon helps thicken the apple mixture, keeping it juicy but not too runny.
For the Crumble Topping
- All-purpose flour – 1 cup forms the base of the crumble for that delightful texture.
- Rolled oats – 1 cup adds chewiness and a wholesome heartiness to the topping.
- Brown sugar (packed) – 1/2 cup brings richness and a deep caramel flavor to the crumble.
- Unsalted butter (cold, cut into small cubes) – 1/2 cup is key for a crumbly texture; use cold for the best results.
- Salt – 1/2 teaspoon enhances sweetness and balances flavors.
- Cinnamon – 1/2 teaspoon sprinkled in the crumble ties the dish together with its warm notes.
This Apple Crumble is sure to become a beloved recipe in your home!
How to Make Apple Crumble
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial for ensuring even baking. While your kitchen warms up, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prepare for the delicious layers ahead.
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Combine the sliced apples, granulated sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and flour in a large bowl. Toss everything together until the apples are well coated in the sweet and spicy mixture—this will enhance their flavor beautifully.
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Pour the apple mixture into your prepared baking dish evenly. Make sure the apples are spread out so that every bite will be filled with that cinnamon goodness.
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Mix the flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, salt, and cinnamon in a separate bowl. This dry mixture will form the delightful, crunchy topping that contrasts wonderfully with the tender apples.
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Add the cold butter cubes to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry cutter, fork, or your fingers to cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This gives your crumble that essential, buttery texture.
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Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the apple filling. Ensuring that the topping covers all the apples will help keep them juicy and delicious as it bakes.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are bubbly. Your kitchen will start smelling heavenly!
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Cool the apple crumble for about 10 minutes before serving. This resting time helps the juices settle, making it easier to serve.
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Serve warm, optionally with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. This indulgence will elevate your dessert to a whole new level of deliciousness!
Optional: Drizzle with caramel sauce for an extra touch of sweetness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Apple Crumble?
Imagine a delightful spread of flavors that perfectly complements the warmth of your freshly baked dessert.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that adds a creamy, cool contrast to the hot, spiced apple filling, creating a symphony of textures.
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Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, whipped cream enhances the sweetness of the crumble, making every bite feel indulgent and dreamy.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzle it over the top for a rich, sweet note that elevates the whole dessert, adding an irresistible stickiness that kids and adults alike adore.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful medley of fruits provides a refreshing, tangy balance that cuts through the sweetness of the crumble, brightening up your plate.
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Coffee or Tea: The warmth of a robust coffee or soothing herbal tea pairs beautifully with the cinnamon notes in the crumble, making it a perfect end to any meal.
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Cheddar Cheese: Serve a slice of sharp cheddar alongside for a unique sweet-and-savory experience that’s surprisingly delightful and adds depth to your dessert table.
Each of these options enhances the comfort and joy of your Apple Crumble, allowing you to create a memorable dining experience for friends and family.
How to Store and Freeze Apple Crumble
Room Temperature: Keep the cooled Apple Crumble covered at room temperature for up to 3 days for the best texture and flavor.
Fridge: Store leftover Apple Crumble in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave for a warm treat.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the Apple Crumble after it has cooled completely, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil, for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat at 350°F (175°C) for about 15–20 minutes until warmed through and crispy on top.
Make Ahead Options
These Apple Crumble preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can slice and toss the apples (with sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and flour) up to 24 hours in advance; just refrigerate them in an airtight container to maintain their freshness and prevent browning. Similarly, the crumble topping can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days; ensure it’s in a sealed container to keep it crisp. When you’re ready to bake, simply layer the apple mixture in your baking dish, sprinkle the topping on, and pop it in the oven. You’ll end up with a delicious, warm dessert with minimal effort, allowing you to enjoy more quality time with loved ones!
Apple Crumble Variations
Feel free to get creative with your Apple Crumble and make it truly your own!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to enjoy this dessert while keeping it gluten-free. This will allow those with gluten sensitivities to savor the delightful flavors without missing out.
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Spiced Apples: Enhance the apple mixture by adding a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for a warm, spiced version. This twist brings an extra layer of warmth that will make your home smell even better.
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Nutty Topping: Incorporate chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans into the crumble for added crunch and a delightful nutty flavor. Simply mix in 1/2 cup of your favorite nuts to the topping mixture—perfect for nut lovers!
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Berry Boost: Toss in a cup of fresh or frozen berries along with the apples for a burst of color and flavor. The sweet-tart berries complement the apples beautifully, creating a wonderful contrast in textures.
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Coconut Flakes: For a tropical twist, add unsweetened shredded coconut to the topping. About 1/2 cup will infuse your crumble with a lovely hint of coconut flavor that transports you to a sunny beach.
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Chocolate Drizzle: Melt some chocolate and drizzle it over the cooled crumble for an indulgent finish. This treat transforms your dessert into a chocolate lover’s dream—who could resist that?
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Cinnamon Swirl: Mix additional cinnamon into the apple filling or crumble to intensify that warm spice flavor. A touch more spice can elevate the comforting essence of your Apple Crumble.
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Savory Option: Replace apples with savory vegetables like zucchini or squash for an inventive, savory crumble. This unexpected spin can serve as a delightful side dish at dinner, surprising your palate.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When preparing your Apple Crumble, be sure to use a mix of tart and sweet apples for the best flavor balance.
- An often overlooked step is to let the apple mixture sit for a few minutes after adding the sugar and lemon juice, which will allow the apples to release some of their juices and enhance the filling.
- For a crunchy topping, make sure your butter is cold and work it into the dry ingredients until you see pea-sized crumbs, as this creates that perfect crumble texture.
- Keep an eye on your oven; if the topping browns too quickly, you can cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning while the apples finish cooking.
Apple Crumble Recipe FAQs
How do I choose apples for my Apple Crumble?
Absolutely! I recommend using a mix of tart and sweet apples, such as Granny Smith and Honeycrisp. Look for firm apples without any dark spots or bruises, as they’ll hold their shape well during baking and provide a nice balance of flavor.
How should I store leftover Apple Crumble?
You can store your cooled Apple Crumble in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. If you keep it covered at room temperature, it will maintain the best texture and flavor for about 3 days. Just reheat it gently in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it!
Can I freeze Apple Crumble?
Yes, you can! After the Apple Crumble has cooled completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. This way, it can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat at 350°F (175°C) for about 15–20 minutes until it’s warmed through and crispy on top.
What if my Apple Crumble topping is too crumbly or too wet?
If your topping turns out too crumbly, it might need a bit more butter or even an extra tablespoon of water or milk to help it bind together better. On the other hand, if it’s too wet, ensure that the butter is cold when you mix it and don’t overmix the crumble. A nice crumbly consistency is key for that perfect texture!
Are there any dietary considerations for this Apple Crumble?
Absolutely! If you’re considering dietary restrictions, you can substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative to make it dairy-free. Just be cautious of cross-contamination if you or your guests have allergies. For a gluten-free option, use certified gluten-free oats and flour. Enjoy this treat worry-free!
Apple Crumble
Ingredients
- 4–5 medium apples peeled and sliced
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar to sweeten apples
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon for flavor
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice to prevent browning
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour to thicken apples
- 1 cup all-purpose flour base of the crumble
- 1 cup rolled oats for chewiness
- 1/2 cup brown sugar packed, for richness
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter cold, cut into cubes
- 1/2 teaspoon salt to enhance flavors
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon for topping
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and flour in a large bowl.
- Pour the apple mixture into the prepared baking dish evenly.
- Mix flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, salt, and cinnamon in a separate bowl.
- Add cold butter cubes to the dry ingredients and mix until crumbly.
- Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the apple filling.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes or until the topping is golden and apples are bubbly.
- Cool the apple crumble for about 10 minutes before serving.
- Serve warm, optionally with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
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