Simple Apple Crumble (Apple Crisp)

If you’re looking for a dessert that wraps you in warmth and nostalgia, let me introduce you to my favorite: Simple Apple Crumble (Apple Crisp). This delightful treat is like a hug in a bowl, combining juicy apples with a perfectly crunchy topping. It’s the kind of dessert that brings everyone together, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings.

What makes this simple apple crumble so special? It’s not just the delicious flavors but also how easy it is to whip up! With minimal prep time and ingredients you likely already have on hand, this recipe is sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dessert comes together in no time, perfect for those nights when you want something sweet without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves apple crumble! Its comforting flavors and textures make it a hit with both kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare it in advance and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve, freeing up your time for other tasks.
• Deliciously Versatile: Feel free to experiment with different fruits or spices based on what you have at home.
• Comforting Flavors: The warm spices and tender apples create a cozy experience that’s hard to resist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Here’s what you’ll need for your Simple Apple Crumble:

For the Apple Filling

• 6 apples
• ½ tsp grated nutmeg or as needed
• ½ tsp cinnamon or as needed
• 2 Tbsp brown sugar
• 1 Tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 Tbsp white sugar
• Juice of half a lemon

For the Crumble Topping

• 1 cup all-purpose flour (substitute for self-raising flour)
• 1 cup porridge oat
• 125 g butter (you can use melted butter or cold softened; I prefer cold butter)
• 1 cup light brown sugar (or as needed)
• ¼ tsp salt (I love to add a pinch to balance the sweetness)

Variations

One of the best parts about this Simple Apple Crumble is its flexibility. Feel free to mix things up based on your preferences!

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch.
• Mix in Berries: Combine apples with fresh blueberries or raspberries for a fruity twist.
• Try Different Spices: Experiment with ginger or cardamom to give your crumble a unique flavor profile.
• Use Alternative Sweeteners: Swap out brown sugar for coconut sugar or maple syrup if you’re looking for a healthier option.

How to Make Simple Apple Crumble (Apple Crisp)

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 180C/375F. This step is vital because it ensures your crumble bakes evenly and becomes perfectly golden brown.

Step 2: Prepare the Apples

Peel, core, and chop the apples into bite-sized pieces. Transfer them into your baking pan and sprinkle with flour, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and half of the lemon juice. Mixing these ingredients helps coat the apples evenly and enhances their natural sweetness.

Step 3: Make the Crumble Topping

In another bowl, combine oats, flour, brown sugar, cold butter, and a pinch of salt. Rub everything together with your fingers until you achieve a breadcrumb-like consistency. It’s okay if there are some chunks—those will add great texture!

Step 4: Assemble Your Dish

Sprinkle the crumble topping generously over the apple mixture in your baking pan. This layer will create that irresistible crunchy texture when baked.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Place your dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 35 to 40 minutes. Keep an eye on it until the topping turns crispy and golden brown while the apple filling bubbles joyfully underneath.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Once baked, remove from the oven and let it stand for a few minutes. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or custard for an extra special touch!

Now you’re ready to savor every bite of this warm and comforting Simple Apple Crumble! Enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making Simple Apple Crumble (Apple Crisp)

Making a delicious apple crumble is all about the little details that can elevate your dessert from good to unforgettable. Here are some tips to help you achieve the perfect crumble every time!

• Choose the right apples: Opt for a mix of tart and sweet apples, such as Granny Smith and Honeycrisp. This balance adds depth to the flavor and keeps the filling interesting.

• Add texture with oats: Incorporating porridge oats into your topping not only gives it a delightful crunch but also adds a wholesome element that makes each bite satisfying.

• Experiment with spices: Don’t be afraid to adjust the spices! Adding a pinch of ginger or cardamom can bring an exciting twist to your apple filling, enhancing its natural flavors.

• Let it rest before serving: Allowing your crumble to sit for a few minutes after baking lets the juices settle. This helps prevent a soggy bottom and improves overall texture.

• Enjoy it warm: Serving your apple crumble slightly warm enhances its comforting nature. It’s perfect for cozy evenings, especially when paired with something cold like ice cream!

How to Serve Simple Apple Crumble (Apple Crisp)

Serving your Simple Apple Crumble beautifully can make it even more enjoyable for you and your guests. Here are some ideas on how to present this classic dessert in style!

Garnishes

• Fresh mint leaves: A sprig of mint adds a pop of color and freshness that contrasts nicely with the warm, rich flavors of the apple crumble.
• Drizzle of honey or maple syrup: A light drizzle over the top can add a hint of sweetness and an attractive shine that makes your dish look even more inviting.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream melts beautifully into warm apple crumble, creating a delightful blend of textures and flavors.
• Custard: This traditional pairing provides a rich, creamy complement to the fruity filling, enhancing the comfort factor of your dessert.
• Whipped coconut cream: A dairy-free alternative that’s light yet fluffy, whipped coconut cream adds a tropical twist that brightens up each bite.
• Chai-spiced tea: Sipping on a warm cup of chai while enjoying your crumble creates a cozy atmosphere, perfectly complementing the spiced flavors in the dessert.

Whether it’s for a special occasion or just an ordinary weekday treat, this Simple Apple Crumble will surely delight everyone at your table! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Simple Apple Crumble is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and store it for later enjoyment. Here’s how you can keep your crumble fresh and tasty:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the apple crumble to cool completely before storing.
• Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Let the crumble cool down completely before freezing.
• Wrap the dish tightly with plastic wrap, then cover with aluminum foil for extra protection.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. For best results, freeze before baking.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen apple crumble in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Preheat your oven to 180C/375F.
• Place the crumble in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning.
• Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can uncover it for the last few minutes if you want a crispier topping.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this lovely recipe.

Can I use other fruits in my Simple Apple Crumble?

Absolutely! While apples are classic, you can mix in berries, pears, or even peaches for a delightful twist on your Simple Apple Crumble.

How do I make my Simple Apple Crumble gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free version of this Simple Apple Crumble, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure your oats are certified gluten-free.

Can I reduce the sugar in the Simple Apple Crumble recipe?

Yes, feel free to adjust the amount of sugar based on your taste preferences. You can also use natural sweeteners like maple syrup or honey as alternatives.

What kind of apples work best for this crumble?

For the best results, choose firm apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji that hold their shape well during baking.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Simple Apple Crumble (Apple Crisp). It’s such a heartwarming dessert that brings comfort and happiness to any table. Whether you’re sharing it with family or enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Happy baking, and may your kitchen fill with wonderful aromas!