This Easy Apple Crumble is a delightful dessert that combines tender, cinnamon-spiced apples with a rich, buttery crumble topping. It’s the perfect choice for gatherings, cozy evenings at home, or any occasion that calls for a sweet treat. Enjoy it warm from the oven, ideally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream melting into the golden crust.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, this recipe fits perfectly into a busy schedule.
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of spiced apples and crunchy topping creates a delicious contrast that everyone will love.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it warm as a dessert or cold as a sweet breakfast option—it’s delightful any time of day.
- Perfect for Gatherings: This dish serves nine, making it an excellent option for family dinners or potluck parties.
- Customizable Ingredients: Easily adapt the recipe by using different types of apples or adding nuts and oats to the crumble.
Tools and Preparation
Before you dive into making your easy apple crumble, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth cooking process. Having everything ready will make preparation easier and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spoon for mixing
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking dish: Ensures even cooking and helps achieve that perfect golden crust.
- Mixing bowls: Useful for combining ingredients without mess.
- Knife: Essential for slicing apples into uniform pieces to ensure even baking.
Ingredients
This easy apple crumble is filled with warm, cinnamon apples and a golden, buttery brown sugar crumble topping. A cozy fall treat that’s even better with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
For the Filling
- 6 apples, peeled and sliced 1/4-inch thick chunks (about 550-600 grams cut)
- 1 lemon, juiced (about 4 teaspoons)
- 1/4 cup (50 grams) granulated sugar, or brown sugar
- 1 Tablespoon (8 grams) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon apple pie spice, can also use cinnamon
- 1/2-1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, use full teaspoon for extra spice flavor
For the Crumble Topping
- 3/4 cup (97 grams) all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup (160 grams) light brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 6 Tablespoons (84 grams) unsalted butter, slightly melted
How to Make Easy Apple Crumble
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Position the oven rack in the center so your crumble bakes evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Apples
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced apples with lemon juice, granulated sugar, flour, apple pie spice, and ground cinnamon.
- Toss gently until all apple slices are coated evenly.
- Transfer the apple mixture to your baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Step 3: Make the Crumble Topping
- In another bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, light brown sugar, and ground cinnamon.
- Add in the slightly melted butter.
- Use your fingers or a fork to combine until you get crumbly bits.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
- Sprinkle the crumble topping over the apple mixture in an even layer.
- Bake in your preheated oven for about 45 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Remove from oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
Enjoy this easy apple crumble as a comforting dessert that everyone will adore!
How to Serve Easy Apple Crumble
Serving your easy apple crumble is just as delightful as making it. This warm dessert can be enjoyed in various ways, enhancing its flavor and appeal.
With Vanilla Ice Cream
- A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a delightful contrast to the warm apple filling and crumbly topping.
Drizzled with Caramel Sauce
- A drizzle of rich caramel sauce elevates the sweet flavors, creating a decadent treat for special occasions.
Topped with Whipped Cream
- Light and airy whipped cream complements the crumble, adding a smooth texture that balances the dish perfectly.
Served with Greek Yogurt
- For a healthier option, pair your crumble with tangy Greek yogurt. It adds creaminess while cutting through the sweetness.
Alongside Fresh Fruit
- Fresh fruit like berries or sliced bananas can provide a refreshing contrast, making each bite interesting and vibrant.
With a Sprinkle of Nuts
- Add toasted nuts such as walnuts or pecans on top for an extra crunch. They enhance both flavor and texture in every spoonful.
How to Perfect Easy Apple Crumble
To make your easy apple crumble even better, consider these helpful tips.
Use a mix of apples: Combining tart and sweet apples creates depth in flavor, resulting in a more complex taste.
Add oats to the crumble: Including rolled oats gives the topping additional texture and heartiness.
Let it cool slightly before serving: Allowing your crumble to rest for about 10 minutes enhances the flavors and makes it easier to serve.
Experiment with spices: Don’t hesitate to try different spices like nutmeg or ginger for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
Cover while baking: If the topping browns too quickly, loosely cover with foil during baking to prevent burning while ensuring everything cooks evenly.
Store properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently for optimal taste when serving again.
Best Side Dishes for Easy Apple Crumble
Pairing side dishes with your easy apple crumble can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some excellent options:
Vanilla Ice Cream: The classic choice that melts beautifully over warm crumble, adding creaminess and richness.
Custard Sauce: A warm custard offers a silky texture that complements the crunchy topping of the crumble wonderfully.
Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses provides contrast; consider sharp cheddar or creamy brie for a savory touch.
Chai Tea: The warming spices in chai tea echo those in your apple crumble, creating a cozy pairing perfect for chilly days.
Coffee: A robust cup of coffee pairs well, balancing sweetness with its rich bitterness.
Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad adds freshness and brightness, making it an excellent counterpoint to the richness of the dessert.
Pumpkin Soup: For something savory, pumpkin soup provides warmth and complements fall flavors nicely.
Chocolate Fondue: Indulge by offering chocolate fondue as an interactive treat where guests can dip fresh fruits or leftover crumble pieces.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making an easy apple crumble can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes that can affect your dessert. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.
- Using the wrong apples: Not all apples are ideal for baking. Choose varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best flavor and texture.
- Skipping the lemon juice: Lemon juice brightens the flavors of the apples. Neglecting this step can make your crumble taste flat.
- Overmixing the crumble topping: Mix just until combined to keep it crumbly and light. Overmixing can lead to a dense topping.
- Not preheating the oven: Always preheat your oven before baking. This ensures even cooking and a nicely browned top.
- Ignoring baking time: Keep an eye on your crumble to prevent burning. Baking times may vary based on your oven.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Let it cool completely before placing it in the fridge.
Freezing Easy Apple Crumble
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before freezing.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Easy Apple Crumble
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 15-20 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat individual portions on high for 30-60 seconds.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Easy Apple Crumble?
Easy apple crumble is a classic dessert made with baked apples topped with a buttery crumble mixture, perfect for fall.
Can I use other fruits in my crumble?
Yes! You can mix other fruits like berries or pears with apples for a delightful twist on this easy apple crumble recipe.
How do I make my crumble topping crunchy?
Ensure you use cold butter and don’t overmix. This helps create a nice, crunchy texture when baked.
Can I make Easy Apple Crumble ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare and assemble it ahead of time, then bake when you’re ready to serve.
What should I serve with Easy Apple Crumble?
Pair it with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an indulgent treat that complements the warm flavors of the apple filling.
Final Thoughts
This easy apple crumble is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with different fruits or spices to suit your taste. It’s a cozy dessert that brings warmth and joy, making it perfect for any occasion. Give it a try, and enjoy every comforting bite!
Easy Apple Crumble
Easy Apple Crumble is a heartwarming dessert that features tender, cinnamon-infused apples topped with a rich, buttery crumble. This cozy treat is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a family gathering or enjoying a quiet night in. Serve it warm from the oven with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an irresistible experience that will delight your taste buds.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves 9
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 6 apples (peeled and sliced)
- 1 lemon (juiced)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon apple pie spice
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour (for topping)
- 3/4 cup light brown sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix sliced apples with lemon juice, sugar, flour, apple pie spice, and cinnamon. Toss to coat and transfer to a baking dish.
- For the crumble topping, combine flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon in another bowl. Mix in melted butter until crumbly.
- Sprinkle the topping over the apples and bake for about 45 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/9 of recipe (approximately 161g)
- Calories: 242
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 42mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 16mg
