Apple Crumble Recipe

Introduction

This easy apple crumble recipe delivers a warm, comforting dessert in just 45 minutes. With a buttery, crisp topping and tender spiced apples, it’s perfect for any occasion. If you enjoy simple baked treats, you might also like the Classic Marble Pound Cake Recipe or the Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake Recipe.

Ingredients

This classic Apple Crumble recipe combines tender, cinnamon-spiced apples with a buttery, crunchy topping that bakes to golden perfection.

• 2.5 pounds Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
• 0.5 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch or all-purpose flour
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 0.75 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	35 minutes
Total Time	50 minutes

Context: This Apple Crumble recipe is about 20% faster than similar recipes, making it perfect for a quick and easy dessert.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare the Apples

Peel, core, and slice 6–8 medium apples into ¼-inch thick slices. Toss with ½ cup granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour until evenly coated.

Use a mix of sweet and tart apples like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp for balanced flavor and texture.

Step 2 — Make the Crumble Topping

In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup all-purpose flour, ¾ cup rolled oats, ⅔ cup brown sugar, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and ¼ teaspoon salt. Cut in ½ cup cold cubed butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Keep the butter cold for a flakier, crispier topping.

Step 3 — Assemble the Apple Crumble

Transfer the apple mixture into a greased 9×9-inch baking dish, spreading evenly. Sprinkle the crumble topping over the apples in an even layer, covering them completely.

Press the topping lightly to help it hold together while baking.

Step 4 — Preheat and Prepare for Baking

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the assembled Apple Crumble on a baking sheet to catch any potential bubbling over during baking.

A baking sheet prevents mess and ensures even heat distribution.

Step 5 — Bake to Perfection

Bake for 40–50 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apple filling is bubbly around the edges.

Check for doneness by inserting a knife into the apples—they should be tender but not mushy.

Step 6 — Cool Before Serving

Remove the Apple Crumble from the oven and let it cool for at least 15–20 minutes before serving. This allows the filling to set and prevents burns.

Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for the best experience.

Nutritional Information

Calories	320
Protein	3g
Carbohydrates	52g
Fat	12g
Fiber	4g
Sodium	85mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size. This Apple Crumble provides a good source of vitamin C and dietary fiber.

Healthier Alternatives

• Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream — Adds protein while keeping a creamy texture with a pleasant tang.
• Almond flour instead of all-purpose flour — Creates a gluten-free, lower-carb crumble topping with a nutty flavor.
• Coconut oil instead of butter — A dairy-free alternative that gives the topping a subtle tropical note.
• Stevia or monk fruit instead of refined sugar — Sweetens your Apple Crumble without spiking blood sugar levels.
• Oats and nuts instead of a flour-based topping — Boosts fiber and healthy fats for a more satisfying crunch.
• Unsweetened applesauce to reduce added sugar — Naturally sweetens the apple filling while keeping moisture.
• Spices like cinnamon and nutmeg instead of extra salt — Enhances flavor depth for a low-sodium Apple Crumble.
• Chia seeds mixed into the filling — Adds omega-3s and helps thicken the apple juices naturally.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve warm Apple Crumble with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic hot-and-cold contrast.
• Pair your Apple Crumble with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or warm custard for extra richness.
• Enjoy this comforting dessert after a Sunday roast or as the highlight of a cozy autumn gathering.
• For an elegant presentation, serve individual portions in ramekins and garnish with a cinnamon stick.
• Transform your Apple Crumble into a brunch treat by serving it alongside a cup of strong coffee or tea.
• Add a festive touch by serving the crumble with a drizzle of caramel sauce during the holidays.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet night in, these serving ideas will make your homemade Apple Crumble even more memorable.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using only one apple variety. Fix: Combine tart (Granny Smith) and sweet (Honeycrisp) apples for balanced flavor and better texture.
• Mistake: Skipping the lemon juice. Fix: Toss apple slices with lemon juice to prevent browning and add subtle brightness to your Apple Crumble.
• Mistake: Cutting butter into flour too thoroughly. Fix: Leave pea-sized butter chunks in your crumble topping for those coveted crispy bits.
• Mistake: Underseasoning the apple filling. Fix: Don’t forget cinnamon and a pinch of salt to enhance the natural sweetness of the apples.
• Mistake: Overmixing the crumble topping. Fix: Mix with your fingers just until combined—overworking creates a dense, cookie-like layer.
• Mistake: Baking with room temperature butter. Fix: Use cold butter straight from the refrigerator for a flakier, more textured crumble topping.
• Mistake: Not preheating your baking dish. Fix: Place your empty baking dish in the oven while preheating for a faster, crisper bottom crust.
• Mistake: Skipping the cornstarch. Fix: Add cornstarch to your apple mixture to thicken juices and prevent a soupy Apple Crumble.
• Mistake: Cutting into the crumble immediately. Fix: Let it rest 15-20 minutes after baking so the filling sets perfectly.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Cool your Apple Crumble completely, then store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Wrap the Apple Crumble tightly or store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Warm in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), about 15-20 minutes.

Always ensure your Apple Crumble is properly cooled before storing to maintain its texture and prevent spoilage.

Conclusion

This easy Apple Crumble is the perfect cozy dessert. If you love this recipe, try our Banana Bread Cake Recipe With Cream Cheese Frosting or Cranberry Orange Cake Recipe next! Leave a comment with your results and subscribe for more delicious recipes.

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FAQs

Can I make this Apple Crumble ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this Apple Crumble ahead of time. Assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time since it will be cold from the fridge.

What are the best apples to use for Apple Crumble?

For the best Apple Crumble, use firm, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. These varieties hold their shape well during baking and provide a nice contrast to the sweet crumble topping. Avoid very soft apples, as they can become mushy.

Can I freeze Apple Crumble?

Yes, you can freeze Apple Crumble either before or after baking. For best results, freeze it unbaked; wrap it well and bake from frozen, adding extra time. A baked Apple Crumble also freezes well—just thaw and reheat in the oven until warm.