Name: Apple Crumble Recipe: Warm and Comforting
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: Apple Filling:; 4 large apples (peeled, cored, sliced (5 cups)); 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg; 1 tbsp all-purpose flour; Crumble Topping:; 1 cup rolled oats; 3/4 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed); 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted); Optional: Powdered sugar (vanilla ice cream); Suggested Pairings: Whipped cream (hot tea)

Introduction

Table of Contents

Apple Crumble is a classic, comforting dessert, perfect for family gatherings, cozy evenings, or seasonal celebrations. This warm, flavorful dish, featuring tender spiced apples and a buttery, crunchy oat topping, delivers nostalgic, homestyle flavors in every bite. Presented in a white ceramic baking dish, garnished with a dusting of powdered sugar or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, this Apple Crumble offers a cozy, inviting aesthetic that elevates any table. This recipe provides a traditional version, adaptable for dietary preferences, and ideal for home cooks seeking a crowd-pleasing dessert that brings autumnal warmth to any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Apple Filling:

4 large apples (e.g., Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and sliced (about 5 cups)
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
1 tbsp all-purpose flour

For the Crumble Topping:

1 cup rolled oats
3/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted

Serving:

Optional: Powdered sugar, vanilla ice cream
Suggested Accompaniments: Whipped cream, caramel sauce
Suggested Pairings: Hot tea, coffee
Suggested Aesthetic: Serve in a white ceramic baking dish
Suggested Equipment: 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking dish, mixing bowls, peeler, knife, measuring cups/spoons, spatula

Step-by-Step Process

Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch white ceramic baking dish.
Prepare Apple Filling: In a large mixing bowl, toss sliced apples with granulated sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and flour. Taste and adjust the sweetness with an additional 1 tbsp sugar if apples are tart, ensuring a balanced flavor. Spread evenly in the prepared baking dish.
Make Crumble Topping: In another mixing bowl, combine oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Pour in melted butter and stir until the mixture forms coarse crumbs.
Assemble: Sprinkle crumble topping evenly over the apple filling, covering completely.
Bake: Bake for 35–40 minutes until the topping is golden brown and apples are tender and bubbly. Check doneness by inserting a fork into the apples.
Serve: Let cool 5–10 minutes. Serve warm in the white ceramic baking dish, dusted with powdered sugar or topped with vanilla ice cream. Pair with whipped cream, caramel sauce, hot tea, or coffee.

Tips for Better Apple Crumble

Use a mix of tart (e.g., Granny Smith) and sweet (e.g., Honeycrisp) apples for complex flavor.
Taste the apple filling before baking to balance sweetness and tartness, as apples vary.
Melt butter fully for an even, crunchy topping; avoid overmixing to keep it crumbly.
Use a white ceramic baking dish for a cozy presentation, highlighting the golden topping and vibrant apples.
Make ahead: Prepare filling and topping separately, refrigerate up to 24 hours, assemble, and bake fresh.
Check doneness by ensuring apples are fork-tender and topping is crisp.
Enhance aesthetic: Present in a white ceramic baking dish with powdered sugar or ice cream for a warm, inviting look.
Serve warm for the best texture and flavor.

Variations and Customization

Gluten-Free Apple Crumble: Use gluten-free flour and certified gluten-free oats.
Vegan Apple Crumble: Replace butter with vegan butter or coconut oil; serve with non-dairy ice cream.
Spiced Apple Crumble: Add 1/4 tsp ground ginger or cloves to the filling.
Nutty Apple Crumble: Mix 1/4 cup chopped pecans or almonds into the topping.
Berry Apple Crumble: Add 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries or raspberries to the filling.
Low-Sugar Apple Crumble: Reduce granulated sugar to 2 tbsp and brown sugar to 1/4 cup; use a sugar substitute if desired.
Caramel Apple Crumble: Drizzle 2 tbsp caramel sauce over the apples before adding the topping.
Oat-Free Apple Crumble: Replace oats with an additional 1/4 cup flour and 1/4 cup chopped nuts.

Storage and Serving Tips

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days; they can be reheated in the oven at 350°F for 10–15 minutes or microwaved for 1–2 minutes.
Freeze baked crumble for up to 3 months; wrap tightly in foil, thaw in the fridge overnight, and reheat at 350°F.
Serve warm for the best flavor; avoid keeping at room temperature for over 2 hours.
Use leftovers as a topping for yogurt or oatmeal.
Pair with whipped cream or ice cream to complement the sweet, spiced flavor.
Presented in a white ceramic baking dish with vibrant garnishes for a cozy, inviting charm.

Nutritional Information

Based on 6 servings (1 cup each):

Calories: 350 kcal
Total Fat: 17g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 40mg
Sodium: 150mg
Total Carbohydrates: 48g
Dietary Fiber: 4g
Sugars: 28g
Protein: 3g
Vitamin A: 12% Daily Value
Vitamin C: 10% Daily Value
Calcium: 4% Daily Value
Iron: 6% Daily Value

Note: Values vary by brand. High in sugar; try the low-sugar version. Pair with fruit for balance.

Conclusion

This Apple Crumble recipe offers a warm, comforting dessert, perfect for any occasion, transforming simple ingredients into a homestyle classic. Its straightforward preparation and cozy presentation make it a favorite. The tender apples and crunchy topping delight every bite. It’s sure to be a cherished recipe, loved for its inviting, versatile appeal.