There’s something about the aroma of a freshly baked apple crumble that wraps you in a warm hug. I’m not usually one to follow trends, but last fall, during our annual family gathering, I decided to make a classic apple crumble, and oh my, was it a hit! It’s such a simple yet rewarding dessert to make, and when the entire family goes back for seconds, you know you’ve struck gold.
Now, as much as I love experimenting in the kitchen, I always find myself coming back to this apple crumble recipe. It’s easy to prepare, employs everyday ingredients, and, best of all, doesn’t require any fancy equipment. Trust me, if I can make this while juggling three kids and a dog, so can you!
This apple crumble is perfect for any occasion, especially when the air turns crisp and you’re craving a comforting dessert. I prefer using Granny Smith apples because they lend a lovely tartness that perfectly balances the sweetness of the crumble. Plus, they hold their shape well during baking, which is a win-win.
And here’s a little tip I learned from my mother-in-law: a splash of lemon juice truly elevates this dish. It brings out the apples’ natural flavors, adding a refreshing zing. So, whenever you find yourself with a basket full of apples and the desire to create something delightful, don your apron and give this apple crumble a try. You won’t be disappointed!
How to Make Apple Crumble
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Ingredients:
- 2 ½ pounds of Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, and diced
- ½ cup granulated sugar or brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons of corn starch or all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 cup of all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup of brown sugar, light or dark
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt for topping
- 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Directions:
- Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F. Take an 8 or 9-inch baking dish and give it a spritz with nonstick cooking spray. Set this aside for later.
- For the crumble topping, get yourself a medium bowl. Combine the all-purpose flour, brown sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Once blended, stir in the melted butter with a fork until it becomes crumb-like in texture.
- In a separate large bowl, toss the apple pieces with granulated sugar, lemon juice, cornstarch or flour, and ground cinnamon. Ensure that the apples are well-coated with these ingredients.
- Evenly distribute the apple mixture into your prepared baking dish, creating a uniform layer.
- Spread the crumble topping evenly over the apple layer, making sure it covers all the apples.
- Place the baking dish in the oven and let it bake for about 35 to 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden brown and you can see the filling bubbling.
- Allow the apple crumble to cool for at least 15 minutes before serving. It’s divine with a scoop of ice cream!
Storing Suggestion:
Keep leftover apple crumble in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat portions in the oven for a few minutes before serving to enjoy it fresh and warm.
Cooking Tips:
For a richer taste, consider using a mix of half granulated sugar and half brown sugar in the filling. Adding a sprinkle of nutmeg to the crumble topping can also enhance the dessert’s warmth and depth of flavor.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve this apple crumble warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream. Pair it with a hot cup of cider or tea for a cozy afternoon treat.
Ingredient Substitutions:
If you’re out of Granny Smith apples, Honeycrisp or Fuji apples work wonderfully. Gluten-free flour can easily replace regular flour for a gluten-free alternative, and dairy-free margarine can substitute for butter if needed.
Seasonal Variations:
In the summer, swap apples for pears or blueberries, adjusting sugar based on the fruit’s natural sweetness. In the winter, a bit of ginger mixed into the apples can add a festive touch.
Allergen Information:
This apple crumble contains wheat and dairy. To make it gluten-free, use a gluten-free baking mix. For a dairy-free version, use a plant-based butter substitute to maintain a similar flavor and consistency.
FAQ
Can I use different types of apples?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples are recommended for their tartness, you can use other varieties like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or a mix. Just keep in mind that the sweetness level may change, so adjust the sugar accordingly if needed.
What can I use if I don’t have lemon juice?
If lemon juice is unavailable, you can substitute it with apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar. These will provide the necessary acidity to enhance the apple flavor. Another option is lime juice, which will offer a slightly different but still refreshing twist.
Is it possible to make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the apple filling and the crumble topping ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, assemble the dish and follow the same baking instructions.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make the apple crumble vegan, replace the butter with a plant-based margarine or coconut oil. Ensure you’re using a sugar variety that hasn’t been processed with bone char to keep it fully vegan, and you’ll have a scrumptious vegan dessert!
Can you freeze apple crumble?
Yes, apple crumble can be frozen. Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, or use a freezer-safe container. It will stay good for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake it from frozen at 350°F until warmed through.
What’s the best way to reheat apple crumble?
The best way is to reheat it in the oven at 350°F until it’s warmed through. This method helps to retain the crunchiness of the crumble. You can also use a microwave for individual portions, though the crumb topping may become softer.
Apple Crumble
Ingredients
- 2 ½ pounds Granny Smith apples peeled, cored, and cut into bite-sized pieces
- ½ cup granulated sugar or you can use brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons corn starch or all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup brown sugar (light or dark)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt for topping
- 8 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F. Lightly coat an 8 or 9-inch baking dish with nonstick spray and set it aside.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, brown sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon until well mixed.
- Pour in the melted butter and use a fork to mix until it turns crumbly.
- In a large bowl, mix the apple pieces with granulated sugar, lemon juice, corn starch (or flour), and ground cinnamon until everything is nicely coated.
- Transfer the apple mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it into an even layer.
- Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the apple filling.
- Bake for 35 to 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.
- Allow it to cool for about 15 minutes before serving.
