Every year, as autumn rolls in, I find myself eagerly awaiting the family gatherings that have become a cherished tradition in our household. There’s something magical about the crisp air and the vibrant colors of fall that brings everyone together. It’s during these gatherings that I whip up a dish that’s become a family favorite—Cranberry Apple Crumble. This dessert holds a special place in my heart, not only because of its delightful taste but also because of the warmth and joy it brings to our table.
I remember the first time I made this crumble for a family get-together. The sun was setting early, casting a golden glow through the kitchen windows, and the aroma of baking apples and cinnamon filled the air. It was a hit from the first bite. The tart cranberries combined with the sweet apples created a perfect symphony of flavors that had everyone coming back for seconds. It’s not just the taste, but the memories associated with it—laughter shared over the dinner table, stories of days gone by, and the sense of togetherness that makes this recipe so special.
What I love most about this Cranberry Apple Crumble is its simplicity. It’s easy enough for a weeknight dessert yet impressive enough to serve at a festive gathering. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a dish that’s sure to impress. Plus, the combination of juicy cranberries and apples with a crunchy oat topping is irresistible. My kids love helping me in the kitchen, and this recipe is perfect for little hands eager to pitch in.
So, whether you’re looking to share a delicious dessert with loved ones or just want to indulge in a cozy treat, this Cranberry Apple Crumble is sure to delight. Let’s dive into the recipe, and you’ll see just how easy it is to bring a touch of autumn magic to your table.
How to Make Cranberry Apple Crumble
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Ingredients:
- 3 cups sweet apples, peeled and diced into small chunks
- 2 cups fresh cranberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Topping
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 6 tablespoons melted butter
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Lightly coat an 11×7-inch baking dish with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
- In a large bowl, mix together the diced apples, fresh cranberries, granulated sugar, flour, salt, and cinnamon until well combined. Transfer this mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- In a separate bowl, combine the rolled oats, flour, brown sugar, salt, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture becomes crumbly, then sprinkle it evenly over the fruit mixture in the baking dish.
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes. The crumble is ready when the fruits are tender and their juices are bubbling around the edges.
- For best results, serve the crumble warm, perhaps with a scoop of ice cream on top. Enjoy the comforting flavors of fall!
No Cranberries? Try These Alternatives
If fresh cranberries aren’t available, you can easily swap them out for frozen cranberries or dried cranberries. If using dried cranberries, soak them in warm water for about 10 minutes to rehydrate before adding them to the mixture. You could also use raspberries or blueberries for a different fruity twist.
The Best Way to Store Cranberry Apple Crumble Leftover
To store any leftover crumble, cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or transfer the contents to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For a longer storage period, you can freeze the crumble for up to 2 months. Make sure to allow the dish to cool completely before freezing. To reheat, bake in a 350°F oven until warmed through.
Perfect Pairings for Cranberry Apple Crumble
This crumble pairs wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a more indulgent touch, you might try a drizzle of caramel sauce. A warm mug of apple cider or a chai latte also complements the flavors beautifully, making it a cozy treat for any autumn occasion.
Secrets to Perfecting Cranberry Apple Crumble
For a flawless crumble, make sure the apples are evenly diced to ensure uniform cooking. Use a variety of sweet apples for a more complex flavor. If you like a gooier filling, add a bit more flour to the fruit mixture. When making the topping, ensure that the butter is melted but not too hot, as this helps achieve the perfect crumbly texture.
Seasonal Twists for Cranberry Apple Crumble
During summer, switch out the cranberries for fresh peaches or strawberries for a lighter version. In the spring, try adding rhubarb for an extra tangy kick. For a winter version, include a pinch of nutmeg or cloves to enhance the warming spices, making it a perfect holiday treat.
FAQs:
Can I use frozen apples instead of fresh ones?
Yes, you can use frozen apples, just ensure they’re thawed and drained before using. This helps prevent excess moisture in the crumble, which might make it soggy. Frozen apples work well, but fresh apples tend to offer a slightly better texture and flavor.
Is it possible to make this crumble gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the oats are certified gluten-free as well. The results should be just as delicious without altering the texture significantly.
What type of apples are best for this recipe?
A combination of sweet and tart apples, such as Granny Smith and Honeycrisp, works wonderfully. The tartness of Granny Smith apples balances the sweetness of the Honeycrisp, creating a perfect harmony of flavors in the crumble.
How can I make the crumble topping crunchier?
For an extra crunchy topping, you can include a handful of chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans. Toasting the oats slightly before mixing them can also add an additional layer of crunch and depth of flavor to the topping.
Can I prepare this crumble in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the crumble ahead of time. Assemble it up to a day in advance, cover tightly, and store in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and allow it to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before placing it in the oven.
What can I do if my crumble is too dry?
If you find the crumble too dry, you can add a bit more melted butter to the topping or a splash of apple juice to the fruit mixture before baking. This should help moisten the dish without overpowering the other flavors.
Cranberry Apple Crumble
Equipment
- 11x7 inch baking dish
Ingredients
Fruit Filling:
- 3 cups sweet apples peeled and diced into small chunks
- 2 cups fresh cranberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Topping:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 6 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and lightly grease an 11x7 inch baking dish.
For Fruit Filling:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the diced apples with cranberries, sugar, flour, salt, and cinnamon. Transfer this mixture to the prepared baking dish.
For Topping:
- In another bowl, mix together the oats, flour, brown sugar, salt, and melted butter until you achieve a crumbly texture. Evenly distribute this topping over the fruit mixture.
- Place the dish in the oven and bake for approximately 45 minutes, until the fruit is tender and bubbly.
- Serve warm, and enhance with a scoop of ice cream if desired.
