How to Make Apple Cinnamon Crumble
Apple Cinnamon Crumble is the ultimate fall dessert, combining juicy, spiced apples with a buttery, golden oat topping. This easy, beginner-friendly recipe fills your kitchen with autumn’s warmth and pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Follow this detailed guide to bake a crowd-pleasing crumble, with tips to customize and perfect your dessert.
- 5 medium apples (mix of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp, about
- 2 lbs), peeled, cored, and sliced ¼-inch thick
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (from half a lemon)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (to thicken juices)
- Crumble Topping
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup old-fashioned rolled oats (not instant)
- ½ cup packed light brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into ½-inch cubes
- Pinch of kosher salt
Detailed Instructions
i. Prepare the Apples: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine apple slices, granulated sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and flour. Toss gently to coat evenly, ensuring the flour dissolves to thicken the juices during baking. Transfer to an 8x8-inch (or 2-quart) baking dish, spreading apples into an even layer.
ii. Make the Crumble Topping: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Add cold butter cubes. Using your fingers, a pastry cutter, or two forks, work the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized butter pieces. The cold butter ensures a crisp, not greasy, topping.
iii. Assemble the Crumble: Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the apples, covering them completely. Gently press down to ensure it adheres but don’t compact it tightly, as this allows for a crunchy texture.
iv. Bake the Crumble: Place the dish on a baking sheet to catch any drips. Bake for 35-40 minutes, until the apples are bubbling and the topping is golden brown and crisp. If the topping browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil after 25 minutes.
v. Cool and Serve: Let the crumble cool for 10-15 minutes to set, making it easier to scoop. Serve warm in bowls, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for creamy contrast.
Pro Tips for a Perfect Crumble
1. Mix Apple Varieties: Granny Smith adds tartness, while Honeycrisp brings sweetness, creating a balanced filling.
2. Keep Butter Cold: Chill butter before cutting to maintain a flaky, crisp topping.
3. Customize the Topping: Add ¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch, or swap oats for almond flour for a gluten-free version.
4. Make Ahead: Prepare the topping up to 2 days in advance and store in the fridge. Assemble and bake when ready.
5. Check Doneness: The apples should be soft when pierced with a fork, and the juices should bubble thickly.
2. Keep Butter Cold: Chill butter before cutting to maintain a flaky, crisp topping.
3. Customize the Topping: Add ¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch, or swap oats for almond flour for a gluten-free version.
4. Make Ahead: Prepare the topping up to 2 days in advance and store in the fridge. Assemble and bake when ready.
5. Check Doneness: The apples should be soft when pierced with a fork, and the juices should bubble thickly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with vanilla ice cream or freshly whipped cream for a classic pairing. For extra indulgence, drizzle with homemade or store-bought caramel sauce. Pair with a hot cup of coffee, chai tea, or mulled cider to enhance the fall vibes. This crumble is perfect for potlucks or holiday desserts, as it travels well and reheats easily at 300°F for 15 minutes.Why This Recipe?
This crumble showcases fall’s iconic apples, which are rich in fiber and antioxidants. It’s quick to prepare, requiring no fancy equipment, and teaches you how to balance flavors and textures in baking. The recipe is adaptable—try pears or berries for variety—and its simplicity makes it a go-to for busy autumn days or last-minute gatherings.Prep (Apple Cinnamon Crumble): 15 minutes
Cook (Apple Cinnamon Crumble): 40 minutes
Total Time (Apple Cinnamon Crumble): 55 minutes