Apple Crumble is a timeless dessert that’s warm, comforting, and packed with delicious flavors. The combination of sweet, tender apples, a crunchy, buttery crumble topping, and a hint of cinnamon makes this dessert perfect for cozy nights or special occasions. It’s easy to make and requires just a few simple ingredients, but the result is nothing short of spectacular. Whether you’re enjoying it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or as it is, this apple crumble is bound to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Apple Crumble is the ultimate comfort dessert, offering the perfect balance between sweet, tart apples and a rich, buttery topping. It’s a simple yet irresistible treat that fills your home with the warm scents of cinnamon and baked apples. The crumble topping adds a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft apples underneath. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just getting started, this recipe is easy to follow and can be customized to your taste. Plus, it’s the perfect dessert for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to festive holiday meals.

The Best Apple Crumble

Ingredients

For the apple filling:

6-7 medium-sized apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are great choices)
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thicker filling)

For the crumble topping:

3/4 cup rolled oats
3/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or a similar-sized oven-safe dish with butter or non-stick spray.
Prepare the apple filling: Peel, core, and slice the apples into thin wedges or chunks. In a large mixing bowl, toss the apples with sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, and nutmeg. If you prefer a thicker filling, add the cornstarch and mix well. Spread the apple mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
Make the crumble topping: In a medium bowl, combine the oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Assemble the crumble: Evenly sprinkle the crumble topping over the apple mixture, covering it as evenly as possible.
Bake: Bake the apple crumble in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown and crisp. You can check the apples by inserting a fork or knife into them—they should be soft but not mushy.
Cool and serve: Let the apple crumble cool for about 10 minutes before serving. It’s delicious on its own or topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6-8
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 40-45 minutes
Total time: 55-60 minutes

Variations

Fruit mix: Add other fruits like pears, cranberries, or blueberries to the apple filling for a more complex flavor.
Nuts in the topping: Add chopped nuts like walnuts, pecans, or almonds to the crumble topping for added crunch and flavor.
Spices: Experiment with other spices like ginger, allspice, or cloves for a different flavor profile.
Vegan version: Use dairy-free butter and substitute the granulated sugar with coconut sugar or maple syrup for a vegan-friendly version.

Storage/reheating

Storage: Store leftover apple crumble in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: This dessert freezes well. Let it cool completely, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
Reheating: Reheat individual servings in the microwave for about 30-40 seconds, or warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use different apples for this recipe?

Yes, you can use a variety of apples. Granny Smith apples are tart and hold their shape well when baked, but you can also use sweeter apples like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala. A mix of tart and sweet apples works best for a balanced flavor.

2. Do I need to peel the apples?

Peeling the apples is recommended, as it ensures the filling has a smooth texture. However, if you prefer a more rustic feel or extra fiber, you can leave the skins on.

3. Can I use a different sweetener instead of granulated sugar?

Yes, you can substitute granulated sugar with coconut sugar, honey, or maple syrup. Just keep in mind that the consistency of the filling might change slightly, depending on the sweetener used.

4. Can I make this apple crumble ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the crumble topping and apple filling ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, simply assemble and bake the crumble as directed.

5. Can I make the topping without oats?

Yes, if you prefer a traditional crumble topping, you can omit the oats and just use a combination of flour, butter, sugar, and spices. This will give you a finer, crunchier topping.

6. Can I use a larger baking dish?

If you want to make a larger batch, you can use a 9×13-inch baking dish. Just increase the ingredients proportionally and keep an eye on the baking time—it might take a little longer.

7. Can I serve this with whipped cream instead of ice cream?

Yes, whipped cream works wonderfully as a topping, especially if you prefer a lighter option. You can even add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra touch.

8. How can I make the topping more buttery?

For a richer, buttery topping, you can increase the amount of butter in the crumble mixture. Try using up to 3/4 cup of butter for an even more indulgent crumble.

9. Can I make this apple crumble gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour. Be sure to use certified gluten-free oats if needed.

10. Can I use frozen apples?

While fresh apples give the best results, you can use frozen apples if fresh ones aren’t available. Be sure to thaw them and drain any excess liquid before adding them to the dish.

Conclusion

The Best Apple Crumble is a simple yet indulgent dessert that combines the comforting flavors of baked apples, cinnamon, and a buttery, crisp topping. This recipe is versatile, easy to make, and can be enjoyed with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for the ultimate treat. Whether you’re baking it for a family gathering, a holiday meal, or a cozy night in, this apple crumble is sure to impress with its deliciously sweet and warm flavors.