Simple Apple Crumble (Apple Crisp)

If you’re looking for a dessert that wraps you in warmth and comfort, the Simple Apple Crumble (Apple Crisp) is just the thing! This delightful treat combines tender apples with a crunchy topping, making it a beloved favorite in my kitchen. I love how versatile it is—perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick, yet special enough to impress family during gatherings. Plus, the aroma of cinnamon and baked apples wafting through your home is simply irresistible!

There’s something so nostalgic about this recipe. It reminds me of cozy evenings spent sharing stories with loved ones. Whether it’s a simple family dinner or a festive occasion, this crumble brings smiles all around.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in no time! With just a few simple steps, you can have a homemade dessert ready to enjoy.
• Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will adore this sweet treat! It’s an excellent way to get everyone around the table.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the apple filling earlier in the day, making it easy to pop in the oven before serving.
• Deliciously Wholesome: Packed with fresh apples and comforting spices, this crumble is both tasty and satisfying.
• Customizable Toppings: Feel free to experiment with different nuts or spices for extra flavor!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering ingredients for this Simple Apple Crumble (Apple Crisp) is a breeze because they are all simple and wholesome. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Apple Filling

• 6 apples
• ½ tsp grated nutmeg or as needed
• ½ tsp cinnamon or as needed
• 2 Tbsp brown sugar
• 1 Tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 Tbsp white sugar
• Juice of half a lemon

For the Crumble Topping

• 1 cup all-purpose flour (substitute for self-raising flour)
• 1 cup porridge oat
• 125 g butter (you can use melted butter or cold softened; I prefer cold butter)
• 1 cup light brown sugar (or as needed)
• ¼ tsp salt (I love to add a pinch to balance the sweetness)

Variations

This Simple Apple Crumble (Apple Crisp) recipe is wonderfully flexible and allows for some fun variations. Feel free to get creative with these ideas:

• Add Some Berries: Mix in some fresh or frozen berries like blueberries or raspberries for an extra burst of flavor.
• Incorporate Nuts: Toss in chopped walnuts or almonds into the crumble topping for added crunch.
• Switch Up the Spices: Experiment with other spices like ginger or cardamom for a unique twist on flavor.
• Use Different Fruits: Try swapping apples for pears or peaches during their seasons—they’re equally delicious!

How to Make Simple Apple Crumble (Apple Crisp)

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first—let’s get that oven preheating! Set it at 180C/375F while we prepare our baking dish. Preheating ensures even cooking and helps achieve that perfect golden topping.

Step 2: Prepare the Apples

Peel, core, and chop your apples into bite-sized pieces. Transfer them into your baking pan. Now, sprinkle in the flour, sugars, cinnamon, nutmeg, and half of the lemon juice. Mixing these ingredients together allows each apple piece to soak up those delicious flavors!

Step 3: Make the Crumble Topping

In another bowl, combine oats, flour, brown sugar, cold butter, and a pinch of salt. Using your fingers, rub everything together until it resembles breadcrumbs. Don’t worry if you have some larger chunks—they add character to your crumble!

Step 4: Assemble Your Dish

Sprinkle that beautiful crumble topping evenly over your prepared apple mixture. This layer will turn wonderfully crispy while baking.

Step 5: Bake It Up!

Place your dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 35 to 40 minutes. Keep an eye on it until you see that lovely golden color on top and bubbly apples peeking through.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once baked, let it stand for a few minutes before serving. Pair it with vanilla ice cream or custard for an indulgent finish. There’s nothing quite like enjoying this warm dessert with friends or family—it truly makes any occasion special!

Pro Tips for Making Simple Apple Crumble (Apple Crisp)

Creating the perfect simple apple crumble is all about balancing flavors and textures. Here are some tips to help you master this comforting dessert!

• Choose the right apples: Opt for a mix of tart and sweet apples, such as Granny Smith and Honeycrisp. This combination enhances the flavor profile and creates a delightful contrast in sweetness.

• Add a splash of lemon juice: Using lemon juice not only prevents the apples from browning but also brightens the overall flavor of the dish. Plus, it adds a refreshing zing that complements the sweetness perfectly.

• Don’t skip the spices: Nutmeg and cinnamon are essential for that warm, cozy flavor typical of apple desserts. Feel free to adjust their amounts based on your taste preferences for a personalized touch.

• Experiment with toppings: While oats are traditional, consider adding chopped nuts or seeds to your crumble topping. This will introduce additional crunch and flavor that can make your dessert even more satisfying.

• Let it rest before serving: Allowing your apple crumble to sit for a few minutes after baking helps thicken the filling slightly, making it easier to serve while still warm. Plus, it gives you just enough time to whip up some delicious accompaniments!

How to Serve Simple Apple Crumble (Apple Crisp)

Serving your simple apple crumble is just as important as making it! A well-presented dish can elevate the entire experience. Here are some ideas on how to present this delightful dessert.

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: A sprinkle of toasted walnuts or pecans on top provides an extra layer of crunch and a nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with warm apples.

• Fresh mint leaves: A few fresh mint leaves can add a vibrant splash of color and a refreshing herbal note, enhancing both aesthetics and taste.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: The classic pairing! Creamy vanilla ice cream melts into the warm crumble, creating an irresistible combination that everyone loves.

• Custard sauce: A warm custard poured over your apple crumble adds richness and depth, making each bite feel indulgent and luxurious.

• Whipped coconut cream: For a lighter dairy-free option, whipped coconut cream offers a light sweetness and fluffy texture, perfect for balancing the heartiness of the crumble.

• Caramel sauce: Drizzling homemade or store-bought caramel sauce over the top brings an extra layer of sweetness and decadence that will have everyone reaching for seconds!

By following these serving suggestions, you’ll create not just a dessert but a memorable experience for you and your loved ones. Enjoy every comforting bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Simple Apple Crumble is perfect for meal prep! You can whip it up ahead of time and enjoy the deliciousness throughout the week. Here’s how to store and reheat it for maximum enjoyment.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the crumble to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Prepare the crumble, but do not bake it.
• Wrap the assembled dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Label with the date!
• When ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 180C/375F.
• If refrigerated, bake for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
• For frozen crumbles, bake directly from frozen for about 50 minutes or until bubbly and golden.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe!

Can I make this Simple Apple Crumble ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

What kind of apples are best for Simple Apple Crumble (Apple Crisp)?

For a balanced flavor, use a mix of tart apples like Granny Smith and sweeter varieties such as Fuji or Honeycrisp. This combination adds depth to your crumble.

Can I substitute ingredients in this Simple Apple Crumble recipe?

Yes! You can use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option, and feel free to adjust sugars according to your taste. Just keep an eye on consistency when making substitutions!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this simple yet delightful apple crumble! It’s truly one of those recipes that brings comfort and joy, especially on cozy evenings. Whether you serve it warm with ice cream or custard, it’s sure to be a hit. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different apples or toppings—make it your own! Happy baking!