Introduction
What if we told you the coziest fall dessert could be made in under an hour — using ingredients already in your pantry? That’s the magic of apple crumble: spiced, tender apples topped with a golden, buttery, crisp topping.
Whether it’s your grandma’s recipe or your new weeknight favorite, this comforting classic never disappoints.
Bonus: Ready in 55 minutes. Apple Crumble Recipe No dough, no fuss. Just mix, bake, and savor!
Table of Contents
What Is Apple Crumble Recipe?
Apple crumble is a humble hero of desserts — no crust, no rolling, no fancy tools. Born in Britain during WWII rationing, it uses simple pantry staples to deliver sweet, spiced comfort with every bite.
Crumble vs. Crisp vs. Cobbler
- Crumble: Buttery flour-sugar-butter topping (sometimes oats).
- Crisp: Usually has oats and sometimes nuts.
- Cobbler: Features a biscuit or cake-like topping.
Why You’ll Love Apple Crumble Recipe
- Effortless: Chop, mix, bake — done.
- Customizable: Use apples, pears, berries — your call.
- Comfort Classic: Perfect with ice cream, whipped cream, or even sharp cheddar (try it!).
Ingredients for Apple Crumble Recipe
6 medium apples (Granny Smith + Honeycrisp = magic!)
2 tbsp lemon juice
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp nutmeg
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup rolled oats (optional)
1/2 cup cold butter, cubed
Pinch of salt
Step-by-Step Instructions for Apple Crumble Recipe
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a medium baking dish.
Mix the apples: In a large bowl, mix the apple slices with lemon juice, brown sugar, and warm spices. Transfer the coated apples to your greased baking dish, arranging them in an even layer.
Make the crumble: In a separate mixing bowl, whisk the flour with oats (if using) and a small pinch of salt to combine. Add cold cubes of butter and use your fingertips to work it into the mixture until you get a crumbly texture with small clumps.
Assemble and bake: Sprinkle topping over apples. Don’t press!
Bake 30–35 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Cool and serve: Let cool for 10 minutes. Serve warm with ice cream or whipped cream.
What to Serve With Apple Crumble Recipe
Vanilla bean ice cream
Whipped cream
Caramel drizzle
Sliced sharp cheddar
Mulled cider or hot chai
Expert Tips
- Mix apple varieties for depth of flavor
- Cold butter = perfect crumb texture
- Don’t overmix topping — chunks = crunch!
- Add chopped walnuts or pecans for texture
- Always bake uncovered for crispy topping
Storage & Reheating
- Fridge: Up to 4 days (airtight container)
- Freezer: Assemble and freeze raw, or freeze baked
- Reheat: 350°F oven for 15–20 mins or microwave individual portions
FAQs
What is the secret to a good crumble?
The secret lies in cold butter and the right texture — aim for a sandy, chunky topping that bakes up golden and crisp.
How to make the perfect apple crumble?
Use tart-sweet apples, fresh lemon juice, and cold butter for the crumble. Bake until the topping turns golden brown and the fruit juices start bubbling at the edges — about 30 to 35 minutes.
Is there a difference between apple crisp and apple crumble?
Yes — a crisp often includes oats and sometimes nuts in the topping, while a crumble may skip the oats for a finer, sandier topping.
Do you cook apples before putting them in a crumble?
Nope! Raw apples soften perfectly while baking — just slice them evenly and toss with sugar and spice.
What are the three ingredients in crumble?
The classic trio: flour, butter, and sugar. You can add oats or nuts for variety.
Is it better to crumble with cold or melted butter?
Using cold butter is key — it helps form those rich, golden clusters that stay crisp and melt in your mouth. Melted butter will give you a soggy topping.
Why add lemon juice to apple crumble?
It prevents the apples from browning and adds a pop of brightness to balance the sweetness.
