Baked Apple Crumble

Nothing says comfort food quite like a warm baked apple crumble fresh from the oven. This classic dessert combines sweet, tender apples with a crumbly topping, making it the perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you savor it on a chilly fall evening or serve it at a family gathering, baked apple crumble doesn’t just please the palate; it warms the heart.

What makes this recipe special is its simplicity and the way it highlights the natural flavors of the apples. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a dish that feels both homemade and indulgent. Let’s embark on a culinary adventure with this delightful baked apple crumble!

Why Make This Recipe

Unique Flavor Combination: The tartness of the apples perfectly balances the sweetness of the crumble, offering a comforting dessert that appeals to everyone.
An American Classic: Baked apple crumble has a rich heritage in American cuisine, celebrated during fall festivals and holiday dinners alike.
Perfect Texture: Enjoy the contrast of soft baked apples with a crunchy topping, creating a delightful mouthfeel.
Versatile Occasions: Best served warm, this recipe shines during the fall but is delightful any time of year, especially at family gatherings or casual get-togethers.
Quick and Easy: This recipe is straightforward and requires minimal prep time, making it accessible for bakers of all levels.

How to Make Baked Apple Crumble

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a bowl, combine the sliced apples and lemon juice, then transfer them to a greased baking dish.
In another bowl, mix the brown sugar, flour, oats, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
Stir in the melted butter until the mixture becomes crumbly.
Sprinkle the crumbly mixture evenly over the apples.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown.
Serve warm, optionally with ice cream or whipped cream.

Ingredients

Ingredients:

4 cups apples, peeled and sliced
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 cup brown sugar
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup rolled oats
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 cup butter, melted
1/4 teaspoon salt

Directions

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a bowl, combine the sliced apples and lemon juice, and transfer to a greased baking dish.
In another bowl, mix brown sugar, flour, oats, cinnamon, and salt.
Stir in the melted butter until crumbly.
Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the apples.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown.
Serve warm, optionally with ice cream or whipped cream.

How to Serve Baked Apple Crumble

For the best experience, serve baked apple crumble warm right out of the oven. Pair it with vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to enhance its delightful flavors. For a touch of flair, you can sprinkle some cinnamon on top or garnish with fresh mint leaves.

If you’re feeling creative, try adding a scoop of caramel sauce on the side. Seasonal variations, such as adding cranberries in the fall or nuts for a crunch, can elevate your dish further.

How to Store Baked Apple Crumble

Fridge Instructions: Store leftover crumble in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezer Instructions: Wrap the crumble tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to freeze. It can be stored for up to 2 months.

Reheating Methods: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for quick servings.

Shelf Life: Properly stored, baked apple crumble lasts 3 days in the fridge, or 2 months in the freezer.

Safety Notes: Always check for signs of spoilage before consuming leftovers.

Tips to Make Baked Apple Crumble Perfect

Expert Cooking Tips: Use a mix of tart and sweet apples for a deeper flavor profile. Granny Smith and Honeycrisp work wonderfully together.
Common Mistakes: Avoid overmixing the topping—this could lead to a dense texture instead of a crumble.
Enhancements: Add chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, for an extra crunch and flavor boost.
Texture Control Tips: Ensure the apples are sliced evenly to achieve uniform cooking, helping you avoid mushy bites.

Variations

Spicy Version: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for a warm, spiced twist.
Kid-Friendly Version: Use sweeter apples and sprinkle more sugar on top for a dessert kids will love.
Budget Version: Utilize frozen apples or bulk oats for a cost-effective dessert.
Healthy Version: Substitute coconut oil for butter and use brown sugar or coconut sugar for healthier sweetening.
Seasonal Twist: Incorporate pumpkin or squash puree with the apples for an autumn-inspired treat.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use any type of apples?
Yes, you can use any apples you prefer! A mix of tart and sweet apples, like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp, works best for a balanced flavor.

Q2: How do I know when my baked apple crumble is done?
Your crumble is done when the topping is golden brown and the apples are tender. You can poke the apples with a fork to check for tenderness.

Q3: Can I make baked apple crumble ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and topping separately and assemble them just before baking. This method will save time if you’re planning for a gathering.

Q4: What’s the best way to serve leftovers?
The best way to enjoy leftovers is to reheat them in the oven, allowing the topping to regain some of its original crunch.

Q5: Can I freeze baked apple crumble?
Yes, baked apple crumble freezes well! Just wrap it securely and store it in the freezer for up to two months. Be sure to reheat thoroughly before serving.

Closing

We hope you join us in making this delicious baked apple crumble! It’s simple, comforting, and sure to become a favorite in your home. Try it out, save it, and let the enticing aroma fill your kitchen. Enjoy every crumb!