Crumble Topping
A simple crisp topping you can make in minutes and use on many desserts.
introduction
This Crumble Topping is easy and crunchy. It adds a sweet, buttery layer to fruit, cakes, and more. Try it on warm fruit desserts for a cozy treat, or pair it with ice cream. For a full baked fruit idea, see this baked apple crumble for inspiration.
why make this recipe
You make this recipe because it is quick and gives texture. It uses pantry ingredients. It makes any simple dessert feel special. Kids and adults both like the crunch and sweetness.
how to make Crumble Topping
Mix dry ingredients, add melted butter, stir until crumbly, and bake until golden. You can spread it over fruit or press it into pans for bars. You can also turn this mix into bars like the cranberry crumble bars if you want a handheld treat.
Ingredients :
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
Directions :
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, oats, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
- Pour in the melted butter and stir until the mixture is crumbly.
- Spread the crumble topping evenly over your favorite desserts.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
- Serve warm with a scoop of ice cream or as a topping for your favorite desserts.
how to serve Crumble Topping
Serve warm over baked fruit like apples, berries, or pears. Spoon it over warm pie or cobbler. Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a simple dessert. You can also use it on muffins and quick breads.
how to store Crumble Topping
Cool the topping fully. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze in a sealed bag for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven to bring back crispness.
tips to make Crumble Topping
Use cold butter if you want bigger clumps. Mix less for a finer crumb. Taste the mix before baking to adjust sugar or cinnamon. If you like a richer flavor, use brown butter. You can use this topping on coffee cake or banana bread as a thick crumb topping for coffee cake or banana bread.
variation (if any)
- Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for crunch.
- Swap half the oats for crushed cornflakes for extra texture.
- Stir in lemon zest for a bright note on berry desserts.
- Make it gluten-free with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this topping ahead of time?
A: Yes. Make and store in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 1 month.
Q: Can I use unsalted butter only?
A: Yes. The recipe uses unsalted butter. If you only have salted butter, skip added salt or reduce it.
Q: Can I skip the oats?
A: Yes. You can skip oats for a finer crumb, but the oats add nice texture.
Q: How do I make it extra crunchy?
A: Use chilled butter in chunks and mix lightly. Bake until deep golden brown.
Q: Is this topping sweet enough for tart fruit?
A: Yes. You can increase brown or granulated sugar by a tablespoon if your fruit is very tart.