aapple crumble

A comforting British classic, this easy apple crumble combines sweet, spiced apples with a buttery, golden topping. It’s the perfect quick dessert for family meals or cozy nights in, especially when served with custard or cream.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready with minimal prep time and simple ingredients

• Ideal for making ahead or freezing for later

• Comforting and nostalgic with warm cinnamon notes

• Easy to customize with oats, nuts, or different fruits

• Family-friendly and crowd-pleasing

• No eggs or nuts, and vegetarian-friendly

Ingredients

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

For the crumble topping:

• 300g plain flour

• Pinch of salt

• 175g brown sugar

• 200g unsalted butter, cubed and at room temperature, plus a little for greasing

For the apple filling:

• 450g apples, peeled, cored, and cut into 1cm pieces

• 50g brown sugar

• 1 tablespoon plain flour

• Pinch of ground cinnamon

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan) or Gas Mark 4.

2. In a large bowl, mix flour, salt, and sugar. Add the butter and rub it in with your fingertips until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.

3. In another bowl, combine apples with sugar, flour, and cinnamon. Stir gently to coat the apples.

4. Butter a 24cm ovenproof dish and pour in the apple mixture.

5. Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the apples.

6. Bake for 40–45 minutes, until the top is golden and the fruit is bubbling.

7. Serve warm with thick cream or custard.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 6

• Prep time: Less than 30 minutes

• Cook time: 40–45 minutes

• Total time: About 1 hour

Variations

• With oats: Add a handful of rolled oats to the crumble for texture and fiber.

• Nutty crumble: Stir in chopped walnuts or almonds for crunch.

• Different fruits: Try a mix of apple and pear or throw in some berries.

• Lower sugar: Use eating apples and reduce the sugar in the filling.

• Spices: Add nutmeg, ginger, or vanilla for a flavor twist.

Storage / reheating

• Storage: Cool completely, then refrigerate covered for up to 4 days.

• Freezing: Freeze unbaked or leftover crumble for up to 4 months. Wrap tightly in foil or use a freezer-safe container.

• Reheating: Microwave individual portions or reheat in a 160°C oven until warmed through. Defrost before oven reheating if frozen.

FAQs

Can I use eating apples instead of Bramley apples?

Yes, but reduce the sugar as eating apples are naturally sweeter and stay firmer when cooked.

How do I keep the crumble topping from getting soggy?

Bake uncovered until golden and bubbling. If making ahead, reheat uncovered to maintain the crisp topping.

Can I prepare this crumble in advance?

Absolutely. Assemble and refrigerate before baking, or freeze for later. Bake fresh when ready.

What’s the best way to rub in the butter?

Use your fingertips and gently work the butter into the flour until you get a breadcrumb-like texture. Avoid overmixing.

Can I use white sugar instead of brown?

Yes. Granulated or caster sugar works, though brown sugar adds a richer flavor.

What if my crumble topping turns out doughy?

It likely got overmixed. Mix just until crumbly and avoid compacting the butter too much.

Should I peel the apples?

Yes, for a soft texture. You can leave the skins on for more fiber and texture, but the result will be a bit chewier.

Can I make this crumble gluten-free?

Yes. Substitute plain flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes a binder like xanthan gum.

How do I reheat leftovers?

Microwave for 1–2 minutes or reheat in the oven at 160°C until warmed through.

What’s the best topping—cream or custard?

Both are great! Custard offers more richness, while cream adds a smooth, cool contrast. Vanilla ice cream is also a great choice.

Conclusion

This easy apple crumble is the ultimate fuss-free dessert that never fails to impress. Whether served hot with custard or cold with cream, its combination of soft, spiced apples and buttery topping is irresistible. Perfect for weeknights, dinner parties, or anytime you need a comforting sweet treat.