Classic Apple Crumble Recipe

Introduction

Classic apple crumble is a comforting dessert that combines tender, cinnamon-spiced apples with a buttery, crunchy topping. It’s easy to make and perfect for cozy evenings or festive gatherings.

A white rectangular baking dish filled with a two-layer dessert sits on a wooden board. The bottom layer is a soft, cooked apple filling that peeks through the edges, showing a glossy, syrupy light brown color with chunks of tender apple. The top layer is a crumbly golden-brown streusel topping made of uneven, coarse clusters that cover the whole dish with a crunchy texture. Around the dish, there are some sliced green apples on a wooden round board, and whole red and green apples sit nearby on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

  • For the crumb topping:
    • 1 cup all-purpose flour
    • 3/4 cup packed brown sugar (light or dark)
    • 1 tsp baking powder
    • 1/2 tsp salt
    • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
    • 8 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • For the apple filling:
    • 2 1/2 lb Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, and chopped (about 6 to 7 cups)
    • 1/2 cup granulated sugar or brown sugar
    • 1 tbsp lemon juice
    • 2 tbsp cornstarch or all-purpose flour
    • 1/2 tsp salt
    • 1 tsp ground cinnamon

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray an 8 or 9-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray and set aside.
  2. Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Pour in the melted butter and stir with a fork until coarse crumbs form. Use your hands for a perfect crumbly texture.
  3. Step 3: In a large bowl, combine the chopped apples with sugar, lemon juice, cornstarch (or flour), salt, and cinnamon. Stir well to coat the apples evenly.
  4. Step 4: Spread the apple mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the crumb topping over the apples, covering them completely.
  5. Step 5: Bake for 35 to 45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. For easier cleanup, place a baking sheet underneath to catch any drips.
  6. Step 6: Let the crumble cool for about 15 minutes to allow the filling to set. Serve warm, optionally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Tips & Variations

  • Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a balanced sweetness and bright flavor.
  • For added texture, mix chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans into the topping.
  • Try adding a pinch of nutmeg or ground cloves to the filling for extra warmth.
  • If you prefer a softer topping, add an extra tablespoon of melted butter.

Storage

Store leftover apple crumble covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the whole dish in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through. It’s best enjoyed warm but can also be served at room temperature.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a white rectangular baking dish filled with apple crumble. The bottom layer shows soft, cooked apple slices in a thick, golden syrup, while the top layer is a crumbly, golden brown topping with a rough texture and small chunks. The crumble is sprinkled lightly with sugar. The dish is placed on a wooden surface with a blurred green apple in the foreground and a white marbled background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of apples?

Yes, you can mix apple varieties or use sweeter apples like Fuji or Honeycrisp. Keep in mind that sweeter apples may reduce the need for added sugar.

Can I make apple crumble ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can prepare the filling and topping separately and assemble the crumble just before baking. Alternatively, bake it in advance and reheat when ready to serve.

Print

Classic Apple Crumble Recipe

Classic Apple Crumble is a comforting and delightful dessert featuring tart Granny Smith apples coated in a cinnamon-spiced filling and topped with a buttery, crumbly topping. Baked to golden perfection, this treat offers a perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors with a crisp, crunchy texture, ideal for cozy family gatherings or anytime you crave a warm, nostalgic dessert.

  • Author: Lily
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

For the Crumb Topping:

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3/4 cup packed brown sugar (light or dark)
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 8 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

For the Apple Filling:

  • 2 1/2 lb Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, and chopped (about 6 to 7 cups)
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar or brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 2 tbsp cornstarch or all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon

Instructions

  1. Prepare Baking Dish and Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray an 8 or 9-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking, and set it aside while you prepare the filling and topping.
  2. Make the Crumble Topping: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon until well combined. Pour in the melted butter and stir with a fork until the mixture forms coarse, crumbly clumps. Use your hands toward the end for perfectly sized crumbs.
  3. Prepare the Apple Filling: In a large bowl, combine the peeled, cored, and chopped apples with granulated sugar (or brown sugar), lemon juice, cornstarch (or flour), salt, and cinnamon. Stir well to coat the apples evenly.
  4. Assemble the Apple Crisp: Spread the apple filling evenly into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the apples to fully cover the fruit.
  5. Bake the Apple Crisp: Place the assembled dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 35 to 45 minutes, until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. Optionally, place a baking sheet underneath to catch any bubbling juices.
  6. Cool and Serve: Let the apple crisp cool for about 15 minutes to allow the filling to set slightly. Serve warm, optionally topped with vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.

Notes

  • Use fresh lemon juice for a brighter, fresher flavor.
  • Placing a baking sheet underneath can prevent oven mess from bubbling juices.
  • For variation, try adding chopped nuts or oats to the crumb topping.
  • Serving warm with vanilla ice cream enhances the dessert experience.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Keywords: apple crumble, apple crisp, baked apple dessert, classic dessert, fall dessert, Granny Smith apple recipe, easy apple dessert

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