Simple Apple Crumble (Apple Crisp) Recipe

If you are craving a comforting dessert that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, then this Simple Apple Crumble (Apple Crisp) is exactly what you need. Bursting with tender, cinnamon-spiced apples and topped with a satisfyingly crunchy, buttery crumble, this dish effortlessly blends sweet and tart flavors with a rustic texture that everyone will love. It’s one of those timeless recipes that is both incredibly easy to make and delightfully impressive, perfect for cozy family dinners or last-minute guests.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this Simple Apple Crumble (Apple Crisp), you only need a handful of wonderfully basic ingredients that work in harmony to create that perfect balance of taste, texture, and color. Each ingredient plays a crucial role—from the juicy apples to the crumbly topping that provides just the right crunch.

• 6 apples: The star of the dish, providing sweetness and a beautiful natural texture when baked.
• ½ tsp grated nutmeg: Adds warm, aromatic spice that enhances the apple’s natural flavor.
• ½ tsp cinnamon: A classic spice that infuses the filling with comforting depth.
• 2 Tbsp brown sugar: Sweetens the apple mixture with rich caramel notes.
• 1 Tbsp all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the apple juices as they cook, preventing a soggy bottom.
• 1 Tbsp white sugar: Adds a neat touch of sweetness and helps balance the tartness.
• Juice of half a lemon: Provides brightness and a hint of acidity to balance the dessert’s sweetness.
• 1 cup all-purpose flour (for topping): Forms the base of the crumble; you can substitute self-raising flour for a slightly puffier texture.
• 1 cup porridge oats: Gives the topping a rustic, hearty crunch.
• 125 g butter: The magic ingredient that binds the crumble, adding richness; use cold, softened butter for best results.
• 1 cup light brown sugar: Sweetens and caramelizes the topping as it bakes, creating that irresistible golden crust.
• ¼ tsp salt: A pinch to balance sweetness and elevate all the flavors.

How to Make Simple Apple Crumble (Apple Crisp)

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

Start by preheating your oven to 180C (375F) and set up your baking dish. Peel, core, and chop the apples into bite-sized pieces. Toss them in the baking pan with flour, both sugars, cinnamon, nutmeg, and half the lemon juice. Make sure every apple chunk is coated well to intensify the aroma and create that luscious filling.

Step 2: Create the Crumble Topping

In a separate bowl, combine the oats, flour, light brown sugar, and a pinch of salt. Add the cold butter and rub it in with your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs with some chunkier bits—that uneven texture is what makes this crumble topping so irresistible.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

Evenly sprinkle your oat and butter crumble over the apple mixture, making sure to cover the filling generously. Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the topping turns crispy and golden and the bubbly apple filling is simmering happily underneath.

Step 4: Cool and Serve

Once baked, allow the crumble to rest for a few minutes to set. This simple pause lets the juices thicken just enough, ensuring each spoonful is a perfect balance of gooey fruit and crunchy topping.

How to Serve Simple Apple Crumble (Apple Crisp)

Garnishes

This Simple Apple Crumble (Apple Crisp) shines on its own, but a scoop of velvety vanilla ice cream or a generous pour of silky custard takes it to the next level. A sprinkle of toasted nuts or a drizzle of caramel sauce adds even more warmth and texture, making each bite a dream come true.

Side Dishes

While this crumble is a fantastic dessert by itself, pairing it with freshly brewed coffee or a fragrant cup of spiced chai can complement the cozy flavors perfectly. For a more indulgent treat, a dollop of whipped cream can add softness and lightness alongside each portion.

Creative Ways to Present

You can serve this classic in a communal baking dish for a family-style dessert or spoon it into individual ramekins for a more elegant touch. For a fun twist, try layering crumble with yogurt or mascarpone in clear glasses to create a rustic parfait that lets those golden crumbs peek through.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover Simple Apple Crumble (Apple Crisp) should be refrigerated in an airtight container and will stay delicious for up to 3 days. The flavors mellow beautifully, making the next-day serving just as enjoyable.

Freezing

This dessert freezes wonderfully. Simply cover the unbaked crumble tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, bake it straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time so it cooks evenly.

Reheating

To refresh your leftovers, reheat the crumble in a preheated oven at 160C (320F) for 15-20 minutes until warmed through and the topping regains its crispness. Avoid microwaving as the topping can become soggy.

FAQs

Can I use other types of apples for this Simple Apple Crumble (Apple Crisp)?

Absolutely! While tart apples like Granny Smith are classic, you can mix in sweeter varieties like Fuji or Gala for a more complex flavor profile. Just aim for apples that hold their shape well during baking.

What if I don’t have porridge oats for the crumble topping?

If oats are not on hand, you can still make the crumble with extra flour and butter, but oats provide that wonderful texture and nutty flavor. Alternatively, chopped nuts or crushed cornflakes can add a delightful crunch.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free flour and certified gluten-free oats to keep it friendly for gluten sensitivities while still achieving that fantastic crumbly topping.

How do I prevent the crumble topping from burning?

If the topping browns too quickly while the apples are still cooking, loosely cover the dish with foil and remove it for the last 10 minutes to crisp up beautifully without over-baking.

Is there a vegan version of this Simple Apple Crumble (Apple Crisp)?

Definitely! Swap the butter for a plant-based alternative like coconut oil or vegan margarine, and ensure sugars are vegan-friendly. The rest of the ingredients are naturally vegan, so it’s easy to adapt.

Final Thoughts

This Simple Apple Crumble (Apple Crisp) recipe is the quintessential comfort dessert that feels like a warm embrace from the inside out. With just a few pantry staples, you can create something truly delightful that will impress your family and friends every time. So, get cozy, preheat that oven, and enjoy every golden crumb—you’ll be glad you did.

Print