Classic Apple Crumble Recipe

Classic Apple Crumble is the ultimate British dessert that transforms simple apples into a warm, golden masterpiece that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas. This timeless comfort food brings together tender, cinnamon-spiced apples beneath a buttery, crumbly topping that’s pure comfort food magic.

I still remember my first bite of homemade apple crumble at my grandmother’s kitchen table on a chilly autumn evening. The contrast between the soft, sweet apples and that perfectly crispy topping was unforgettable. This classic apple crumble recipe uses everyday pantry ingredients to create something truly special. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or craving comfort food on a quiet night, this easy apple dessert delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort and turns out perfectly every time.

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Apple Crumble

I always recommend using a mix of tart and sweet apples for the most balanced flavor profile. Here’s everything you’ll need for this foolproof recipe:

For the Apple Filling:

• 6 to 8 crisp apples (such as Granny Smith or Braeburn), peeled, cored, and sliced into 1/4-inch pieces
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 1 to 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

For the Crumble Topping:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ½ cup rolled oats (optional but recommended for extra texture)
• ½ cup cold unsalted butter, diced into small cubes

Optional Add-ins:

• ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
• Additional spices like nutmeg or ginger

Pro tip: I always keep my butter in the refrigerator until ready to use, then dice it into small cubes. Cold butter is essential for achieving that perfect crumbly texture that makes this classic apple crumble so satisfying.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

I recommend preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish before you start prepping.

Step 1: Prepare the apple filling by peeling, coring, and slicing your apples into uniform 1/4-inch pieces (about 3 pounds total). Toss them gently with lemon juice, brown sugar, and cinnamon until each slice is well coated. The lemon juice prevents browning and adds brightness that balances the sweetness.

Step 2: Create the crumble topping by combining flour, brown sugar, and oats in a separate bowl. Add the cold, diced butter and rub it in with your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs with some larger butter pieces remaining. This creates those delightful crispy clusters.

Step 3: Spread the spiced apples evenly in your prepared 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the crumble mixture over the apples, ensuring complete coverage to seal in moisture and create that gorgeous golden crust.

Step 4: Bake for 40 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and you can see the apple filling bubbling up around the edges. The top should feel set when lightly touched.

Step 5: Allow the classic apple crumble to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This resting time helps the juices thicken slightly and makes serving much easier.

Perfect Pairings and Serving Ideas

This warm apple dessert pairs beautifully with creamy accompaniments that complement its rustic charm.

Vanilla Ice Cream: The cold, creamy texture creates an amazing temperature contrast with the warm crumble, making each bite especially satisfying.

Fresh Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream adds elegance while letting the apple flavors shine through beautifully.

Thick Greek Yogurt: For a healthier option, Greek yogurt provides protein and tangy balance to the sweet, spiced apples.

Warm Custard: Traditional British-style custard makes this the ultimate comfort food experience, especially during colder months.

Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of homemade or store-bought caramel sauce takes this classic apple crumble to indulgent new heights.

More Amazing Apple Desserts and Perfect Dinner Pairings

This classic apple crumble is just the beginning of a wonderful collection of apple-inspired treats that capture the essence of cozy comfort food. For variations on this beloved theme, try our Perfect Apple Crumble Recipe with its slightly different technique, or explore our Fall Apple Crumble Pie for a more elegant presentation. The Apple Crumb Cake with Cinnamon Apple Drizzle and Apple Crumble Cheesecake Recipe offer delightful twists on the classic crumble theme.

For breakfast or afternoon treats, our Apple Cinnamon Streusel Muffins and Apple Pumpkin Streusel Muffins bring these same cozy apple flavors to portable formats. When planning a complete meal, serve this crumble after hearty mains like Chicken Alfredo Garlic Bread or Roasted Garlic White Chicken Pizza.

Smart Storage and Reheating Tips

Store your finished apple crumble covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain optimal freshness and food safety.

For reheating, I recommend warming individual portions in the microwave for 30-60 seconds, or reheat the entire dish in a 325°F (160°C) oven for 15-20 minutes until heated through. The oven method helps restore that lovely crispy topping texture.

Pro tip: You can assemble this classic apple crumble completely and freeze it unbaked for up to 2 months. Simply wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then bake directly from frozen, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.

Common Questions About Apple Crumble

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