Easy Apple Crumble Recipe

This apple crumble recipe creates the perfect balance of tender, cinnamon-spiced apples topped with a golden, crunchy crumble topping. After years of testing different methods, I’ve perfected this simple dessert that delivers consistent results every time.

The secret lies in creating a jammy apple filling that won’t turn watery and a crumble topping that stays crisp without being dry. This classic comfort food takes just 15 minutes to prepare and fills your kitchen with the most amazing aroma while baking.

Ingredients for Perfect Apple Crumble

Here’s everything you need to make this delicious homemade apple crumble from scratch:

Apple Filling:

• 2 pounds Granny Smith apples (before peeling)
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup white sugar
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Crumble Topping:

• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon powder
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• Pinch of salt

For Serving:

• Vanilla ice cream

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making this easy apple crumble follows a simple process that even beginners can master.

Prepare the Oven and Apples:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C)
2. Peel the apples and cut them into 1/2-inch cubes
3. Place apple pieces in a large mixing bowl

Create the Apple Filling:

1. Sprinkle flour, sugar, and cinnamon over the apples
2. Pour lemon juice over the mixture
3. Toss everything together until apples are well coated
4. Spread the mixture evenly in a 1.5-quart baking dish

Make the Crumble Topping:

1. Combine all topping ingredients in a separate bowl
2. Mix until the mixture forms clumps like wet sand
3. Spread the crumble mixture over the apples
4. Use your fingers to create an even, crumbly layer

Bake to Perfection:

1. Bake for 30 to 40 minutes until golden brown
2. Cover loosely with foil after removing from oven
3. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving

Best Apples for Apple Crumble

Choosing the right apples makes a huge difference in your final dessert. Granny Smith apples work best because they hold their shape during baking and provide a nice tart flavor that balances the sweet crumble topping. These green apples also release just enough juice to create that perfect jammy consistency without becoming mushy.

You can substitute other apple varieties if needed. Honeycrisp apples offer sweetness with good texture, while Braeburn apples provide a nice balance of sweet and tart flavors. Avoid overly soft varieties like Red Delicious, as they break down too much during baking.

Why This Apple Crumble Works

This recipe addresses common issues that affect many homemade apple desserts:

Perfect Apple Filling:

• Small amount of flour prevents watery consistency
• Creates slightly jammy texture without being thick
• Lemon juice prevents apples from browning
• Right sugar balance enhances natural apple flavor

Ideal Crumble Topping:

• Oats provide crunch and interesting texture
• Flour helps bind ingredients together
• Melted butter creates desirable clumps
• Brown sugar adds deeper flavor than white sugar
• Baking powder ensures light, crispy texture

Tips for Success

Follow these essential tips to ensure your apple crumble turns out perfectly every time:

• Keep oven door closed during baking to maintain consistent temperature
• Don’t skip the 10-minute resting period after baking
• Cut apples into uniform pieces for even cooking
• Use room temperature butter for easier mixing
• Serve immediately with vanilla ice cream for best results
• Check for doneness by looking for golden brown color on top

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This apple crumble offers great flexibility for meal planning and storage:

Make-Ahead Options:

• Prepare filling and topping separately up to 4 hours ahead
• Store covered in refrigerator until ready to bake
• Add crumble topping just before baking for best texture

Storage Guidelines:

• Keep leftover crumble covered in refrigerator for up to 3 days
• Reheat individual portions in microwave for 30 seconds
• Warm entire dish in 300°F oven for 10 minutes
• Avoid freezing as it affects the crumble texture

Recipe Variations

Transform this basic apple crumble into exciting new desserts with these creative variations:

Fruit Alternatives:

• Replace apples with pears for a sophisticated twist
• Use fresh peaches during summer season
• Mix berries with apples for added color and flavor
• Try a combination of apples and cranberries

Dietary Modifications:

• Substitute butter with coconut oil for dairy-free version
• Use gluten-free flour blend for celiac-friendly option
• Replace white sugar with coconut sugar for lower glycemic option
• Add chopped nuts to topping for extra crunch

This foolproof apple crumble recipe delivers consistent results every time. The combination of perfectly spiced apples and crunchy topping creates a dessert that’s both comforting and impressive enough for guests.

Easy Apple Crumble Recipe

This apple crumble recipe creates the perfect balance of tender, cinnamon-spiced apples topped with a golden, crunchy crumble topping. The secret lies in creating a jammy apple filling that won’t turn watery and a crumble topping that stays crisp without being dry. This classic comfort food takes just 15 minutes to prepare and fills your kitchen with the most amazing aroma while baking.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Resting Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 5 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American, British

Calories: 285

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Apple Filling

• 2 pounds Granny Smith apples weight before peeling
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup white sugar
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Crumble Topping

• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon powder
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted
• 1 pinch salt

For Serving

• vanilla ice cream

Equipment

• 1.5-quart baking dish
• large mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and Cutting Board
• Vegetable Peeler

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Peel the apples and cut them into 1/2-inch cubes. Place apple pieces in a large mixing bowl.
3. Sprinkle flour, sugar, and cinnamon over the apples. Pour lemon juice over the mixture and toss everything together until apples are well coated.
4. Spread the apple mixture evenly in a 1.5-quart baking dish.
5. In a separate bowl, combine all topping ingredients and mix until the mixture forms clumps like wet sand.
6. Spread the crumble mixture over the apples, using your fingers to create an even, crumbly layer.
7. Bake for 30 to 40 minutes until golden brown on top.
8. Remove from oven and cover loosely with foil. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving to allow the apple syrup to thicken slightly.
9. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream.

Notes

Apple Selection: Granny Smith apples work best for their tart flavor and ability to hold shape during baking. You can substitute with Honeycrisp or Braeburn apples if preferred.

Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare filling and topping separately up to 4 hours ahead. Store covered in refrigerator and add topping just before baking.

Storage: Leftover crumble keeps in refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in microwave for 30 seconds or in 300°F oven for 10 minutes.

Variations: Try substituting apples with pears, peaches, or mixed berries. For dietary needs, use coconut oil instead of butter or gluten-free flour blend.