Apple Crumble

Updated: November 17, 2025

Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 10 minutes (including prep and baking)

Rating: 5.0 (Based on 6,756 reviews)

Reader Comments: 470 comments

Introduction

Apple Crumble stands as an essential dessert recipe for home cooks, celebrated for its uncomplicated yet deeply satisfying preparation. This classic dish marries tender, aromatic apples with a crisp, buttery crumble topping, creating a harmonious balance of textures and flavors. Ideal for both casual gatherings and cozy evenings, it shines when paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of plain whole-milk yogurt. The recipe’s success hinges on a generous crumble mixture—studded with pecans and old-fashioned rolled oats—ensuring a light, crunchy contrast against the juicy, slightly tart-sweet fruit filling.

Ingredients (Serves 6–8)

Fruit Filling

• 6 medium apples (≈1.2 kg/2.5 lbs), peeled, cored, and cut into 1.5 cm (½-inch) chunks (e.g., mix of Honeycrisp (sweet) and Granny Smith (tart))

• 3 tbsp granulated sugar (to enhance sweetness and draw out moisture)

• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice (to brighten flavor and prevent browning)

• ¼ tsp ground cinnamon (optional, for warmth)

Crumble Topping

• 1 cup (150 g) old-fashioned rolled oats (not instant)

• ½ cup (75 g) chopped pecans (or walnuts)

• ½ cup (113 g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed (for crispness)

• ⅓ cup (65 g) packed light brown sugar

• 2 tbsp granulated sugar

• ¼ tsp fine sea salt (optional, to balance sweetness)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Oven & Prep Dish

Preheat the oven to 175°C (350°F). Line a 9×9-inch (23×23 cm) baking dish with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Prepare Apple Filling

In a large bowl, combine chopped apples, granulated sugar, lemon juice, and cinnamon (if using). Toss gently to coat apples evenly; the sugar will dissolve slightly and draw out moisture, creating a juicy base.

Step 3: Make the Crumble Topping

In a separate bowl, mix rolled oats, chopped pecans, cold butter cubes, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and salt (if using). Use fingertips or a fork to work the butter into the dry ingredients until coarse crumbs form (butter should remain partially visible for texture).

Step 4: Assemble & Bake

Transfer the apple mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the crumble topping over the apples, pressing lightly to secure. Bake for 50–60 minutes, until the topping is golden-brown and apples are tender (a fork pierces easily).

Step 5: Rest & Serve

Let the crumble rest for 10–15 minutes to allow the filling to thicken. Serve warm with ice cream, yogurt, or caramel sauce.

Tips for Perfection

• Apple Blend: Sweet-tart apple combinations (e.g., Honeycrisp + Granny Smith) ensure balanced flavor and texture.

• Butter Technique: Cold, cubed butter creates a crispy topping—avoid melting it prematurely.

• Baking Adjustment: If the topping browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil for the first 40 minutes, then uncover for 10–20 minutes.

This timeless dessert is a testament to simplicity, offering a comforting, crowd-pleasing experience with minimal effort.