Of all the fall desserts, apple crumble is the one I come back to every year. It’s warm, comforting, and incredibly simple to make even on a busy weekday. My love for this dish started in my early days of learning how to cook for strength and recovery. I needed food that was easy, satisfying, and packed with real ingredients. This apple crumble recipe checks every box.
What makes this the best apple crumble recipe you’ll ever need? It gives you a topping that’s golden and crisp with just the right crumble. The apple filling is syrupy, not watery, and full of balanced flavor from tart apples and just enough sweetness. You only need a handful of pantry staples and about 15 minutes of prep.
This isn’t just a dessert. It’s comfort in a dish and a go-to recipe you’ll want to save forever.
Table of Contents
What is Apple Crumble? (And How Is It Different from a Crisp?)
Apple crumble is a classic dessert made with tender baked apples topped with a crumbly mixture of flour, sugar, and butter. It’s simple, rustic, and full of cozy flavor. The topping bakes to a golden finish while the apples turn soft and syrupy underneath.
Many people confuse apple crumble with apple crisp, but they are not the same. The difference comes down to the topping. Apple crumble uses a flour-based topping that turns crumbly and rich. Apple crisp includes oats in the topping, which creates a slightly crunchier texture. Both are delicious, but this apple crumble recipe focuses on that buttery, biscuit-like finish that defines the traditional version.
Why This Recipe Is the Best
This apple crumble recipe solves the most common baking problems right from the start.
Crumble That’s Actually Crumbly
The topping in this apple crumble recipe is crisp and golden with just the right amount of texture. It forms chunky, buttery crumbs that bake evenly without turning dry or doughy.
Filling That’s Syrupy, Not Watery
Nothing ruins a good apple crumble like a runny base. This recipe uses a small amount of flour in the filling. That thickens the apple juices into a glossy syrup that clings to every bite.
Quick and Simple
No special tools. No fancy ingredients. You only need a bowl, a baking dish, and pantry basics. Prep takes less than 15 minutes, and the steps are easy enough for beginners.
Balanced Flavor
Granny Smith apples bring a tart kick, while brown sugar and cinnamon add warm sweetness. The mix creates a deep apple flavor without being too sugary. Every bite gives you the perfect contrast of soft apple and crunchy topping.
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“I learned that high‑quality, satisfying ingredients in small quantities can be more fulfilling… Smaller portions of rich, from‑scratch desserts satisfied my sweets cravings in a way that larger portions of prepackaged, low‑sugar, low‑fat treats never seemed to.” Self
Ingredients Needed
To make the best apple crumble recipe, you’ll need a few basic ingredients. They’re grouped below to keep things clear and simple.
For the Apple Filling
• Granny Smith apples, about 2 pounds before peeling. Their tart flavor holds up well in baking.
• All-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon. Helps thicken the juices into a syrup.
• White sugar, half a cup. You can swap in brown sugar for a richer taste.
• Lemon juice, 2 tablespoons. Adds brightness and keeps the apples from browning.
• Ground cinnamon, half a teaspoon. Brings warmth and depth to the filling.
For the Crumble Topping
• Rolled oats, 1 cup. Quick-cooking oats work fine too.
• All-purpose flour, 1 cup. Forms the base of the topping.
• Brown sugar, 1 cup loosely packed. You can use white sugar if that’s all you have.
• Baking powder, half a teaspoon. Helps give the topping a little lift.
• Ground cinnamon, 1 teaspoon. Boosts the warm, spiced flavor.
• Unsalted butter, melted, half a cup. Creates the perfect crumb texture.
• Pinch of salt. Balances the sweetness.
To Serve
• Vanilla ice cream. Optional but highly recommended for that hot-and-cold contrast.
How to Make the Best Apple Crumble Recipe
Follow these easy steps to create a warm and delicious apple crumble with a crunchy topping and syrupy filling.
Step 1: Preheat the oven
Set your oven to 350°F or 180°C. Do this first so it’s ready when your crumble is assembled.
Step 2: Prepare the apples
Peel the Granny Smith apples and cut them into small cubes about half an inch wide. This size helps them cook evenly without turning to mush.
Step 3: Mix the filling
Place the apple pieces in a large bowl. Sprinkle the flour, sugar, and ground cinnamon over them. Pour in the lemon juice. Gently toss everything until the apples are well coated and the dry ingredients disappear. Spread this mixture evenly into a 1.5-quart baking dish.
Step 4: Make the crumble topping
In a clean bowl, combine the oats, flour, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, melted butter, and a pinch of salt. Stir until the mixture forms chunky crumbs. You want it to look like coarse, wet sand with some clumps. If it seems too smooth, pinch it between your fingers to form crumbs.
Step 5: Add the topping
Sprinkle the crumble mixture evenly over the apples. Don’t press it down. Let the crumbly texture sit loose on top to help it crisp up as it bakes.
Step 6: Bake the crumble
Place the baking dish on a sheet tray in case any filling bubbles over. Bake for 30 to 40 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the edges are bubbling. If the top starts to brown too quickly, loosely cover it with foil.
Step 7: Let it rest
Once out of the oven, let the apple crumble sit for 10 to 15 minutes. This helps the filling thicken up and makes serving easier.
Step 8: Serve and enjoy
Scoop into bowls and top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Serve warm for the best flavor and texture.
Easy Apple Crumble Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
- Peel and dice the apples into 1/2-inch cubes.
- In a large bowl, toss apples with flour, sugar, lemon juice, and cinnamon until evenly coated. Spread into a 1.5-quart baking dish.
- In a separate bowl, mix oats, flour, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, melted butter, and salt until crumbly.
- Sprinkle the topping evenly over the apple mixture. Do not press down.
- Place the baking dish on a sheet tray and bake for 30–40 minutes, until the topping is golden and filling is bubbling.
- Let rest for 10–15 minutes before serving.
- Serve warm with vanilla ice cream if desired.
Notes
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – 190g)
Calories: 378 | Total Fat: 12.6g | Saturated Fat: 7.5g | Trans Fat: 0g | Cholesterol: 31mg | Sodium: 109mg | Potassium: 242mg | Total Carbohydrates: 66.1g | Dietary Fiber: 4.5g | Sugars: 42.1g | Protein: 3.6g | Vitamin A: 7% | Vitamin C: 17% | Calcium: 4% | Iron: 11% | Nutrition Grade: B- Nutrition Disclaimer Nutritional information provided is an estimate and may vary based on the products and brands you use. Calculate the actual nutrition values using your preferred nutrition calculator and the exact ingredients you choose.You’ll Also Love
➤ Old-Fashioned Apple Crisp
➤ Pioneer Woman Apple Crisp
Equipment Used
- Cutting board and knife : For peeling and chopping the apples.
- Mixing bowls : One for the filling and one for the crumble topping.
- Measuring cups and spoons : To get accurate amounts for each ingredient.
- Baking dish : A 1.5-quart (or similar size) dish to hold everything during baking.
- Spoon or spatula : To mix and spread ingredients evenly.
- Sheet tray (optional) : To catch any overflow in the oven.
- Oven mitts : For safely handling the hot dish when removing it from the oven.
Pro Tips for Perfect Results Every Time
These simple tips will help your apple crumble recipe turn out perfectly every time you make it.
Don’t Overmix the Topping
Stir just until the ingredients come together and form crumbs. Overmixing can lead to a dense or greasy topping.
Use a Mix of Apples for Flavor Depth
While Granny Smith apples are the base, mixing in sweeter types like Gala or Honeycrisp creates a more interesting flavor. The balance of tart and sweet makes a big difference.
Let It Cool Before Serving
As tempting as it is to dig in right away, let your apple crumble rest for 15 to 30 minutes. This gives the juices time to set and helps the filling thicken naturally.
Bake on a Tray for Easy Cleanup
Place your baking dish on a sheet tray to catch any overflow. This keeps your oven clean and avoids burning sugar on the bottom.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
This apple crumble recipe is already delicious on its own, but a few extras can take it to the next level.
Classic Comfort
Serve warm with a big scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of fresh whipped cream. The contrast between hot and cold makes each bite better.
Add a Sweet Drizzle
Pour a little homemade caramel sauce over the top for extra indulgence. It pairs beautifully with the cinnamon-spiced apples.
Boost the Crunch
Sprinkle toasted pecans or walnuts on top right before serving. They add texture and a nutty flavor that works well with the crumble topping.
Make It Breakfast-Ready
Enjoy a scoop of leftover apple crumble over Greek yogurt. It’s a quick and cozy breakfast that still feels like a treat.
Storing, Freezing, and Reheating
This apple crumble recipe stores well and tastes just as good the next day. Here’s how to keep it fresh and delicious.
Storing
Let the crumble cool completely before covering. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one day. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to four days.
Freezing Before Baking
Assemble the apple crumble in a freezer-safe baking dish. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to three months. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature while the oven preheats, then bake as usual. You may need to add an extra five to ten minutes.
Freezing After Baking
Allow the crumble to cool fully. Wrap the dish or individual portions tightly and freeze for up to two months. For best results, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To keep the topping crisp, reheat the crumble in the oven at 350°F or 180°C for ten to fifteen minutes. Avoid using the microwave, which can make the topping soggy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do you have to peel apples for crumble?
Peeling the apples is recommended for a smoother texture in this apple crumble recipe. The skins can become tough during baking and may not blend well with the tender filling.
Why is my crumble topping soggy?
A soggy topping usually means too much moisture or not enough baking time. Make sure the butter is measured correctly and that the crumble is baked until golden. Letting it cool helps the topping firm up as well.
Can I make this apple crumble with oats?
Yes, oats are already part of the topping in this recipe. If you want a more textured bite, use whole rolled oats. For a finer crumb, quick oats also work well.
Can I use different fruits in this recipe?
Absolutely. Pears, peaches, berries, or even a mix of fruits can work with this crumble base. Adjust the sugar and baking time depending on the fruit’s moisture level.
How to make apple crumble simple?
Stick to the basics. Use apples, sugar, flour, butter, and cinnamon. Follow the steps in this apple crumble recipe, and you’ll get a satisfying result without the fuss.
Is apple crumble American or British?
Apple crumble has roots in British cuisine. It became popular during World War II when rationing limited access to pastry ingredients. Over time, it found its place in kitchens around the world, including the United States.
What is the difference between apple crisp and apple crumble?
The main difference is in the topping. Apple crumble uses a flour-based topping without nuts or extras. Apple crisp often includes oats and sometimes nuts, giving it a crunchier texture.
How to make a quick crumble?
Use simple ingredients you already have. Cut the apples, mix the topping in one bowl, and bake. This apple crumble recipe comes together in about fifteen minutes of prep.
Final Thoughts
This apple crumble recipe is everything a great dessert should be. It’s easy, fast, and full of rich flavor from real ingredients. The topping is golden and crisp, the apples turn syrupy and soft, and every bite hits the perfect balance between tart and sweet.
Whether you’re making it for a fall gathering, a weekend treat, or just a cozy night in, this recipe delivers every single time. You won’t need another version once you try this one.
If you make this apple crumble recipe, leave a comment and rating below. I’d love to hear which apples you used and how it turned out.
High-Protein Nutrition Specialist and Wellness Advocate with over a decade of experience.
My human-first approach blends science-backed guidance with real-life empathy, shaped by my own journey through fatigue and muscle loss. Today, I help people reclaim strength, energy, and confidence through high-protein nutrition that’s both practical and empowering.
- Anne Newgenthttps://www.goldfoodie.com/author/anne-newgent/
- Anne Newgenthttps://www.goldfoodie.com/author/anne-newgent/
- Anne Newgenthttps://www.goldfoodie.com/author/anne-newgent/
- Anne Newgenthttps://www.goldfoodie.com/author/anne-newgent/
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