Simple Apple Crumble Recipe

When the air feels crisp and you’re craving something sweet and comforting, nothing beats a simple apple crumble. Warm spiced apples hide under a golden topping that crackles with every spoonful. This dessert is cozy, homemade, and perfect for sharing with family after dinner or enjoying by yourself with a cup of tea.

Why You’ll Love This Simple Apple Crumble

This simple apple crumble is the dessert that makes your kitchen smell like autumn. It’s loaded with tender apples, a touch of cinnamon and nutmeg, and just enough sweetness to keep it balanced. The topping bakes into a crisp blanket of buttery oats and sugar, offering the best contrast to the soft fruit beneath. You’ll also love how adaptable it is. Use any apples you have on hand, add more spice if you like, or even drizzle caramel for a festive touch. Best of all, it’s quick to throw together, which makes it the ideal treat when guests stop by or when you just need something sweet at the end of the day.

If you love cozy apple bakes, these Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins make a dreamy breakfast to go with dessert.

Ingredients for Simple Apple Crumble

6 apples, peeled, cored, and chopped
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
½ teaspoon cinnamon
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon flour
1 tablespoon white sugar
Juice of half a lemon

For the topping:
1 cup all purpose flour
1 cup rolled oats
125 grams cold butter, cubed
1 cup light brown sugar
¼ teaspoon salt

You can swap tart apples like Granny Smith for extra zing or use Gala for natural sweetness. A pinch of ground ginger or mixed spice adds even more depth.

Step by Step Instructions

Prepare the Apples

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Place chopped apples in a baking dish. Toss with flour, sugars, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice until the pieces are evenly coated.

Make the Crumble Topping

In a mixing bowl combine flour, oats, brown sugar, and salt. Add the cold butter cubes and use your fingertips to rub it together until the mixture looks like chunky breadcrumbs. Those bigger lumps will turn into golden crunchy bites.

Assemble and Bake

Spread the apples evenly in your dish. Sprinkle the topping over the apples until they’re completely covered. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, until the crumble is golden and crisp with bubbling apples beneath. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving so the juices settle.

Try serving your crumble alongside Air Fryer Apple Fritters for the ultimate apple lover’s spread.

Tips for the Best Apple Crumble

If the top browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil halfway through baking. Adjust sweetness depending on the apples you choose. Tart apples may need a little more sugar while sweet ones need less. Always keep the butter cold so your topping stays crisp. Don’t overmix the topping because clumps make the texture better.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the crumble warm with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream for a creamy contrast. Custard gives a classic touch while whipped cream keeps things light. For a holiday spin, drizzle caramel sauce or sprinkle chopped nuts. A hot cup of coffee or tea makes it feel like the perfect cozy finish.

This Apple Crumb Cake with Cinnamon is another warm treat that tastes just like fall.

Storage and Make Ahead Options

Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place the dish back in the oven for 10 to 15 minutes so the topping regains its crunch. This dessert also freezes beautifully. You can freeze it fully baked or store the apple filling and topping separately until you’re ready to bake.

FAQ About Simple Apple Crumble

Final Thoughts

This simple apple crumble is one of those timeless desserts that feels like home. With tender spiced apples and a buttery crisp topping, it’s a treat that never goes out of style. Bake it for Sunday dinner, holiday gatherings, or just because you want something sweet and cozy. Try it your way with extra spices or caramel drizzle, then share it with the people you love. And when you do, let me know how yours turns out.

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