Simple Apple Crumble (Apple Crisp)
If you’re looking for a cozy dessert that warms your heart and fills your home with delightful aromas, the Simple Apple Crumble (Apple Crisp) is just the thing! This recipe has been a family favorite for years, perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings. There’s something so comforting about baked apples topped with a crisp, buttery crumble. It’s a dish that brings everyone together, whether you’re serving it up after Sunday dinner or enjoying it on a chilly evening.
What makes this dessert truly special is its simplicity. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, you can whip up a warm treat that tastes like it came straight from Grandma’s oven. Plus, the smell of cinnamon and apples baking is enough to make anyone feel at home!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: This recipe takes just 15 minutes of prep time! You can have it in the oven before you know it.
- Family-Friendly: Everyone loves apple crumble! It’s a dessert that appeals to both kids and adults alike.
- Make Ahead Option: You can prepare the apple filling ahead of time and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
- Deliciously Versatile: Serve it warm with vanilla ice cream or custard for an extra touch of indulgence!

Ingredients You’ll Need
This Simple Apple Crumble (Apple Crisp) uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Filling
- 6 apples
- ½ tsp grated nutmeg (or as needed)
- ½ tsp cinnamon (or as needed)
- 2 Tbsp brown sugar
- 1 Tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 Tbsp white sugar
- Juice of half a lemon
For the Crumble Topping
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (substitute for self-raising flour if preferred)
- 1 cup porridge oat
- 125 g butter (cold or melted; I prefer cold butter)
- 1 cup light brown sugar (or as needed)
- ¼ tsp salt (a pinch enhances the sweetness)
Variations
The beauty of this Simple Apple Crumble (Apple Crisp) is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these variations:
- Add berries: Toss in some fresh or frozen berries for a burst of color and flavor.
- Change the fruit: Swap out apples for pears or peaches for a different fruity twist.
- Nuts for crunch: Mix in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans into the crumble topping for added texture.
- Spice it up: Experiment with spices like ginger or cardamom to give it a unique flavor.
How to Make Simple Apple Crumble (Apple Crisp)
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 180C/375F. This ensures your crumble bakes evenly and gets that lovely golden crust.
Step 2: Prepare the Apples
Peel, core, and chop the apples into bite-sized pieces. Transfer them into your baking dish. In this step, add the all-purpose flour, sugars, cinnamon, nutmeg, and half of the lemon juice. Mixing these ingredients together enhances the flavors of the apples while adding some sweetness.
Step 3: Make the Crumble Topping
In another bowl, combine oats, flour, brown sugar, cold butter, and a pinch of salt. Use your fingers to rub everything together until it resembles breadcrumbs. Don’t worry if there are some chunks; they add great texture!
Step 4: Assemble Your Dessert
Sprinkle the crumble topping generously over the prepared apple filling. This layer will create that delicious crispy top we all love when baked.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place your dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 35 to 40 minutes. Keep an eye on it – you’re looking for that perfect crispy golden topping and bubbling apple filling!
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Once baked, remove your apple crumble from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes – if you can resist! Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or custard drizzled on top for an extra treat.
Enjoy making this Simple Apple Crumble (Apple Crisp)! It’s sure to become one of your go-to desserts whenever you’re craving something sweet and comforting.
Pro Tips for Making Simple Apple Crumble (Apple Crisp)
Making the perfect apple crumble is all about technique and a little love! Here are some tips to ensure your dessert turns out amazing every time.
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Choose the right apples: Opt for a mix of tart and sweet apples, such as Granny Smith and Honeycrisp. This combination adds depth to the flavor and balances sweetness with a zingy bite.
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Don’t overmix the crumble topping: When combining the ingredients for the topping, be gentle. Overmixing can lead to a dense topping; you’re aiming for that delightful crumbly texture that melts in your mouth.
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Let it rest before serving: Allowing your crumble to stand for a few minutes after baking lets the juices settle, making it easier to serve and enhancing the flavors.
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Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste. Adding ground ginger or allspice can give your crumble an exciting twist!
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Use seasonal fruits: While this recipe focuses on apples, you can mix in seasonal fruits like pears or berries. This not only changes up the flavor but also adds nutrition and color.
How to Serve Simple Apple Crumble (Apple Crisp)
Serving your simple apple crumble is just as delightful as making it! Here are some ideas to elevate its presentation and enjoyment.
Garnishes
- Whipped coconut cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream brings richness without dairy, adding a deliciously creamy contrast.
- Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some toasted walnuts or almonds on top before serving for an added crunch and nuttiness that complements the apples beautifully.
Side Dishes
- Vanilla ice cream: A classic pairing, vanilla ice cream provides a creamy contrast to the warm apple crisp. The cold vs. warm sensation is simply irresistible!
- Custard: This rich sauce enhances the sweet flavors of the apple crumble while adding a lovely creaminess that many people enjoy.
- Caramel sauce: Drizzle some homemade or store-bought caramel sauce over each serving for an extra layer of indulgence. It’s like giving your dish a sweet hug!
- Fresh fruit salad: A light and refreshing side dish, a fruit salad made with seasonal fruits offers a burst of freshness that balances out the richness of the crumble.
Now that you have all these tips and serving suggestions at your fingertips, it’s time to gather your ingredients and share this heartwarming dessert with family or friends. Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage
This Simple Apple Crumble is perfect for meal prep and can be enjoyed over a few days. Preparing it in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it even more delicious when it’s time to serve. Here’s how to store and preserve this delightful dessert:
Storing Leftovers
- Allow the apple crumble to cool completely before storing.
- Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing
- Cool the apple crumble completely before freezing.
- Wrap the crumble tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container.
- It can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.
Reheating
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- If frozen, let it thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Place the crumble in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil to prevent over-browning.
- Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.
FAQs
Here are some common questions about making this Simple Apple Crumble.
Can I make this Simple Apple Crumble (Apple Crisp) without oats?
Yes! You can substitute the oats with additional flour or use a nut-based topping if you prefer a gluten-free option.
What type of apples are best for Simple Apple Crumble (Apple Crisp)?
For the best flavor and texture, use a mix of tart apples like Granny Smith alongside sweeter varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji. This balance creates a deliciously complex flavor.
How do I know when my apple crumble is done baking?
The crumble is ready when the topping is golden brown and crispy, and you can see the apple filling bubbling around the edges.
Can I add other fruits to my apple crumble?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other fruits like berries or pears for added flavor and variety.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you enjoy making this Simple Apple Crumble! It’s such a warm, comforting dessert that brings joy with every bite. Perfect for chilly evenings or special gatherings, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different spices or fruits; make it your own! Happy baking!
Simple Apple Crumble (Apple Crisp)
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
If you’re in search of a heartwarming dessert that fills your home with the delightful scent of baked apples, look no further than this Simple Apple Crumble (Apple Crisp). With its tender apple filling and a perfectly crisp topping, this dessert is cherished by families for its comforting flavors and ease of preparation. Ready in just over an hour, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. The simplicity of this recipe allows you to enjoy the delicious combination of sweet apples and warm spices, making it a go-to treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 6 apples
- ½ tsp grated nutmeg
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- 2 Tbsp brown sugar
- 1 Tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 Tbsp white sugar
- Juice of half a lemon
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup porridge oats
- 125 g cold butter (or melted)
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- ¼ tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 180C/375F.
- Peel, core, and chop the apples into bite-sized pieces. Combine in a baking dish with flour, sugars, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice.
- In another bowl, mix oats, flour, brown sugar, butter, and salt until crumbly.
- Spread the crumble topping evenly over the apple mixture.
- Bake for 35 to 40 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.
- Let cool slightly before serving with vanilla ice cream or custard.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
