Welcome to a comforting twist on a classic dessert: Maple Pecan Apple Crumble. This recipe combines the warmth of baked apples with the rich flavors of maple syrup and pecans for a dessert that feels like a hug in a bowl. Perfect for cozy fall evenings or any time you're craving something sweet and homey.
Apples: The star of the dish, they provide natural sweetness and a soft texture when baked. Choose firm varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best results.
Maple Syrup: Adds a rich, caramel-like sweetness that complements the apples perfectly. It's what gives this crumble its unique twist.
Cinnamon and Nutmeg: These spices enhance the flavor of the apples, adding warmth and depth to the dish.
All-purpose Flour: Forms the base of the crumble topping, giving it structure and substance.
Rolled Oats: Provide a chewy texture and a hearty element to the crumble, making it more interesting.
Brown Sugar: Adds sweetness and a hint of molasses flavor to the topping.
Unsalted Butter: When melted and mixed with the dry ingredients, it creates a rich, crumbly texture perfect for topping.
Pecans: Offer a nutty crunch that pairs beautifully with the other flavors. They also add a delightful texture contrast.
Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the other flavors without being noticeable.
This Maple Pecan Apple Crumble is divine on its own but even better with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a bit of tang, try serving it with a spoonful of Greek yogurt. It's a versatile dessert that can also be enjoyed at breakfast with a cup of tea.
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your crumble starts baking as soon as you pop it in the oven, giving you that perfect golden topping.
In a large mixing bowl, combine your peeled and sliced apples with the maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Make sure each apple slice is well coated; this mixture will flavor the fruit as it bakes.
Next, grab another bowl and mix together the flour, oats, brown sugar, and chopped pecans. This will be your crumble topping.
Pour the melted butter over your dry topping ingredients. Stir until everything is combined and you have a crumbly texture. This buttered mix will bake up into a deliciously crisp top layer.
Now, spread your apple mixture evenly in a baking dish. Make sure the apples are in a single layer so they cook evenly.
Sprinkle your crumble topping generously over the apples, covering them completely. This ensures every bite has that lovely crunch.
Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. You'll know it's done when the topping is golden brown and the apples are tender.
Once baked, let it cool slightly before serving. This not only prevents burns but also lets the flavors meld together beautifully.