If you're craving a cozy dessert that fills your kitchen with the aroma of fall, this Traditional Apple Crumble is just what you need. With its tender apples and a perfectly crunchy topping, it's a timeless classic that's hard to resist.
The star of this dish is, of course, the apples. You'll want to use a firm variety like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, which hold their shape well during baking. The granulated sugar not only sweetens the apples but also helps in drawing out their juices as they bake. All-purpose flour and quick-cooking oats form the base of the crumble topping, with the oats adding a touch of wholesome texture. Unsalted butter binds the dry ingredients together, creating those lovely golden clumps on top. Finally, ground cinnamon and nutmeg add warmth and depth to every bite.
This apple crumble pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a bit of extra indulgence, drizzle some caramel sauce over the top. It's also fantastic served warm alongside a savory dish like roasted pork for a sweet and savory contrast.
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that everything cooks evenly once you pop it in. Grab a medium-sized bowl and toss the sliced apples with 1/4 cup of sugar and 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon. Mix it well so every slice is coated, then spread them out in a 9x13 inch baking dish.
In another bowl, it's time to make the crumble topping. Combine the flour, oats, remaining sugar, the rest of the cinnamon, nutmeg, and butter. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to mix until it resembles coarse crumbs — this texture is key for a good crumble.
Sprinkle the crumble mixture evenly over the apples in your baking dish. Make sure to cover as much of the apple surface as possible; this ensures an even bake and a nice crunch in every bite. Place it in the preheated oven and let it bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the topping turns a lovely golden brown and the apples are tender when pierced with a fork.
Once baked, take it out and let it cool slightly. This allows the juices to settle and makes it easier to serve.