This Easy Apple Crumble is my go-to when I crave a warm and comforting dessert. It brings together soft, cinnamon-scented apples and a golden, buttery crumble topping. The textures are beautifully balanced — tender fruit with a crisp top — and it’s so easy to make with ingredients I already have at home. Whether I’m serving it after a weeknight dinner or to guests at a weekend gathering, this dessert never disappoints.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s quick to prepare and delivers delicious results every time. It’s also versatile — I can swap the apples, tweak the spices, or add extra texture to the topping. It’s the kind of dessert I can make ahead, freeze, or simply throw together at the last minute when I want something sweet and satisfying. Plus, it’s naturally egg-free, nut-free, vegetarian, and pregnancy-friendly.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For The Crumble Topping:

• 300 grams (10½ oz) plain flour

• Pinch of salt

• 175 grams (6 oz) soft brown sugar

• 200 grams (7 oz) unsalted butter, at room temperature and cubed, plus extra for greasing the dish

For The Apple Filling:

• 450 grams (1 lb) apples, peeled, cored, and cut into 1 cm (½ inch) pieces

• 50 grams (2 oz) soft brown sugar

• 1 tablespoon plain flour

• 1 pinch ground cinnamon

Directions

1. I preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C Fan) or Gas Mark 4.

2. In a large mixing bowl, I combine the flour, salt, and brown sugar. I then add a few cubes of butter at a time, rubbing them into the dry ingredients using my fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs.

3. In a separate bowl, I prepare the apple filling by mixing the apple pieces with brown sugar, flour, and ground cinnamon. I stir gently to coat the apples evenly without breaking them apart.

4. I lightly grease a 24 cm (9 inch) ovenproof dish with butter. I spoon the apple mixture into the bottom of the dish and spread it out evenly.

5. I sprinkle the crumble mixture evenly over the top of the apples, covering the fruit completely.

6. I bake the crumble for 40 to 45 minutes until the top is golden brown and the fruit is bubbling at the edges.

7. I let it cool slightly before serving. I love pairing it with thick cream, ice cream, or warm custard.

Servings And Timing

This recipe serves 6 generous portions.
Preparation Time: Less than 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 to 45 minutes
Total Time: Just over 1 hour

Variations

When I want to experiment, I add a handful of rolled oats to the crumble topping for extra crunch and fiber. I also like to mix in chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans when I want a nuttier flavor. If I’m in the mood for something different, I swap out half the apples for pears, or add a few raisins or sultanas to the filling for extra sweetness. Using eating apples gives a firmer bite, while cooking apples like Bramley give a softer, more traditional texture.

Storage/Reheating

If I have leftovers, I store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I use the microwave for speed or pop it in a 160°C oven until hot. I can also freeze the crumble before or after baking. If freezing before baking, I wrap the dish tightly in cling film and foil, then bake from defrosted. For baked leftovers, I freeze portions in microwave-safe containers and reheat them directly in the microwave.

FAQs

Can I Freeze Apple Crumble?

Yes, I freeze apple crumble either before or after baking. If freezing before baking, I wrap it well and freeze for up to 4 months. If already baked, I portion it and freeze it in airtight, microwave-safe containers. I defrost before reheating for the best texture.

What Kind Of Apples Should I Use?

I prefer Bramley apples for a soft and fluffy filling. If I want firmer fruit pieces, I use sweet eating apples like Gala or Braeburn and reduce the sugar slightly since these apples are naturally sweeter.

Why Isn’t My Crumble Topping Crumbly?

This usually happens when the butter is overmixed. I rub the butter in gently until it resembles breadcrumbs. To encourage larger crumbles, I lightly sprinkle cold water over the mixture and stir — this helps form clumps without making it doughy.

Can I Add Oats To The Crumble?

Yes, I often stir in a handful of oats after rubbing in the butter. It adds texture, a nutty flavor, and some extra fiber. Rolled oats work best for this.

Can I Use White Sugar Instead Of Brown Sugar?

Yes, I can use granulated or caster sugar in place of brown sugar. The flavor will be slightly lighter and less caramel-like, but it still works beautifully in both the filling and the crumble topping.

Conclusion

This Easy Apple Crumble is a classic dessert that I always enjoy making and serving. It’s simple, comforting, and endlessly adaptable. Whether I enjoy it fresh from the oven with cream or reheat leftovers later in the week, it always tastes like home.