There’s nothing quite as comforting as a freshly baked apple crumble. With its sweet, tender apples topped with a crisp, buttery crumble, it’s the perfect dessert for busy weeknights, holiday gatherings, or when you simply want a cozy treat. Best of all, this easy apple crumble recipe for busy days requires minimal prep and uses simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Apple Crumble
Quick & Easy: Ready in under an hour.
Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike.
Versatile: Works with different apple varieties and can be served warm or cold.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Can be prepped in advance for stress-free desserts.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For this classic apple crumble recipe, gather the following:
For the filling:
6 medium apples (Granny Smith for tartness or Honeycrisp for sweetness)
2 tbsp lemon juice
½ cup granulated sugar (adjust depending on apple sweetness)
1 tsp ground cinnamon
½ tsp nutmeg (optional)
1 tbsp all-purpose flour or cornstarch (to thicken juices)
For the crumble topping:
1 cup all-purpose flour
½ cup rolled oats
½ cup brown sugar
½ cup unsalted butter (cold and cubed)
Pinch of salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Apples
Peel, core, and slice the apples into thin wedges.
Toss them in a bowl with lemon juice, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and flour.
Transfer the apple mixture into a greased baking dish.
2. Make the Crumble Topping
In another bowl, combine flour, oats, brown sugar, and salt.
Add the cold butter and rub it into the mixture with your fingertips until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Assemble
Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the apples.
Don’t press it down—leave it loose and crumbly for the perfect texture.
4. Bake
Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 35–40 minutes, until the topping is golden brown and the apples are bubbling.
5. Serve
Serve warm with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or custard.
Practical Tips for the Best Apple Crumble
Mix Apple Varieties: Combine tart (Granny Smith) and sweet (Fuji or Honeycrisp) apples for balanced flavor.
Gluten-Free Option: Use almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend.
Nutty Twist: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the crumble topping for extra crunch.
Make Ahead: Assemble and refrigerate before baking. Bake just before serving for freshness.
Storage & Reheating
Fridge: Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze unbaked apple crumble (well-covered) for up to 3 months.
Reheat: Warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10–15 minutes to re-crisp the topping.
Conclusion
This easy apple crumble recipe for busy days is a must-have in your dessert rotation. Simple to make, endlessly customizable, and absolutely delicious, it’s the kind of recipe you’ll come back to again and again. Whether you’re cooking for your family, entertaining guests, or just treating yourself, apple crumble delivers comfort in every bite.
So, grab those apples sitting on your counter, whip up this crumble, and enjoy a warm, golden dessert that feels like home. 🍏✨