The beauty of this dessert is how its flavors deepen and meld after a night in the fridge. Making your apple cinnamon crumble ahead means you’ll have a ready-made treat that tastes even better the next day. It’s the kind of simple magic that turns a regular Tuesday into something a little sweeter. I think that’s the heart of great home baking—dishes that are generous with flavor but forgiving on time, the kind you can pull together with a bowl, a spoon, and a few pantry staples.
This Apple Cinnamon Crumble is exactly that. It’s a humble, cozy dessert that feels like a warm hug. The tender, spiced apples bubbling beneath a buttery, oat-strewn topping is a combination that never gets old. It’s one of those easy yummy desserts that works just as well for a casual family dinner as it does for a potluck with friends. Simple ingredients, warm memories. This recipe is all about comfort food, made easy.
Table of Contents
Apple Cinnamon Crumble
A humble, cozy dessert that feels like a warm hug. Tender, spiced apples bubble beneath a buttery, oat-strewn topping for a simple, forgiving treat that tastes even better the next day.
- Prep Time: 20min
- Cook Time: 40min
- Total Time: 1h
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: dessert
- Method: baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- For the Apple Filling:
- 6-7 medium apples (about 2 lbs), peeled, cored, and sliced ¼-inch thick (e.g., Granny Smith and Honeycrisp)
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- For the Oat Crumble Topping:
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup packed light brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cubed
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, toss sliced apples with lemon juice and vanilla extract.
- In a small bowl, whisk together granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon flour, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and nutmeg. Sprinkle over apples and toss to coat. Let sit while making topping.
- For the topping: In a medium bowl, combine oats, ¾ cup flour, brown sugar, ½ teaspoon cinnamon, and salt.
- Add cold, cubed butter. Use fingers, a pastry cutter, or a fork to work butter into dry ingredients until mixture resembles coarse crumbs with some pea-sized butter bits.
- Pour apple mixture into a 9-inch pie dish or 9x9-inch baking dish. Scrape all juices from bowl.
- Evenly sprinkle oat crumble topping over apples, covering completely. Do not press down.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, until topping is deep golden brown and filling is bubbling vigorously at edges.
- Let cool for at least 20-30 minutes before serving to allow filling to thicken.
Notes
Use cold butter for a crisp topping. Letting the crumble cool is essential for the filling to set. Can be assembled a day ahead and refrigerated before baking. For gluten-free, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. For dairy-free, use cold solid coconut oil or plant-based butter.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 38
- Sodium: 80
- Fat: 12
- Saturated Fat: 7
- Unsaturated Fat: 4
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 55
- Fiber: 4
- Protein: 3
- Cholesterol: 30
Ingredients List
Apple Cinnamon Crumble starts with a short, straightforward list. You likely have most of these ingredients in your kitchen right now, which makes this one of the most accessible baking ideas for a spontaneous sweet craving.
For the Apple Filling:
- 6–7 medium apples (about 2 lbs), peeled, cored, and sliced ¼-inch thick (I love a mix of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp)
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Oat Crumble Topping:
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup packed light brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cubed
Smart Swaps:
- Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for both the tablespoon in the filling and the cup in the topping.
- Dairy-Free: Swap the butter for an equal amount of cold, solid coconut oil or a plant-based butter stick.
- Sugar: You can reduce the granulated sugar in the filling to ¼ cup if your apples are very sweet. For the topping, coconut sugar works in place of brown sugar.
Timing
One of the best parts of this apple cinnamon crumble recipe is how little active time it requires. It’s perfect for those evenings when you want something homemade but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
That’s about 20% faster than baking a pie from scratch, with all the same cozy, satisfying rewards. You can even prep the components ahead and just pop it in the oven when you’re ready.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Creating this apple cinnamon crumble is a simple, almost therapeutic process. Follow these steps for a dessert that’s perfectly balanced—not too sweet, with a topping that’s gloriously crisp and golden.
1. Prepare the Filling. Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, toss the sliced apples with lemon juice and vanilla extract. In a small bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon of flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Sprinkle this mixture over the apples and toss until every slice is evenly coated. Let this sit while you make the topping; the sugar will start to pull out the apple juices, creating a lovely syrup.
2. Make the Crumble Topping. In a separate bowl, combine the oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter. Using your fingers, a pastry cutter, or even a fork, work the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with some pea-sized bits of butter remaining. Those little butter pieces are the secret to a perfectly crunchy, flaky topping.
3. Assemble and Bake. Pour the apple mixture into a 9-inch pie dish, 9x9-inch baking dish, or a 10-inch cast iron skillet. Spread it into an even layer, making sure to scrape all the sugary juices from the bowl. Evenly sprinkle the oat crumble topping over the apples, covering them completely. Don’t press it down—let it stay loose and craggy. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the topping is a deep golden brown and the filling is bubbling vigorously around the edges.
4. Cool and Serve. This is the hardest part! Let the apple cinnamon crumble cool for at least 20–30 minutes before serving. This allows the bubbling fruit filling to thicken slightly so it doesn’t run everywhere when you scoop it. The wait is worth it, I promise.
Nutritional Information
A serving of this homemade apple cinnamon crumble (based on 8 servings) provides approximately:
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 38g
- Protein: 3g
Apples are a great source of dietary fiber and vitamin C. Using whole rolled oats in the topping adds more fiber and complex carbohydrates, making this a more satisfying treat than desserts made with only refined flour. It’s a cozy indulgence with a bit of wholesome goodness baked right in.
Equipment Needed
You don’t need any fancy gadgets for this apple cinnamon crumble. Regular kitchen, regular time, great results.
- A 9-inch pie dish, 9x9-inch baking dish, or 10-inch oven-safe skillet (like cast iron)
- Two mixing bowls (one large, one medium)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- A vegetable peeler and paring knife (or an apple corer/slicer for speed)
- A fork or pastry cutter for the topping
That’s it! If you love the simplicity of dump cakes, where you just layer ingredients and bake, you’ll appreciate the straightforward method here. For another fantastic fruit-forward, easy dessert, check out my Strawberry Peach Dump Cake.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This apple cinnamon crumble earns a permanent spot in your recipe rotation for so many reasons.
- Pantry-Friendly: It’s made with staples you likely already have. No special trips to the store required.
- Incredibly Versatile: Serve it warm, at room temp, or cold. Eat it for dessert, breakfast (yes, really), or a snack.
- Perfect for Prep: You can assemble the entire crumble a day ahead, cover, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. The flavors only get better.
- Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: It’s a universally loved dessert. The combination of soft, spiced fruit and crunchy topping is pure, timeless comfort.
- Minimal Cleanup: One bowl for the filling, one for the topping, one dish to bake. It’s a win for any night of the week.
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
Want to lighten up this classic apple cinnamon crumble? Here are some simple swaps that keep all the flavor.
- Gluten-Free: As mentioned, use a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure your oats are certified gluten-free.
- Reduced Sugar: Cut the granulated sugar in the filling to 3 tablespoons and use ½ cup of brown sugar in the topping. The natural sweetness of the apples will shine through.
- Whole Grain: Substitute the all-purpose flour in the topping with whole wheat flour or spelt flour for added nutrients and a nuttier flavor.
- Dairy-Free/Vegan: Use cold, solid coconut oil or a plant-based butter. The crumble will be just as deliciously crisp.
- Added Protein: Stir ¼ cup of chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans are perfect) into the crumble topping before baking.
Serving Suggestions
A scoop of warm apple cinnamon crumble is glorious on its own, but a few simple additions can make it feel extra special.
- The Classic: A generous scoop of vanilla ice cream is non-negotiable for me. The hot-and-cold contrast is sublime.
- Cozy & Creamy: A dollop of freshly whipped cream or a drizzle of heavy cream is wonderfully simple.
- For Breakfast: Serve a modest portion at room temperature with a spoonful of Greek yogurt for a delightful weekend treat.
- Get Fancy: Drizzle with a simple salted caramel sauce or a bit of warm bourbon sauce for a grown-up twist.
- Mini Desserts: For a fun individual presentation, divide the filling and topping among four 6-ounce ramekins and bake for 25–30 minutes. Perfect for dinner parties!
This dessert pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. If you enjoy fruit-based baked goods, you might also love my Rhubarb Crumble Bars for another take on the fruit-and-crumble combination.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
A few small tips can make the difference between a good apple cinnamon crumble and a great one.
- Using Mushy Apples: Choose firm, tart apples that hold their shape when baked, like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn. They provide the perfect texture and balance the sweetness.
- Warm Butter: Your butter must be cold. If it melts into the flour before baking, you’ll get a dense, greasy topping instead of a light, crisp one. I even chill my bowl sometimes.
- Over-Mixing the Topping: Stop when you have a crumbly mixture with visible bits of butter. Overworking it will create a paste-like dough.
- Skipping the Cool Time: Scooping into a piping-hot crumble will result in a soupy mess. Letting it rest allows the juices to thicken so every scoop is perfect.
- Baking in a Too-Small Dish: If your baking dish is overcrowded, the filling will steam instead of bake, and the topping won’t crisp properly. Use the recommended size.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
This apple cinnamon crumble stores beautifully, making it a fantastic make-ahead dessert.
- Leftovers: Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or transfer leftovers to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 30-60 seconds until warm. To restore the topping’s crunch, reheat servings in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes.
- Freezer Prep: You can freeze the unbaked assembled crumble! Prepare it in a freezer-safe baking dish, wrap it tightly in a double layer of plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
- Make-Ahead: The filling and topping can be prepared separately and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours before assembling and baking. This is a huge weeknight time-saver.
Conclusion
At its core, this Apple Cinnamon Crumble is about more than just dessert. It’s about creating a moment of warmth and sweetness with minimal fuss. It’s food that feels like home. Whether you’re serving it after a Sunday roast or just because you deserve a treat on a Wednesday, this recipe delivers every time.
I hope this becomes a go-to in your kitchen, a reliable friend for when you need something comforting and delicious. Give it a try, and let me know how it turned out in the comments below! Don’t forget to tag @StackSipSnack on Pinterest so I can see your beautiful creations.
If you’re looking for more simple, fruit-filled baking ideas, be sure to explore my Strawberry Lemon Dump Cake or this lovely Lemon Blueberry Loaf Cake. Happy baking.
FAQs about Apple Cinnamon Crumble
What is the difference between apple crisp and apple crumble?
The main difference lies in the topping. Apple crumble has a streusel topping, typically made with flour, butter, and sugar, creating a crumbly texture. Apple crisp usually incorporates oats in the topping, resulting in a crispier texture.
How do you keep apple crumble from being soggy?
To prevent a soggy apple crumble, toss the apples with a thickener like cornstarch or tapioca starch to absorb excess moisture. Also, avoid overcrowding the baking dish and ensure the crumble topping is evenly distributed.
What apples are best for crumble?
Firm apples that hold their shape during baking are best. Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, Braeburn, and Fuji apples are all excellent choices for apple cinnamon crumble.
Can you freeze apple crumble after baking?
Yes, you can freeze baked apple cinnamon crumble. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or store it in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Reheat in the oven until warmed through.
How do you thicken apple filling for crumble?
You can thicken apple filling by adding a thickening agent such as cornstarch, tapioca starch, or flour. Mix the starch with sugar before tossing it with the apples to prevent clumping.
What is a good topping for apple crumble?
A classic crumble topping typically consists of flour, butter, and sugar. Variations can include brown sugar for a caramel flavor, oats for a crispier texture, or nuts for added crunch. Spices like cinnamon and nutmeg are also common additions.
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