Name: Apple Crumble
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-486277H3S
Total time: PT-486277H3S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 3/4 cup brown sugar (light or dark); 1 tsp baking powder; 1/4 tsp salt; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 6–7 cups (about 2½ lb) Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, sliced or diced; 1/3 cup granulated sugar (or half brown sugar); 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1 tbsp corn starch or all-purpose flour; 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon; Pinch of salt

Jump to Recipe·Leave a Review

I cherish this apple crumble—a comforting, pantry-friendly dessert bursting with caramelized apple filling and a buttery, crumbly topping. It’s the kind of dish that fills the kitchen with warmth and makes everyone gather around.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how effortlessly this dessert comes together. With only two components—an apple filling and a crumble topping—it’s ready in about 10 minutes of prep time and bakes into something both homely and elegant. I’ve made it so often that even my 12-year-old whips it up in the kitchen independently.

ingredients

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

all purpose flour
brown sugar (light or dark)
baking powder
salt
ground cinnamon
unsalted butter (melted)
Granny Smith apples (about 2½ lb, peeled, cored, sliced or diced—6–7 cups)
granulated sugar (can substitute half with brown sugar)
lemon juice
corn starch or all purpose flour
ground cinnamon
pinch of salt

directions

Preheat the oven to 375 °F (190 °C) and lightly grease an 8- or 9-inch baking dish.
Make the crumble topping: Whisk flour, brown sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon in a bowl. Stir in melted butter until crumbly.
Prepare the apple filling: Toss apples with granulated sugar, lemon juice, corn starch (or flour), salt, and cinnamon in a large bowl.
Spread the apple mixture into the baking dish, then sprinkle crumble topping evenly on top.
Bake for 35–45 minutes until the top is golden and the filling is bubbling.
Let it cool for about 15 minutes before serving—this helps the filling set.

Servings and timing

Servings: 8
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 35–45 minutes
Total time: ~45 minutes

Variations

Toss in half a teaspoon of vanilla extract into the apple mix for extra aromatic warmth.
Mix chopped walnuts or pecans into the crumble for added crunch.
Swirl caramel sauce over the top before serving.
Try leaving the apple peels on for texture and color.
Use a mix of apple varieties (e.g., half Granny Smith, half Honeycrisp) depending on sweetness level.

storage/reheating

Room temperature: Keep covered for up to 2 days.
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container up to 4–5 days.
Freezer: Once cooled, wrap tightly and freeze up to 3 months.
Reheat: Thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm in the oven or microwave until heated through.

FAQs

What kind of apples should I use?

I typically use Granny Smith for tartness or mix with Honeycrisp for sweetness. Almost any variety works.

Can I double the recipe?

Definitely—I double it all the time. I just bake it in a 9×13-inch dish and adjust the baking time if needed.

Do I have to peel the apples?

Nope! I often leave the peel on—just wash them well. It adds texture and nutrient value.

Can I make individual servings?

Yes. I divide the filling and topping into ramekins and bake similarly—watching for a golden top.

What if my topping isn’t crispy enough?

I sometimes pop the baked crumble under the broiler for a minute or so to crisp it up—just watch it carefully to avoid burning.

Conclusion

I adore this apple crumble because it’s simple, flexible, and universally loved. It uses ingredients I always have stocked, comes together in minutes, and satisfies all year round. Whether served warm with ice cream or enjoyed later, it never disappoints. Give it a go—I promise it’ll become a family favorite.