🇬🇧 United Kingdom · Dessert
Classic Apple Crumble with Oat Topping
By eatmundo · July 6, 2026
A comforting British dessert, our Classic Apple Crumble features tender, spiced apples bubbling beneath a golden, crunchy oat and butter topping. Perfect for a chilly evening, it evokes nostalgic warmth and is often served with a generous dollop of custard or vanilla ice cream.
Ingredients
check them off as you prepareHow to Make It
- 1
Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F / Gas Mark 5). Peel, core, and chop 6-8 medium cooking apples (such as Bramley) into 2cm chunks. Place them into an ovenproof dish (approx. 20x25cm) and mix with 75g caster sugar and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon.
- 2
In a large bowl, rub 150g cold, cubed unsalted butter into 200g plain flour with your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs. Don't overwork it, as we want a light, crumbly texture!
- 3
Stir in 75g rolled oats and 50g light brown sugar into the breadcrumb mixture, along with a pinch of salt. This adds extra crunch and a lovely caramel note to the topping.
- 4
Evenly sprinkle the crumble topping over the apples in the dish, ensuring the fruit is completely covered. Pat it down very gently, but don't compress it too much.
- 5
Place the dish on a baking tray (to catch any potential bubbling over) and bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes. The crumble should be beautifully golden brown and the apples underneath visibly bubbling at the edges.
- 6
To check for doneness, gently insert a knife into the crumble; if it goes in easily, the apples are tender. If not, bake for another 5-10 minutes.
- 7
Remove from the oven and let it stand for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the fruit filling to settle. Serve warm with creamy custard, vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of fresh cream for a truly delightful experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which types of apples are best for a Classic Apple Crumble, and should I mix varieties?+
For the best flavor and texture, use a mix of tart and sweet apples like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp or Braeburn. This combination provides a balanced taste and ensures some apples retain their shape while others soften beautifully.
Should I peel the apples for the crumble, and how big should I chop them?+
Peeling is recommended for a smoother texture, though leaving the skin on is fine for added fiber and rustic appeal. Cut the apples into roughly 1/2-inch (1.25 cm) chunks or slices to ensure even cooking and tender results.
How can I tell when my Apple Crumble is perfectly baked, and what's the ideal cooking temperature and time?+
The crumble is ready when the topping is golden brown and crisp, and the apple filling is bubbling around the edges. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 35-45 minutes, or until the apples are tender when pierced with a knife.
How can I prevent the oat topping from becoming soggy or overly hard?+
Ensure your butter is very cold and cut into small pieces when making the topping to create a crumbly texture. Avoid overmixing, as this can develop the gluten and lead to a harder topping; bake until golden and crisp, not burnt.
Mundo Match
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