Mary Berry Apple and Blackberry Crumble Recipe

The Mary Berry Apple and Blackberry Crumble is a comforting and delicious dessert that combines the sweet and tart flavors of apples and blackberries with a crisp, buttery crumble topping. This British classic is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a special gathering. The simplicity of the ingredients and the ease of preparation make this a go-to dessert that’s always a crowd-pleaser.

What Is Mary Berry Apple and Blackberry Crumble?

Mary Berry Apple and Blackberry Crumble is a traditional British dessert made with juicy apples and sweet-tart blackberries, topped with a golden, crumbly layer of butter, flour, and sugar. The fruit is cooked down to a soft, flavorful base, while the crumble topping adds a satisfying crunch. Serve it warm with custard, cream, or ice cream for the ultimate treat.

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Why You Should Try This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry basics and seasonal fruits.
• Comforting and Delicious: Perfect for a warm, cozy dessert.
• Quick to Prepare: Minimal prep time and easy to bake.
• Versatile: Pairs well with ice cream, cream, or custard.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for family dinners, holidays, or weekend treats.

Ingredients Needed to Make Mary Berry Apple and Blackberry Crumble

To make 6 servings, gather the following ingredients:

For the Fruit Filling:

• 4 large apples, peeled, cored, and sliced: A mix of cooking apples like Bramley and sweet apples works well.
• 200g (1 ½ cups) fresh blackberries: Adds a tart and sweet contrast to the apples.
• 50g (¼ cup) caster sugar: Sweetens the fruit mixture.
• 1 tbsp lemon juice: This helps balance the sweetness and prevents the apples from browning.

For the Crumble Topping:

• 175g (1 ½ cups) plain flour: Forms the base of the crumble.
• 100g (½ cup) unsalted butter, chilled and cubed: Gives the topping a rich, buttery flavor.
• 75g (⅓ cup) demerara sugar: Adds sweetness and crunch to the crumble.
• 50g (⅓ cup) rolled oats (optional): For added texture in the crumble.

Equipment

You’ll need the following equipment to make Mary Berry Apple and Blackberry Crumble:

• Mixing bowls: For preparing the crumble topping.
• Baking dish: A medium-sized dish to bake the crumble.
• Peeler and corer: For prepping the apples.
• Spoon or spatula: For mixing and layering the ingredients.
• Oven: For baking the crumble.

Instructions to Make Mary Berry Apple and Blackberry Crumble

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).

Step 2: Prepare the Fruit Filling

• In a mixing bowl, toss the apple slices with 1 tbsp lemon juice and 50g caster sugar.
• Place the apples evenly in the bottom of a medium baking dish.
• Scatter the blackberries on top of the apples, distributing them evenly.

Step 3: Make the Crumble Topping

• In a large bowl, mix the plain flour and demerara sugar.
• Rub the cubed butter into the flour and sugar mixture using your fingertips until it resembles coarse breadcrumbs.
• Stir in the rolled oats (if using) for extra texture.

Step 4: Assemble the Crumble

• Sprinkle the crumble mixture evenly over the fruit filling, making sure all the fruit is covered.
• Gently press the crumble down with the back of a spoon to compact it slightly.

Step 5: Bake the Crumble

• Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the fruit is bubbling around the edges.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

• Remove the crumble from the oven and allow it to cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.
• Serve warm with custard, ice cream, or double cream for an indulgent dessert.

What Goes Well with Mary Berry Apple and Blackberry Crumble?

This crumble pairs beautifully with the following accompaniments:

• Custard: A classic pairing that adds richness and warmth.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: Cold, creamy ice cream contrasts perfectly with the warm crumble.
• Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, whipped cream complements the fruit filling.
• Double Cream: Pour over the crumble for a decadent finish.
• Greek Yogurt: Adds a tangy, creamy element to balance the sweetness.
• Honey Drizzle: A light drizzle of honey enhances the fruit’s natural sweetness.

Expert Tips for Making the Best Mary Berry Apple and Blackberry Crumble

To ensure your Mary Berry Apple and Blackberry Crumble comes out perfect every time, follow these tips:

• Use a Mix of Apples: Combining sweet and tart apples adds depth of flavor to the filling.
• Keep the Butter Cold: Cold butter helps create a crumbly, crunchy topping.
• Don’t Overmix the Crumble: The topping should remain slightly chunky to get that perfect crumbly texture.
• Add Oats for Texture: Rolled oats add an extra crunch and nutty flavor to the topping.
• Check for Doneness: The crumble is ready when the topping is golden brown and the fruit is bubbling at the edges.

Easy Variations of Mary Berry Apple and Blackberry Crumble

Want to put your own twist on the classic crumble? Try these variations:

• Nutty Crumble: Add chopped nuts like almonds or pecans to the topping for a crunchy texture.
• Spiced Crumble: Mix in cinnamon, nutmeg, or ground ginger to the fruit filling for a warming flavor.
• Gluten-Free Crumble: Replace the plain flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
• Mixed Berry Crumble: Use a combination of raspberries, strawberries, and blueberries along with the apples.
• Crumble Bars: Turn the recipe into bars by pressing the crumble topping down more firmly and letting it cool completely before slicing.

Best Practices to Store Mary Berry Apple and Blackberry Crumble

To store leftover crumble properly, follow these tips:

• Room Temperature: Store covered at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Refrigeration: Keep the crumble in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Freeze the baked crumble for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.

Best Practices to Reheat Mary Berry Apple and Blackberry Crumble

To reheat the crumble and keep it delicious:

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 160°C (320°F) and reheat the crumble for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: For individual servings, microwave on medium heat for 30-40 seconds.

How Can I Make Mary Berry Apple and Blackberry Crumble Healthier?

For a healthier version of this crumble, try these simple swaps:

• Reduce Sugar: Lower the sugar content in the filling and crumble topping.
• Whole Wheat Flour: Use whole wheat flour instead of plain flour for added fiber.
• Coconut Oil: Replace the butter with coconut oil for a dairy-free alternative.
• Add Seeds: Incorporate chia seeds or flaxseeds into the topping for extra nutrients.
• Use Honey or Maple Syrup: Sweeten the fruit filling naturally with honey or maple syrup instead of sugar.

Nutrition Value (per serving)

• Calories: 320
• Fat: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Protein: 3g
• Fiber: 6g
• Sugar: 25g

FAQs

Why is my apple crumble not crunchy?

Your apple crumble may not be crunchy if the butter is too warm or the topping is overmixed, making it more like a dough. To ensure a crunchy crumble, use cold butter and mix until the topping resembles coarse breadcrumbs. Baking it at the right temperature also helps achieve a golden, crisp texture.

What’s the difference between apple pie and apple crumble?

The main difference between apple pie and apple crumble is the crust. Apple pie has a pastry crust on the bottom (and often on top), while apple crumble features a fruit filling topped with a crumbly mixture made from flour, butter, and sugar, without any pastry.

What is the crumble on apple crumble made of?

The crumble topping is typically made from a mixture of flour, butter, and sugar. Some variations may include oats, nuts, or spices to add texture and flavor. The butter is rubbed into the dry ingredients to create a crumbly texture.

How do I get my crumble crunchy?

To get a crunchy crumble, make sure to use cold butter when mixing it with the flour and sugar. Avoid overmixing so that the topping stays chunky. Adding oats or nuts to the topping can also increase crunchiness. Bake at the recommended temperature to ensure the topping crisps up without burning.

What is the secret to good crumble?

The secret to a good crumble is using cold butter and lightly mixing it with the flour and sugar to create a crumbly texture. For added flavor and texture, you can incorporate oats, nuts, or spices. Baking at the right temperature and ensuring the topping is spread evenly over the fruit are key steps for a perfect result.

Why put baking powder in crumble topping?

Baking powder in crumble topping can help make it lighter and slightly more airy. It encourages a bit of rise in the topping, giving it a softer yet still crisp texture, instead of being too dense. However, it’s optional and not always necessary for a good crumble.

Can I use frozen fruit for Mary Berry Apple and Blackberry Crumble?

Yes, you can use frozen fruit for this crumble. There’s no need to thaw the fruit beforehand; just add it straight to the dish. However, you may need to slightly increase the baking time to account for the extra moisture released by the frozen fruit.

How do I stop my crumble topping from being soggy?

To prevent a soggy crumble topping, make sure the butter is cold when mixing it with the flour and sugar. This ensures a crumbly texture. Also, avoid overmixing, as the topping should remain light and chunky. Baking the crumble in the middle of the oven will also help crisp up the topping.

Can I make Mary Berry Apple and Blackberry Crumble in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the crumble in advance. Assemble the fruit filling and topping, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You can also bake it ahead of time, cool it, and reheat it in the oven when ready to serve.

How long does Apple and Blackberry Crumble last in the fridge?

Apple and Blackberry Crumble will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 5 days. Store it in an airtight container and reheat individual portions in the oven or microwave when ready to enjoy.

Final Words

The Mary Berry Apple and Blackberry Crumble Recipe is the perfect blend of sweet and tart fruit paired with a buttery, crumbly topping. This easy-to-make dessert is a British classic that’s sure to impress, whether served at a family dinner or a special gathering. With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this crumble is a fantastic way to enjoy seasonal fruits and a cozy, comforting treat. Serve it warm with your favorite accompaniment, and enjoy the ultimate comfort dessert!

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