Nigel Slater Apple Crumble Recipe

Nigel Slater’s Apple Crumble is a comforting and rustic dessert that combines tender, caramelized apples with a buttery, crumbly topping. This classic British dessert is quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for family meals or cozy gatherings. Serve it warm with cream, custard, or ice cream for an extra touch of indulgence.

What is Nigel Slater’s Apple Crumble?

Nigel Slater’s Apple Crumble is a simple yet delicious dessert featuring sliced apples coated with sugar and spices, topped with a buttery crumble. The result is a golden, crunchy topping with a soft, sweet apple filling underneath.

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Why You Should Try This Recipe

• Classic Comfort Dessert: Warm, sweet, and satisfying.
• Perfect Balance of Flavors: The tartness of the apples complements the buttery topping.
• Quick and Simple: Uses basic ingredients and minimal prep time.
• Customizable Topping: Easily adaptable to include nuts or oats.
• Family-Friendly: A favorite for all ages and perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients Needed to Make Nigel Slater’s Apple Crumble

For the Filling

• 4-5 Large Apples (Granny Smith, Bramley, or Honeycrisp): Choose firm, tart apples for the best texture.
• 3 tbsp Caster Sugar: Adds sweetness to balance the tart apples.
• 1/2 tsp Ground Cinnamon (optional): Adds warmth and a hint of spice.

For the Crumble Topping

• 1 cup All-Purpose Flour: Forms the base of the crumble.
• 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (cold and cubed): For a rich, crumbly texture.
• 1/3 cup Light Brown Sugar: Adds sweetness and caramel flavor.
• Pinch of Salt: Enhances the flavors in the crumble.
• Optional Toppings: 1/4 cup rolled oats or chopped nuts (such as almonds or pecans) for added texture.

Equipment Needed

• 9-Inch Baking Dish: For assembling and baking the crumble.
• Mixing Bowls: For preparing the filling and topping.
• Pastry Cutter or Fingers: For making the crumble topping.
• Peeler and Knife: For preparing the apples.

Instructions to Make Nigel Slater’s Apple Crumble

Step 1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a 9-inch baking dish lightly with butter.

Step 2. Prepare the Apple Filling

Peel, core, and slice the apples into thin wedges. Place the apple slices in a mixing bowl and toss with the caster sugar and ground cinnamon (if using) until well-coated. Transfer the apple mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

Step 3. Make the Crumble Topping

In a separate bowl, combine the flour, cold cubed butter, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt. Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, rub the butter into the flour and sugar until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs. If desired, stir in rolled oats or chopped nuts for extra texture.

Step 4. Assemble the Crumble

Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the apples, ensuring all the fruit is covered. Do not press down on the topping; it should be loose to create a crumbly texture.

Step 5. Bake the Crumble

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apple filling is bubbling around the edges.

Step 6. Serve and Enjoy

Allow the apple crumble to cool slightly before serving. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or a drizzle of custard for the perfect dessert.

What Goes Well With Apple Crumble

• Vanilla Ice Cream – A creamy contrast to the warm crumble.
• Custard – A classic British pairing for added richness.
• Whipped Cream – Adds lightness and creaminess.
• Caramel Sauce – Drizzle over the top for extra sweetness.
• Fresh Berries – Adds a refreshing burst of flavor.

Expert Tips for Making the Best Apple Crumble

For the best results, keep these tips in mind:

• Use Firm Apples – Firm, tart apples hold their shape better during baking.
• Keep the Butter Cold – Cold butter helps create a crumbly texture in the topping.
• Add Texture – Oats or nuts make the crumble topping more interesting.
• Avoid Pressing the Crumble – Leave the topping loose for a perfect crumbly texture.
• Watch for Bubbling Fruit – The filling should bubble around the edges to ensure the apples are tender.

Easy Variations of Nigel Slater’s Apple Crumble

Try these variations for unique flavors:

• Add Pears – Replace half the apples with pears for a different flavor.
• Add Ginger – Mix in a pinch of ground ginger with the cinnamon.
• Use Demerara Sugar – Adds a crunchier texture to the topping.
• Add Cranberries – Fresh or dried cranberries add tartness and color.
• Top with Coconut Flakes – Adds a tropical twist.

Best Practices to Store Apple Crumble

• Refrigerate Leftovers – Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freeze for Longer Storage – Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Reheat in Oven – For best results, reheat in the oven to restore the crisp topping.

Best Practices to Reheat Apple Crumble

• Oven Reheat – Reheat in a preheated oven at 160°C (325°F) for 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave Reheat – Heat individual portions in the microwave for about 30 seconds.
• Serve Warm – Apple crumble is best enjoyed warm with your favorite topping.

How Can I Make Apple Crumble Healthier?

• Use Less Sugar – Reduce the sugar in the filling and topping.
• Add Whole Wheat Flour – Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat for added fiber.
• Use Rolled Oats – Add oats to the topping for extra fiber.
• Add More Fruit – Include pears or berries to reduce the calorie density.
• Skip the Cream Toppings – Serve with fresh fruit instead of cream or ice cream.

Nutrition Value (per serving)

• Calories: 280
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 12g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 24g

FAQs

Can I Use Other Fruits Besides Apples in Apple Crumble?

Yes, apple crumble can be made with other fruits or a mix of fruits. Pears, berries, rhubarb, or peaches are popular additions that blend well with apples or can be used alone to create different flavors.

How Do I Make Apple Crumble Topping Crispier?

To make the topping crispier, add 1/4 cup of oats or chopped nuts, like almonds or pecans, to the crumble mixture. You can also increase the baking time slightly until the topping is golden brown and crunchy.

Can Apple Crumble Be Made Ahead of Time?

Yes, apple crumble can be made ahead of time. Prepare the crumble, cover it, and store it in the fridge for up to a day before baking. You can also bake it ahead, then reheat in the oven at 160°C (325°F) for 10-15 minutes before serving.

How Do I Store Leftover Apple Crumble?

Store leftover apple crumble in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For the best texture, reheat in the oven before serving to keep the topping crispy.

Final Words

Nigel Slater’s Apple Crumble is a delightful and easy-to-make dessert that brings out the best of fall flavors. The tender, slightly tart apples combined with a crunchy, buttery topping make it a favorite for all ages. Serve with your choice of toppings for an unforgettable dessert experience!

More Recipes By British Baking Recipes

• Jamie Oliver Pineapple Upside Down Cake
• James Martin Pineapple Upside Down Cake
• Jamie Oliver Chocolate and Raspberry Cake

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