Description
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.
Ingredients
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.
Instructions
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 into 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.