Craving a warm dessert but don’t want to bake a whole batch? Try my simple and delicious apple crumble for two! This cozy treat combines tender apples with a crunchy topping, perfect for sharing. You can whip it up in no time and enjoy it with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Let’s dive into the ingredients and get started on this delightful dessert together!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 2 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– Pinch of sea salt
– 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
– Optional toppings: vanilla ice cream or whipped cream
To make apple crumble for two, you need a few key ingredients. The apples are the star here. I love using Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples. They offer a nice blend of tartness and sweetness.
Next, you will need brown sugar. This adds depth to the apples. Ground cinnamon and freshly grated nutmeg bring warmth and spice. They enhance the flavor of the apples.
For the topping, rolled oats and all-purpose flour create a crunchy texture. The cold unsalted butter binds everything together. Granulated sugar adds a hint of sweetness. A pinch of sea salt balances the flavors. Lastly, fresh lemon juice brightens the dish.
Optional toppings like vanilla ice cream or whipped cream can take it up a notch. They add creaminess and richness to the warm crumble.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat the Oven
First, set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This helps the apple crumble bake evenly and turn golden brown.
Prepare the Apple Filling
In a small bowl, mix the diced apples with two tablespoons of brown sugar. Add half a teaspoon of ground cinnamon and a quarter teaspoon of grated nutmeg. Pour in one tablespoon of fresh lemon juice. Stir gently until all the apples are coated. Let this mix sit for about 10 minutes. This step softens the apples and blends the flavors.
Make the Crumble Topping
In another bowl, whisk together half a cup of rolled oats, a quarter cup of all-purpose flour, and two tablespoons of granulated sugar. Add a pinch of sea salt to enhance the flavors. Cut in a quarter cup of cold unsalted butter, diced into small cubes. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to mix until it looks like coarse crumbs. You want some lumps for a nice texture.
Assemble and Bake
Divide the apple mixture into two small ramekins. If you prefer, use a small baking dish. Spoon the crumble topping over the apples evenly. Place the ramekins on a baking sheet to catch any drips. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Look for a golden brown topping and bubbling apples.
Serving Suggestions
Let the crumble cool for one minute before serving. For a tasty touch, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top. This adds a fun contrast of warm and cold. Enjoy each bite!
Tips & Tricks
Selecting the Best Apples
Choose apples that bring flavor and texture. I love using Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples. Granny Smith apples are tart and hold their shape well when baked. Honeycrisp apples add sweetness and a juicy crunch. Make sure the apples are firm and fresh. They should smell fruity and bright. Avoid apples with bruises or soft spots.
Achieving the Perfect Crumble Texture
To get the crumble just right, use cold butter. Cut it into small cubes before mixing. Your goal is to blend the butter with the dry ingredients until it looks like coarse crumbs. Some lumps are okay! This texture will give you a nice crunch when baked. Don’t overmix; keep that crumbly feel.
Serving Recommendations
Serve your apple crumble warm for the best flavor. I like to use small ramekins, which look cute and are easy to handle. Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top. The cold cream contrasts nicely with the warm crumble. You can also sprinkle some extra cinnamon on top for a fun touch. Enjoy the blend of flavors!
Variations
Add-Ins for Extra Flavor
You can boost your apple crumble with fun add-ins. Try adding a handful of raisins or dried cranberries. They give a nice chewy texture and a sweet touch. You can also mix in some chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans. This adds crunch and a rich flavor. For a twist, sprinkle in a few chocolate chips. This can make the dessert even more special!
Gluten-Free Options
If you need a gluten-free option, swap the all-purpose flour. Use a gluten-free flour blend instead. Make sure the oats are labeled gluten-free, too. This way, you can enjoy your apple crumble without worry. It will still taste great and keep its wonderful texture!
Alternative Sweeteners
You can change the sweetness by using different sweeteners. Instead of brown sugar, try maple syrup or honey. Both add a unique flavor. Just remember, if you use liquid sweeteners, reduce the lemon juice a bit. You can also use coconut sugar for a more caramel-like taste. These options can make your dessert healthier while still being tasty.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
To store leftover apple crumble, let it cool completely. Once cooled, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. You can also use an airtight container. Keep the crumble in the fridge for up to three days. This will help keep the flavors fresh.
Reheating Instructions
Reheat your apple crumble in the oven for best results. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the cover and place the crumble in the oven for about 10-15 minutes. This brings back the crispiness of the topping. If you want a quick option, use the microwave. Heat it in 20-second intervals until warm.
Freezing Tips
You can freeze apple crumble for later enjoyment. After cooling, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then foil. Be sure to label it with the date. It will keep in the freezer for up to three months. To bake from frozen, just add extra time in the oven. Enjoy a warm dessert on a cozy night!
FAQs
Can I make this recipe without oats?
Yes, you can skip the oats. Use more flour instead. This change will still give you a nice texture. Just replace the oats with an extra 1/2 cup of flour. It will be a bit softer but still tasty.
How do I adjust the recipe for more servings?
To serve more people, simply double or triple the ingredients. For four servings, use:
– 4 medium apples
– 4 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter
– 4 tablespoons granulated sugar
– Pinch of sea salt
– 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
This way, everyone can enjoy a warm dish!
What are some good apple substitutes?
If you want to change the apples, use pears, peaches, or berries. They all work well. Just keep in mind that different fruits may change the taste. Make sure to adjust the sugar based on the fruit’s sweetness.
How long does apple crumble last in the fridge?
Apple crumble stays good for about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Just cover it well to keep it fresh. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat in the oven for the best taste.
This blog post covered how to make a tasty apple crumble. We discussed the key ingredients like apples, oats, and spices. I shared step-by-step instructions, plus tips for the best results. You learned about fun variations and how to store leftovers.
Apple crumble is easy and fun to make. You can enjoy it warm or cold. With endless topping options, it can be a new family favorite. Enjoy your baking adventure!
