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Classic Apple Crumble

Few desserts capture the essence of fall like a warm, bubbling Baked Apple Crumble. This recipe delivers the perfect harmony of tender, spiced apples and a buttery, crisp topping.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3/4 cup packed brown sugar (light or dark)
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 8 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 1/2 lb granny smith apples, peeled, cored, and chopped (about 6 to 7 cups)
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar or brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 2 tbsp cornstarch or all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Apples: Peel, core, and chop the Granny Smith apples into 1/2-inch chunks. Unlike softer varieties, Granny Smiths hold their shape during baking. Immediately toss them in a large bowl with the lemon juice to prevent browning.
  2. Make the Filling: To the apples, add the granulated sugar, cornstarch (or flour), salt, and 1 tsp cinnamon. Toss thoroughly until every piece is evenly coated. The cornstarch is crucial - it acts as a thickening agent for the natural juices released during baking.
  3. Mix the Dry Topping: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, baking powder, salt, and 1/2 tsp cinnamon. Experts recommend whisking to evenly distribute the baking powder, which helps create a lighter, crispier crumble texture.
  4. Create the Crumble: Pour the melted butter over the dry topping mixture. Use a fork to stir until the mixture resembles coarse, wet sand and begins to clump. (Pro tip: Avoid over-mixing to keep the topping tender and crumbly, not tough).
  5. Assemble the Dish: Transfer the apple filling to a 9×9 inch or similar baking dish, spreading it into an even layer. Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the apples, breaking it into various-sized clumps for the best texture contrast.
  6. Bake to Perfection: Place the dish on a baking sheet (to catch any potential bubble-overs) and bake in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for 45-50 minutes. The crumble is done when the topping is deeply golden brown and the filling is bubbling vigorously around the edges.
  7. Cool and Serve: Allow the baked apple dessert to cool for at least 15-20 minutes before serving. This resting period is a key food safety and quality step, as it allows the filling to thicken properly. Serve warm, ideally with vanilla ice cream.
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