Apple Crumble is a timeless dessert that combines sweet and tart flavors, making it the perfect treat to enjoy as the weather cools. This Apple Crumble recipe features a delicious brown butter pecan topping that elevates the dish with a rich, nutty flavor. It’s a versatile dessert that works wonderfully for cozy weeknight dinners or special occasions. Plus, it’s an easy dessert to prepare, perfect for those who crave a warm, comforting treat.
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Why You’ll Love This Apple Crumble
This Apple Crumble recipe stands out because of its unique brown butter pecan topping. The brown butter adds a caramelized, nutty richness that complements the tartness of Granny Smith apples. Paired with the crunchy pecans in the crumble, each bite is an irresistible balance of textures and flavors. The warm cinnamon and cardamom spices in the crumble add depth, while the apples provide a refreshing, tangy base. This combination makes this dessert a repeat favorite in any household.
Ingredients for Apple Crumble
Apple Filling
• Granny Smith Apples: Tart apples that hold their shape when baked, providing the perfect balance of tartness and texture.
• Granulated Sugar: Helps sweeten the apple filling without overwhelming the natural tartness of the apples.
• Orange Juice: Adds a subtle acidity that enhances the tart apples.
• Tapioca Flour: A natural thickener that gives the filling a perfect, clear consistency without cloudiness.
• Ground Cinnamon: A warm spice that brings out the flavors of the apples.
Pecan Streusel Topping
• Unbleached All-Purpose Flour: Provides the structure and texture for the crumble topping.
• Dark Brown Sugar: Adds a rich, molasses flavor that pairs well with the browned butter.
• Ground Cinnamon and Ground Cardamom: Spices that give the topping its aromatic depth, balancing sweet and savory notes.
• Unsalted Butter: Browned to perfection to provide a deep, caramelized flavor.
• Chopped Toasted Pecans: Adds a crunchy, nutty element to the crumble.
Alternative Ingredient Suggestions
If you’re missing an ingredient or want to adjust the recipe to suit dietary preferences, here are a few alternatives:
• Apples: While Granny Smith apples are preferred for their tartness, you can use other varieties like Honeycrisp or Braeburn for a slightly sweeter filling.
• Flour: You can substitute unbleached all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a more rustic texture, or gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
• Browned Butter: If you’re short on time, you can skip the browning process and use regular unsalted butter, though the flavor won’t be as deep.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Apple Crumble
- Brown the Butter: Start by browning the butter over low heat. This process can take up to 20 minutes. Once browned, pour it into a bowl and refrigerate until solidified.
- Make the Pecan Streusel Topping: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, cardamom, and salt. Add the cold browned butter and use a pastry blender to cut it into the dry ingredients until it resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the brown sugar and chopped pecans. Chill the mixture for at least 30 minutes.
- Prepare the Apple Filling: Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Peel, core, and cut the apples into cubes. In a bowl, combine the apples with orange juice, granulated sugar, tapioca flour, and cinnamon. Toss to coat evenly.
- Assemble the Crumble: Spread the apple filling evenly in a buttered baking dish. Sprinkle the chilled pecan crumble topping over the apples, making sure to leave some gaps so the apple juices bubble through.
- Bake the Crumble: Bake for 40-60 minutes, depending on how soft you prefer the apples. The juices should bubble, and the crumble should turn golden brown. Let the crumble cool for 20 minutes before serving.
Tips & Tricks for Perfect Apple Crumble
• Use Tart Apples: Granny Smith apples are ideal for this crumble because their tartness contrasts beautifully with the sweet topping.
• Don’t Overcrowd: Ensure that the apple mixture and crumble topping are spread evenly in the baking dish for the best texture.
• Let It Cool: Allow the crumble to rest for about 20 minutes before serving to allow the juices to thicken and set.
• Adjust Sweetness: Depending on the tartness of the apples, you may want to adjust the sugar in the apple filling.
Pairing Ideas and Variations
Apple Crumble is delicious on its own, but you can take it to the next level by pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a unique twist, try serving it with butter pecan ice cream to complement the flavors of the crumble. If you’re feeling adventurous, drizzle some caramel sauce over the top.
Variations
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the crumble topping for a spicy variation.
• Vegan Option: Swap the butter for coconut oil and use a plant-based yogurt or ice cream for a dairy-free dessert.
Seasonal Appeal of Apple Crumble
Apple Crumble is the epitome of fall desserts. The crisp air, the abundance of apples, and the warm spices make this dessert perfect for the season. Whether you’re celebrating Thanksgiving or enjoying a quiet evening at home, this comforting dessert is sure to impress.
Conclusion
Apple Crumble with a brown butter pecan topping is a delightful dessert that combines the perfect balance of tart apples, warm spices, and a rich, nutty crumble. Whether you’re baking it for a family gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, this dessert is guaranteed to impress. With its simple yet sophisticated flavors, it’s an excellent way to celebrate the apple season or treat yourself to something special. The delicious crumble topping, enhanced by browned butter and toasted pecans, will make this Apple Crumble a go-to dessert for years to come. Serve it with vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce, and you have a dessert that everyone will love!
FAQs
1. What apples are best for Apple Crumble?
The best apples for Apple Crumble are tart varieties like Granny Smith, which hold their shape well during baking and provide a delightful contrast to the sweet crumble topping. Other good options include Honeycrisp and Braeburn apples. You can mix Granny Smith with a sweeter apple, like Golden Delicious, for a balanced flavor.
2. Can I make this Apple Crumble ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the crumble topping up to a week in advance and store it in the refrigerator. For the apple filling, you can also prepare it a few hours ahead and refrigerate it until ready to bake. When you’re ready to bake, just assemble the dish and cook it as directed.
3. Can I make this recipe without brown butter?
While the brown butter gives this Apple Crumble its signature nutty flavor, you can substitute regular unsalted butter if you’re short on time. The crumble will still be delicious, though the flavor will be slightly different. For the best results, try to brown the butter when possible.
4. How should I store leftover Apple Crumble?
If you have any leftover Apple Crumble, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also keep it at room temperature for a day if it’s not too warm. To reheat, bake it in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for 15-20 minutes until it’s warmed through
More Relevant Recipes
- Raspberry Cinnamon Rolls with Lemon Glaze: These warm cinnamon rolls, infused with fresh raspberries and topped with a zesty lemon glaze, are a perfect fruity twist on traditional cinnamon rolls. Similar to the Apple Crumble, they combine sweet and tangy flavors, ideal for those who love fruit-filled desserts with a soft, pillowy texture.
- Peach Upside-Down Mini Cakes: A great way to enjoy the sweetness of peaches in a unique and charming individual serving. The caramelized peach topping and moist cake center resemble the comforting elements of an apple crumble, making these mini cakes a delightful choice for fruit lovers.
- Blueberry Crumble Cheesecake: This dessert combines the rich creaminess of cheesecake with the crisp, buttery topping of a crumble. The tangy blueberries provide a similar fruity kick to the apple filling in the original recipe, making it a perfect choice for those seeking a decadent, yet familiar dessert.
Apple Crumble Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Apple Crumble with Brown Butter Pecan Topping is a deliciously comforting dessert that combines tart Granny Smith apples with a rich, buttery crumble. The brown butter and toasted pecans add a nutty flavor to the topping, while the cinnamon-spiced apples provide the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness. This dessert is perfect for the fall season and can be enjoyed with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
Ingredients
- Granny Smith Apples (2 lbs)
- Granulated Sugar (3/4 cup)
- Orange Juice (2 tbsp)
- Tapioca Flour (2 1/2 tbsp)
- Ground Cinnamon (1 1/2 tsp)
- Unbleached All-Purpose Flour (1 cup)
- Dark Brown Sugar (1/3 cup)
- Ground Cinnamon (1 1/2 tsp)
- Ground Cardamom (1/2 tsp)
- Unsalted Butter (9 1/2 tbsp, divided)
- Chopped Toasted Pecans (2/3 cup)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and butter a 2.5-quart baking dish.
- To make the brown butter, place 8 tablespoons of butter in a saucepan over low heat. Cook until the butter turns golden brown, then remove from heat and stir in the remaining butter. Let it cool to about 70°F, then refrigerate until solid.
- To make the crumble, whisk together flour, cinnamon, cardamom, and salt in a bowl. Add the cold browned butter and mix until the mixture resembles large crumbs. Stir in brown sugar and pecans, then refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- For the apple filling, peel and core the apples. Cut them into cubes and toss them in a bowl with orange juice. Mix tapioca flour, sugar, cinnamon, and salt in a small bowl and add to the apples, stirring to combine.
- Spread the apple mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Top with the chilled pecan crumble, leaving a few gaps for the juices to bubble through.
- Bake for 40-60 minutes, depending on your preferred apple softness. The juices should be bubbling and the topping golden brown.
- Allow the crumble to cool for 20 minutes before serving. Serve with vanilla ice cream or caramel sauce if desired.
Notes
- For a sweeter crumble, mix Granny Smith apples with Golden Delicious apples.
- If you don’t have brown butter, substitute regular butter, though the flavor will not be as rich.
- Leftover apple crumble can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- The crumble topping can be made up to a week in advance and stored in the fridge.
- Prep Time: 35 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 658 kcal
- Sugar: 59g
- Sodium: 395mg
- Fat: 29g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 19g
- Trans Fat: 0.4g
- Carbohydrates: 100g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 24mg