Name: Classic Apple Crumble
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Crumble Topping:; 1 cup all-purpose flour; ¾ cup brown sugar (light or dark); 1 teaspoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon; 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; Apple Filling:; 2½ pounds Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, and sliced (about 6 to 7 cups); ½ cup granulated sugar (or brown sugar); 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 2 tablespoons cornstarch (or all-purpose flour); ½ teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

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Warm, spiced apples baked under a buttery, golden crumble topping — this comforting dessert is a seasonal favorite I turn to again and again. Whether it’s a cozy fall night or a simple weekend treat, nothing beats the aroma of apple crumble fresh from the oven.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this dessert strikes the perfect balance between tart apples and a sweet, crunchy topping. It’s incredibly easy to put together and makes the whole house smell amazing. The crumble topping is rich and crisp, while the apple filling stays soft and flavorful. Best of all, it’s always a hit when I serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Classic Apple Crumble

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Crumble Topping:
1 cup all-purpose flour
3/4 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
8 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Apple Filling:
2 1/2 pounds Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, and sliced (about 6 to 7 cups)
1/2 cup granulated sugar (or brown sugar)
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 tablespoons cornstarch (or all-purpose flour)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Directions

I preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease an 8- or 9-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
To make the crumble topping: In a bowl, I mix the flour, brown sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. I pour in the melted butter and stir with a fork until the mixture becomes crumbly.
To make the filling: In a large bowl, I toss the sliced apples with sugar, lemon juice, cornstarch, salt, and cinnamon until evenly coated.
I spread the apple mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
I sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the apples.
I bake for 35–45 minutes, or until the top is golden and the filling is bubbling.
I let it cool for 15 minutes before serving. I like it best warm, especially with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top.

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Calories: 367 kcal per serving

Variations

Sometimes I mix in a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts with the crumble topping for extra crunch. I also like using a mix of apple varieties, like Honeycrisp or Fuji, for more depth of flavor. For a twist, I add a pinch of nutmeg or ground ginger to the filling.

Storage/reheating

I store leftover apple crumble covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, I use the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes to keep the topping crisp. The microwave works too for a quick warm-up, though the topping softens a bit.

FAQs

Can I use other types of apples?

Yes, I sometimes use a mix of sweet and tart apples like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Pink Lady for a more complex flavor.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, I often prepare the crumble and the filling separately, then assemble and bake when I’m ready. It also reheats beautifully.

What can I use instead of cornstarch?

All-purpose flour works just as well to thicken the filling if I don’t have cornstarch on hand.

Is it okay to leave the apple peels on?

I prefer peeling them for a softer texture, but I sometimes leave the peels on for added fiber and a bit of bite.

Can I freeze apple crumble?

Yes, I can freeze it after baking. I let it cool completely, wrap it tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. I reheat it in the oven before serving.

Conclusion

Classic Apple Crumble is my go-to dessert for any season. It’s simple to make, comforting to eat, and endlessly adaptable. Whether I’m serving it at a dinner party or enjoying it as a late-night treat, this crumble never disappoints.