Apple Oat Crumble

Name: Apple Oat Crumble
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 4 medium apples, peeled and sliced; 1/2 cup sugar; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour; 1 cup rolled oats; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup cold butter, cubed; 1/2 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Everyday Baking Collection

I love making this Apple Oat Crumble on cozy weekends, as it transforms a simple array of ingredients into a heartwarming dessert. With the perfect balance of tart apples and a buttery oat topping, this dish captures the essence of autumn, making it an instant hit with family and friends. It’s incredibly easy to whip up, and the smell of baking fills my home with warmth. Whether served warm with a scoop of ice cream or enjoyed on its own, this crumble never disappoints.

Created by

Rachel Green

Last updated on 2026-02-07T19:53:35.695Z

My journey to perfecting this Apple Oat Crumble began with countless experiments in the kitchen. Initially, I was trying to find the right balance between sweetness and tartness, but it was the addition of cinnamon that truly brought everything together. I learned that a mix of different apple varieties adds depth to the flavor, creating a dish that’s both versatile and delightful.

Another tip I discovered is to let the crumble sit for a few minutes after baking. This allows the juices to settle and makes for a more cohesive serving. I personally love serving it with freshly whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for that extra indulgence!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Warm, comforting flavors that evoke cozy memories
Simple ingredients that come together effortlessly
Perfect for family gatherings or solo indulgence

Mastering Your Apple Selection

Choosing the right apples is crucial for achieving the perfect balance of flavor and texture in your Apple Oat Crumble. I recommend using a combination of tart apples like Granny Smith for their acidity and sweetness. This contrast enhances the overall taste and keeps the filling from becoming overly sweet. If you only have sweeter varieties, such as Fuji or Honeycrisp, consider decreasing the sugar in the filling to maintain balance.

Additionally, the texture of the apples matters too. Look for firm apples that hold their shape during baking. Soft, mealy apples will break down completely and create a mushy filling, which isn't ideal for this dish. To prepare, slice your apples evenly, about 1/4 inch thick, ensuring they cook evenly and provide a delightful bite.

Perfecting the Oat Topping

The oat topping is what elevates this crumble into a true comfort dessert. Using rolled oats rather than quick oats offers a chewy texture that contrasts nicely with the tender apple filling. When mixing the dry ingredients, ensure that the brown sugar is fully incorporated; this will provide a rich molasses flavor that enhances the overall dish. If you prefer a nuttier topping, consider adding a handful of chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, for extra crunch and flavor.

When blending in the cold butter, be careful not to overwork the mixture. You want it to resemble coarse crumbs, not a paste. This ensures a crispy topping that will develop a beautiful golden-brown color as it bakes. If the mixture seems too dry, adding a small amount of cold water can help bind it without compromising the texture.

Serving and Storage Suggestions

For an elegant presentation, serve your Apple Oat Crumble in individual ramekins, topped with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprig of fresh mint. A scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream adds a delightful contrast to the warm, spiced flavors. Feel free to experiment with different types of ice cream, such as cinnamon or butter pecan, to enhance the autumn vibe.

If you're preparing in advance, the crumble can be assembled ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking. Just make sure to cover it tightly to prevent the topping from becoming soggy. Alternatively, you can bake it and store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply place in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create the perfect Apple Oat Crumble:

For the Apple Filling

4 medium apples, peeled and sliced
1/2 cup sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

For the Oat Topping

1 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup cold butter, cubed
1/2 teaspoon salt

Make sure to have all these ingredients ready for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Apple Oat Crumble:

Prepare the Apple Filling

In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and flour. Toss until the apples are evenly coated and then pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.

Make the Oat Topping

In a separate bowl, mix together the rolled oats, flour, brown sugar, and salt. Add the cold cubed butter and use your fingers to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Combine and Bake

Spread the oat topping evenly over the apple filling. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apple filling is bubbly.

Serve and Enjoy

Allow the crumble to cool slightly before serving. It's delightful warm, especially with a scoop of vanilla ice cream!

Enjoy your homemade Apple Oat Crumble!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider mixing in some chopped nuts or dried fruits into the oat topping. Also, experimenting with different apple varieties can enhance the flavor profile of your crumble.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

When baking your crumble, if you notice that the topping is browning too quickly before the apples are fully tender, cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil. This will slow the browning process while allowing the filling to bubble and cook through. Additionally, if the topping isn't crisping up as desired, a quick broil at the end for 1-2 minutes can help achieve that perfect golden finish. Just watch closely to prevent burning!

If your filling appears to be too watery, it may be due to the variety of apples used or excess moisture. To remedy this, add an extra tablespoon of flour to the filling to help thicken the juices. You can also let the baked crumble sit for a few minutes before serving, allowing it to set up slightly for a thicker consistency.

Freezing for Later Enjoyment

This Apple Oat Crumble can be frozen both before and after baking. To freeze before baking, assemble the crumble in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and store for up to three months. When you're ready to bake it, no need to thaw; just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time to ensure everything is cooked through.

If you choose to freeze leftovers after baking, allow the crumble to cool completely, then slice and place in airtight containers. It can be stored for up to three months in the freezer. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave or heat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Enjoying a slice of crumble on a chilly evening will remind you of those cozy weekends!

Variations and Customizations

Feel free to play with the flavor profiles of your Apple Oat Crumble by adding additional spices like nutmeg or allspice to the apple filling for a more complex flavor. For a tropical twist, consider incorporating dried cranberries or raisins for added texture and sweetness. You could also substitute some of the oats with crushed granola or add shredded coconut to the topping for a different texture.

For those following a gluten-free diet, easily convert this recipe by using gluten-free oats and a gluten-free flour blend. The taste and texture will still be delightful! Additionally, if you're looking to reduce the sugar content, natural sweeteners like maple syrup or honey can be swapped in, though you may need to adjust the liquid ratios slightly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other fruits instead of apples?

Absolutely! Pears, berries, and peaches work wonderfully in this crumble recipe.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this crumble ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the apple filling and oat topping separately and assemble them just before baking.

→ What should I serve with the crumble?

This crumble is fantastic on its own, but it pairs beautifully with whipped cream or ice cream.