
Apple and strawberry crumble
Equipment
- Fork or pastry cutter
Ingredients
- For the Filling:
- 3 medium apples peeled, cored, and sliced
- 1 ½ cups fresh or frozen strawberries hulled and sliced
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- For the Crumble Topping:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ cup unsalted butter cold and cubed
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish and set aside.
- Prepare the Fruit Filling:
- In a mixing bowl, toss the sliced apples and strawberries with granulated sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, and cornstarch until the fruit is evenly coated. Transfer the fruit mixture to the prepared baking dish.
- Make the Crumble Topping:
- In another bowl, combine the flour, oats, sugar, and cinnamon. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a fork or pastry cutter to mix the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Assemble the Crumble:
- Evenly sprinkle the crumble topping over the fruit mixture in the baking dish.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the fruit is bubbling around the edges.
- Cool and Serve:
- Allow the crumble to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
Nutrition
As the air gets crisp and leaves change colors, it’s the perfect time for cozy fall flavors. A delicious apple and strawberry crumble is a great way to enjoy the season. It mixes sweet strawberries with crisp apples under a golden crumb topping.
This dessert is not only tasty but also good for you. It’s packed with fresh fruit and wholesome oats. It’s sure to make your taste buds happy and keep you feeling good.
Key Takeaways
- Combines the flavors of sweet apples and juicy strawberries in a comforting fall dessert
- Uses a streusel-like crumb topping for a satisfying texture contrast
- Includes healthy ingredients like fresh fruit and oats
- Perfect for serving at holiday gatherings or cozy autumn gatherings
- Easy to make with simple, accessible ingredients
Introducing the Perfect Fall Dessert
As the air gets crisp and leaves change, nothing beats the smell of a strawberry apple crumble baking. This dessert is the essence of autumn, mixing sweet strawberries with tart apples.
What Makes This Recipe Special
This easy apple crumble with strawberries stands out for its flavor and texture mix. It has 4 cups of sliced strawberries and 4 large apples, making a jammy center. The topping is a golden oat mix with butter, cinnamon, and brown sugar, making it a treat for the senses.
Health Benefits of Seasonal Ingredients
This healthy apple strawberry crumble is great for your taste buds and health. Strawberries and apples are full of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. This dessert is a healthier choice, with whole grains and less sugar, making it a guilt-free fall treat.
“This strawberry apple crumble is the perfect balance of sweet and tart, with a delightful crispy topping. It’s a must-try for any fall gathering!” – Sarah, Avid Baker
Essential Ingredients for Apple and Strawberry Crumble
Making a tasty apple strawberry crumble dessert begins with picking the right ingredients. You’ll need fresh, seasonal fruits and some pantry staples. This mix creates a sweet and tart flavor balance.
The fruit base includes crisp Granny Smith apples and sweet Honeycrisp apples. Add fresh, ripe strawberries for extra sweetness. A bit of lemon juice, vanilla extract, and cinnamon will boost the flavors. Use cornstarch or arrowroot to thicken the filling.
The crumble topping is made from rolled oats, oat flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter or coconut oil. This creates a crunchy, golden topping that pairs well with the fruit.
Adding chopped nuts, a drizzle of maple syrup, or a pinch of ginger can make the quick strawberry apple crumble even better.
“The key to a truly exceptional apple strawberry crumble dessert is finding the perfect balance of sweet and tart, with a delightfully crunchy topping.”
Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed
Baking a tasty apple and strawberry crumble is easy. You don’t need a lot of special tools. But, some key tools make the job easier and improve the taste. Let’s look at the must-have baking tools and some optional ones that can make your crumble better.
Must-Have Baking Essentials
- 8×8-inch baking dish or 9-inch pie dish: The perfect size for this recipe, allowing the fruit and crumble topping to bake evenly.
- Mixing bowls: You’ll need a few bowls for mixing the fruit filling, the crumble topping, and any other ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Precise measurements are key for baking, so make sure you have a full set of measuring tools on hand.
- Rubber spatula: Invaluable for scraping down the sides of bowls and ensuring all ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Paring knife: A sharp paring knife will be your best friend for peeling, coring, and dicing the apples.
Optional Equipment for Better Results
While the essential tools above are all you really need to bake this crumble, a few optional pieces of equipment can help take your dessert to the next level:
- Food processor: If you want to make your own oat flour for the crumble topping, a food processor can make quick work of it.
- Zester: Adding a hint of lemon zest to the fruit filling can brighten up the flavors, and a zester is the perfect tool for the job.
- 12-inch deep dish ceramic or glass pie plate: For an extra-large crumble that can feed a crowd, opt for a deep dish pie plate instead of a standard baking dish.
With the right tools in your kitchen, you’ll be well on your way to baking up a delectable apple and strawberry crumble that will have your family and friends coming back for seconds. Happy baking!
Selecting the Best Apples for Your Crumble
Choosing the right apples is key to making the best apple and strawberry crumble. You want firm, crisp apples that stay firm while baking. Golden Delicious, Honeycrisp, and Granny Smith are great choices.
For the best taste, mix sweet and tart apples. Braeburn, Jonagold, Jonathan, or Pink Lady are also good options. Make sure your apples are fresh, without blemishes, and crunchy.
The recipe needs 4 Golden Delicious apples, about 1.5 pounds. This gives a rich fruit layer in each best apple and strawberry crumble serving.
- Golden Delicious: Known for their sweetness and ability to hold their shape during baking
- Honeycrisp: A popular choice for their firm texture and balanced acidity
- Granny Smith: Offers a pleasant tartness that complements the sweetness of the crumble
By picking the best apple for your fruit desserts crumble, you get a mix of flavors. And a delicious, well-structured treat.
Tips for Choosing Fresh Strawberries
When making this apple and strawberry crumble, picking the freshest strawberries is key. Look for strawberries that are bright red, plump, and smell sweet. Stay away from berries with white or green spots, as they’re not ripe yet.
Seasonal Availability
Strawberries are at their best from late spring to early summer. This makes them a great choice for summer desserts. You’ll find lots of juicy strawberries at farmers’ markets or stores during this time.
Storage Recommendations
- Keep unwashed strawberries in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Wash them just before using to keep them from getting soggy.
- You can use fresh or frozen strawberries for this recipe. If frozen, add them straight to the filling without thawing.
Strawberry Storage Tips | Recommendations |
---|---|
Refrigeration | Up to 3 days |
Washing | Just before use |
Fresh vs. Frozen | Both work well in this recipe |
By following these tips, you’ll pick the best seasonal fruits for your apple and strawberry crumble. This will make your dessert both tasty and beautiful.
Making the Perfect Crumble Topping
The crumbly topping is the star of this apple and strawberry crumble. Making the perfect crumble is an art. With the right technique, you get a golden-brown crust that matches the juicy fruit.
To start, mix dry ingredients in a bowl. You’ll need rolled oats, oat flour, chopped macadamia nuts, coconut sugar, salt, and cinnamon. Stir until they’re well mixed.
Then, add wet ingredients like melted coconut oil or butter, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Mix with your hands until you get a mix of fine crumbs and pea-sized clusters. This mix is key for a crumbly topping that bakes up right.
Spread the topping over the fruit filling. Make sure it’s evenly spread for the best homemade sweets taste. The topping will bake golden-brown and crisp, contrasting beautifully with the soft fruit.
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Rolled Oats | 1 cup |
Oat Flour | 1/2 cup |
Macadamia Nuts, chopped | 2/3 cup |
Coconut Sugar | 1/2 cup |
Cinnamon | 1 teaspoon |
Salt | 1/4 teaspoon |
Coconut Oil or Butter, melted | 1/2 cup |
Maple Syrup | 2 tablespoons |
Vanilla Extract | 1 teaspoon |
Follow these steps for a crumbly topping that makes your apple and strawberry crumble amazing. Enjoy the sweet, spiced, and crunchy goodness in every bite of your homemade sweets.
Step-by-Step Fruit Filling Preparation
Getting the perfect baked fruit filling is key for a tasty dessert. Let’s go through the steps to make sure your apples and strawberries are ready.
Proper Fruit Cutting Techniques
Start by peeling, coring, and cutting the baked fruit into 1/4-inch slices or small cubes. For the sweet pastry filling, remove the stems from the fresh strawberries. Then, slice them into 1/8-inch pieces.
Seasoning and Sweetening Guidelines
In a large bowl, mix the apples and strawberries with coconut sugar, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and cornstarch or arrowroot powder. The starch thickens the filling, making it jammy. Adjust the sugar to match your fruit’s sweetness. Adding cinnamon or lemon zest can also enhance the flavor.
Follow these steps to create a vibrant, tasty fruit filling. It’s perfect for your baked fruit and sweet pastry masterpiece.
Assembling Your Crumble Like a Pro
Making the perfect apple and strawberry crumble starts with assembly. First, grease an 8×8-inch baking dish or a 9-inch pie plate. This makes sure your dessert comes out easily. Next, spread the fruit filling evenly at the bottom of the dish.
Next, it’s time for the crumble topping. Sprinkle it over the fruit, making sure to cover it all. Don’t press down; a light sprinkle is key for the right texture.
For a nice touch, sprinkle cinnamon or sugar on top before baking. This adds a golden look and a warm aroma to your homemade apple and strawberry crumble.
Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Servings | Calories |
---|---|---|---|---|
10 minutes | 40 minutes | 50 minutes | 8 servings | 346 kcal |
Follow these steps to make a stunning apple and strawberry crumble. Let the fruit and topping be the stars. Enjoy the homemade charm and the aroma that fills your kitchen.
Baking Temperature and Timing Guide
For the perfect baking recipes and comfort food, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature helps get a golden-brown crust on the crumble. It also makes the fruit filling jammy and bubbly.
Bake the crumble for 32-42 minutes. Watch it closely after 30 minutes. Your oven might be different, so adjust the time to avoid over-browning. When the top is golden and the edges bubble, it’s done.
Metric | Value |
---|---|
Serving Size | 6-8 servings |
Rating | 4.96 out of 5 from 472 votes |
Prep Time | 15 minutes |
Cook Time | 40 minutes |
Total Time | 55 minutes |
Number of Comments | 1,224 |
Publication Date | Recipe originally posted in April 2016, updated on October 8, 2022 |
Every oven is different, so watch your crumble closely. Adjust the time as needed for the best result. The smell of this baking recipes and comfort food will make your kitchen irresistible.
How to Achieve the Perfect Golden Crust
Baking the perfect crumble is all about getting the golden-brown crust just right. This golden crust adds a wonderful texture and seals in the juicy fruit. Let’s look at how to make sure your crumble recipes always turn out great.
Visual Cues for Doneness
The crumble is done when the top is a deep golden-brown and the fruit is bubbling. To check, insert a paring knife into the center. If it slides through the apples easily, the fruit is tender and cooked.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- If the top browns too fast, cover it with foil and bake some more. This stops the top from burning while the fruit cooks.
- For a crunchier top, broil the crumble for 1-2 minutes. Watch closely to avoid burning.
By following these tips, you’ll get a perfect golden crust on your crumble recipes. It’s a treat for the senses.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This easy apple and strawberry crumble is perfect for any time. It’s great for a cozy autumn evening or a summer backyard party. The warm fruit filling and the buttery topping are irresistible together.
To serve, scoop generous portions into bowls and enjoy warm. It’s best about 10-15 minutes after baking. It goes well with vanilla ice cream, frozen yogurt, or whipped cream. For a healthier choice, try Greek yogurt.
For a special treat, drizzle it with caramel sauce or honey. The sweet, gooey sauce contrasts beautifully with the warm fruit and crisp topping. Add a few fresh mint leaves for color and a refreshing taste.
This crumble is great on its own or with other desserts. Serve it with comfort foods or summer desserts for a satisfying spread.
Serving Suggestion | Pairing |
---|---|
Warm, straight from the oven | Vanilla ice cream, frozen yogurt, or whipped cream |
Healthy option | Greek yogurt |
Drizzled with caramel sauce or honey | Adds an extra layer of sweetness and indulgence |
Garnished with fresh mint leaves | Provides a refreshing contrast and visual appeal |
No matter how you serve this apple and strawberry crumble, it’s a hit. Enjoy this cozy dessert and the comforting flavors of fall.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Enjoy the tasty flavors of the easy apple crumble with strawberries. Here’s how to store and reheat it:
Keep leftover apple and strawberry crumble in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm it in the microwave for 30-40 seconds. Or, bake it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes until warm.
Freeze it for up to 2-3 months if you want to keep it longer. Cool it down first, then put it in a freezer-safe container or wrap it in foil. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
For the best taste, eat the crumble within 3-5 hours of baking. The warm apples, juicy strawberries, and crunchy topping are perfect when fresh.
“The key to enjoying this crumble is to savor it at the perfect moment – when it’s slightly warm and the flavors have melded together.”
Whether you eat it now or later, these tips will keep your easy apple crumble with strawberries delicious and satisfying.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations
Make this apple and strawberry crumble recipe your own by trying different versions. Whether you need a gluten-free or vegan dessert, we have easy tips. These won’t affect the taste.
Gluten-Free Options
For a gluten-free crumble, use gluten-free oat flour or a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour. You can also choose certified gluten-free rolled oats for the topping. These changes let you enjoy the dessert without wheat.
Vegan Modifications
To veganize this recipe, use coconut oil or vegan butter instead of regular butter. The fruit filling is already egg-free, so no more changes are needed. You might also want to use less coconut sugar or try stevia or monk fruit for less sugar.
With these easy tweaks, you can enjoy a vegan apple strawberry crumble recipe or a gluten-free strawberry apple crumble. You can do this without giving up on taste.
Ingredient | Gluten-Free Version | Vegan Version |
---|---|---|
Flour | Gluten-free oat flour or 1:1 gluten-free blend | No change |
Oats | Certified gluten-free rolled oats | No change |
Butter | No change | Coconut oil or vegan butter |
Sugar | No change | Reduced coconut sugar or natural sweetener |
Make-Ahead and Freezing Tips
Planning ahead can make the quick strawberry apple crumble even better. You can prepare it in advance. This way, you can enjoy it whenever you want a taste of fall.
One tip is to make the crumble topping a day before. Mix the dry ingredients and cut in the butter. Then, store it in the fridge until you’re ready to use it. When baking, just let the topping come to room temperature and sprinkle it over the fruit.
You can also freeze the crumble topping for up to 3 months. Prepare the recipe as usual, then put it in a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready, just sprinkle the frozen topping over the fruit and bake for 15-20 minutes longer.
To freeze the whole crumble, assemble it in a freezer-safe pan. Cover it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, bake it straight from the freezer. Add 15-20 minutes to the baking time until it’s golden brown.
With these tips, you can always have a delicious quick strawberry apple crumble ready. It’s perfect for a comforting treat whenever you want it.
Fruit to Crumble Ratio | Baking Time | Crumble Topping Yield | Crumble Topping Freezer Life |
---|---|---|---|
|
1 hour at 350°F until fruit bubbles through golden crumble | 3 bags of crumble, equivalent to 3 8×8 batches | Up to 6 months in the freezer |
Conclusion
The homemade apple and strawberry crumble is a delightful dessert perfect for fall. It has a sweet-tart fruit mix and a buttery, crunchy topping. This recipe will surely delight your taste buds and become a family favorite.
Whether you’re hosting a cozy gathering or just want a comforting treat, this fruit crumble is great. It’s easy to customize to fit your taste. This makes it a versatile choice for any occasion.
Every part of this dessert, from the apples and strawberries to the crumble topping, is carefully made. It’s easy to prepare and suits both new and experienced bakers. This makes it a wonderful addition to your cooking collection.
So, gather your loved ones and fire up the oven. Enjoy the irresistible flavors of this autumn dessert. The homemade apple and strawberry crumble is a delicious way to celebrate the season and make memories together.
FAQ
What makes this apple and strawberry crumble recipe special?
This easy apple and strawberry crumble is a mix of juicy strawberries and sweet apples. It’s topped with a golden streusel-like crumb. It’s a perfect fall dessert that’s both sweet and healthy.
What are the health benefits of the ingredients in this crumble?
This strawberry apple crumble is a healthier dessert. It has a sweet filling and a crisp oatmeal topping. It’s gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan-friendly, made with simple ingredients like oats, coconut oil, and maple syrup.
What are the key ingredients in this recipe?
The main ingredients are fresh strawberries, apples, coconut sugar, lemon juice, and cornstarch or arrowroot. You also need rolled oats, oat flour, nuts (optional), cinnamon, maple syrup, and coconut oil or butter.
What kitchen tools and equipment are needed to make this crumble?
You’ll need an 8×8-inch baking dish or 9-inch pie dish, mixing bowls, and measuring cups and spoons. A rubber spatula and a paring knife are also essential. Optional tools include a food processor for oat flour and a zester for lemon zest.
What are the best apples to use for this crumble recipe?
Choose firm apples like Golden Delicious, Honey Crisp, and Granny Smith. They hold their shape when baked. Mixing sweet and tart apples gives the best flavor.
How should the strawberries be selected and prepared for this recipe?
Pick ripe, fragrant strawberries for the best taste. Look for bright red berries with fresh green caps. You can use fresh or frozen strawberries, adding frozen ones straight to the mix.
How is the crumble topping made?
The topping is a mix of rolled oats, oat flour, nuts (optional), coconut sugar or brown sugar, salt, cinnamon, melted coconut oil or butter, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. This makes a golden-brown topping when baked.
How should the fruit filling be prepared?
Peel, core, and chop apples into 1/4-inch slices or small cubes. For strawberries, remove stems and slice into 1/8-inch pieces. Mix fruits with coconut sugar, lemon juice, vanilla, and cornstarch or arrowroot powder for a jammy texture.
What is the proper way to assemble and bake the crumble?
Grease a baking dish, spread the fruit filling evenly, and sprinkle the crumble topping over the fruit. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 32-42 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.
How can the crumble be served and stored?
Serve the crumble warm, about 10-15 minutes after baking. It’s great with vanilla ice cream, frozen yogurt, or whipped cream. Leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or frozen for up to 2-3 months.
What dietary variations are available for this recipe?
For a gluten-free version, use certified gluten-free oats and oat flour. To make it vegan, use coconut oil or vegan butter instead of regular butter. The recipe is naturally egg-free, and you can reduce the sugar for a lower-sugar option.