Is there anything more comforting than a warm, bubbly crumble on a chilly evening? This apple and pear crumble recipe takes a classic dessert and elevates it with a touch of sophistication, perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in. It’s surprisingly easy to make, using simple ingredients and requiring minimal effort, making it ideal for those busy weeknights when you crave something delicious and homemade. This recipe is a celebration of autumnal flavors and a testament to the beauty of simple, healthy meals.
Ingredients:
For the Filling:
- 3 large apples (such as Braeburn or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and sliced
- 2 ripe pears (such as Anjou or Bartlett), peeled, cored, and sliced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
For the Crumble Topping:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Instructions:
Get started: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
Prepare the fruit filling: In a large bowl, gently combine the sliced apples and pears, granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Toss everything together until the fruit is evenly coated. Pour the fruit mixture into the prepared baking dish.
Make the crumble topping: In a separate bowl, combine the flour, oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Assemble and bake: Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the fruit filling. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the fruit is bubbly.
Cool and serve: Let the crumble cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence!
Tips for the Best Apple and Pear Crumble:
- Use a mix of apple and pear varieties: This will add depth and complexity to the flavor profile.
- Don't overmix the crumble topping: Overmixing will result in a tough topping. Work quickly and gently.
- For a crispier topping: Increase the baking time by 5-10 minutes.
- Add a touch of spice: Experiment with other spices like ginger or cardamom for a unique twist.
- Make it ahead: You can assemble the crumble ahead of time and bake it just before serving.
Variations:
- Berry Crumble: Substitute the apples and pears with your favorite berries, such as blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries.
- Nutty Crumble: Add 1/2 cup of chopped nuts (such as pecans or walnuts) to the crumble topping.
- Gluten-free Crumble: Use gluten-free flour and oats to make this recipe gluten-free.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 40-45g
- Sugar: 20-25g
- Protein: 4-5g
(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.)
This easy recipe is perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings while enjoying a healthy and delicious dessert. It’s a fantastic example of quick dinner ideas that don’t compromise on flavor or quality. Enjoy the comforting aroma and the delightful taste of this homemade apple and pear crumble!