Are you craving a warm, comforting dessert that’s both easy to make and bursting with flavor? Look no further! This apple and plum crumble is the perfect answer. It’s a classic recipe elevated with a delightful blend of sweet apples and juicy plums, topped with a buttery, crunchy crumble topping. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, weekend baking projects, or impressing guests. It’s one of those healthy meals that satisfies your sweet tooth without the guilt. Let's get started!
Ingredients:
For the Filling:
- 3 large apples (such as Honeycrisp or Braeburn), peeled, cored, and sliced
- 2 large plums, pitted and sliced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
For the Crumble Topping:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Instructions:
Prepare the Filling:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, gently combine the sliced apples and plums, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Toss everything until the fruit is evenly coated.
- Stir in the cornstarch to help thicken the filling as it bakes.
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. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in a tough crumble.
Assemble and Bake:
- Pour the apple and plum filling into the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the fruit filling.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
- Let the crumble cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream!
Tips for the Best Apple and Plum Crumble:
- Choose the right fruit: Use a combination of tart and sweet apples and plums for the best flavor balance.
- Don't overmix the crumble: Overmixing will make the topping tough. Work quickly and efficiently.
- Adjust sweetness to taste: If you prefer a sweeter crumble, feel free to add more sugar.
- Add some nuts: For extra texture and flavor, add 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts to the crumble topping.
- Make it ahead: You can assemble the crumble ahead of time and bake it just before serving.
Variations:
- Berry Crumble: Substitute the apples and plums with your favorite berries, such as blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries.
- Spiced Crumble: Add a pinch of ginger or cardamom to the crumble topping for a warm, aromatic flavor.
- Gluten-Free Crumble: Use gluten-free flour and oats to make this recipe gluten-free.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on the specific ingredients used. Use a nutrition calculator for a precise analysis. Expect a serving to contain roughly:
- Calories: 300-350
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 40-45g
- Sugar: 20-25g
- Protein: 4-5g
This apple and plum crumble recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making it a perfect addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and quick dinner ideas. It’s a delicious dish that showcases the best of homemade cooking, proving that healthy meals can also be incredibly satisfying and enjoyable. Enjoy!