Imagine a dessert so light and airy, it feels like a gentle spring breeze. That's the magic of our Apple Blossom Dessert – a simple yet elegant treat perfect for a springtime gathering or a quiet evening at home. This recipe offers a delightful balance of sweet apples and a delicate, subtly spiced crumble, creating a harmonious flavor profile that's both comforting and refreshing. It's the perfect example of how delicious dishes can also be easy recipes, making homemade cooking accessible to everyone.
Ingredients:
For the Apple Filling:
- 4 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp recommended), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
For the Crumble Topping:
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 6 tablespoons (3 ounces) cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Instructions:
Preparing the Apple Filling:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch square baking dish.
- In a large bowl, gently toss the sliced apples with granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and lemon juice. Ensure the apples are evenly coated.
Making the Crumble Topping:
- In a separate bowl, combine flour, rolled 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; some larger pieces are fine.
Assembling and Baking the Dessert:
- Pour the apple filling into the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the apple filling.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are tender. If the topping browns too quickly, loosely cover the dish with aluminum foil.
- Let the Apple Blossom Dessert cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Tips for Success:
- For a more intense apple flavor, use a combination of different apple varieties.
- Don't overmix the crumble topping, as this can result in a tough crust.
- If you prefer a crispier topping, bake for a few extra minutes.
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream makes a delicious accompaniment.
Variations:
- Nutty Delight: Add 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts to the crumble topping for added texture and flavor.
- Spiced it Up: Experiment with different spices like cardamom or ginger for a unique twist.
- Berry Burst: Incorporate 1/2 cup of fresh or frozen berries into the apple filling for a delightful fruity addition.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 250-300 Fat: 12-15g Saturated Fat: 7-9g Carbohydrates: 35-40g Sugar: 20-25g Protein: 3-4g
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used. This recipe provides a quick dinner idea or a delightful dessert, perfect for those seeking healthy meals without sacrificing flavor. Enjoy creating your own delicious version of this Apple Blossom Dessert!