Are you craving a warm, comforting dessert that's also healthy and gluten-free? Look no further! This easy apple crumble recipe is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without sacrificing flavor or nutrition. It's a delightful homemade treat, ideal for a cozy night in or a special occasion. Forget complicated recipes – this quick dinner dessert is surprisingly simple to make, even for beginner cooks!
Ingredients:
For the Filling:
- 6 medium apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix), peeled, cored, and sliced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
For the Crumble Topping:
- 1 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour blend
- 1/2 cup rolled oats (certified gluten-free if needed)
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 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 or individual ramekins.
Prepare the Apple Filling:
- In a large bowl, gently combine the sliced apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. If you prefer a thicker filling, stir in the cornstarch.
Make the Crumble Topping:
- In a separate bowl, combine the gluten-free 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:
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Pour the apple filling into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the apples.
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Bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are tender. If the topping browns too quickly, loosely cover the dish with foil.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Let the apple 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 Gluten-Free Apple Crumble:
- Apple Variety: Using a mix of apple varieties adds complexity to the flavor profile.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing the crumble topping can result in a tough crust.
- Cold Butter: Using cold butter is crucial for a flaky crumble topping.
- Baking Time: Oven temperatures can vary, so keep an eye on your crumble and adjust baking time as needed.
Variations:
- Spiced Crumble: Add a pinch of ginger or cardamom to the crumble topping for a warm, aromatic twist.
- Nutty Crumble: Incorporate chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds into the crumble topping for added texture and flavor.
- Berry Crumble: Add a cup of frozen berries (such as blueberries or raspberries) to the apple filling for a delightful fruity combination.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Fat: 12-15g
- Carbohydrates: 35-40g
- Fiber: 4-5g
- Protein: 3-4g
This delicious gluten-free apple crumble recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of healthy meals and easy recipes. It’s a perfect example of how homemade cooking can be both satisfying and simple. Enjoy this best recipe for a truly delightful dessert experience!