When the crisp autumn air starts to roll in, there’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of a freshly baked fruit crumble wafting through the kitchen. This Apple and Pear Crumble recipe is the perfect blend of sweet and tart flavors, with a crunchy oat topping that will have you reaching for seconds. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply craving a cozy dessert on a chilly evening, this dish is sure to delight your taste buds and warm your soul.
Ingredients:
Produce:
- 2 cups Apples, peeled and sliced
- 2 cups Pears, peeled and sliced
Breakfast Foods:
- 1 1/2 cups Rolled oats
Baking & Spices:
- 1/2 cup All-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups Brown sugar
- 1 tsp Cinnamon, ground
Nuts & Seeds:
- 1/2 cup Almonds, sliced or chopped
Dairy:
- 1/2 cup Butter, cold and diced
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish or pie plate with butter or non-stick spray.
- Prepare the Fruit: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced apples and pears. Toss with a sprinkle of cinnamon and a tablespoon of brown sugar. Transfer the fruit mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Make the Crumble Topping: In a separate bowl, mix together the rolled oats, all-purpose flour, remaining brown sugar, and ground cinnamon. Add the cold diced butter and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to incorporate it into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the sliced almonds.
- Assemble and Bake: Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the fruit mixture in the baking dish, covering it completely. Press down gently to compact the topping slightly.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the fruit is bubbly and the topping is golden brown and crisp.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove the crumble from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy it warm, either on its own or topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Fruit Varieties: Feel free to experiment with different types of apples and pears to find your favorite flavor combination. Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji apples are great choices, while Bosc or Anjou pears add a lovely sweetness.
- Nut-Free Option: If you have nut allergies or prefer to omit the almonds, you can simply leave them out or substitute them with chopped pecans, walnuts, or sunflower seeds for added crunch.
- Gluten-Free Version: Use certified gluten-free oats and a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
Q: Can I use frozen fruit instead of fresh? A: Yes, you can use frozen fruit if fresh is not available. However, be sure to thaw and drain the fruit before using it in the recipe to prevent excess moisture.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time? A: Absolutely! You can assemble the crumble ahead of time and refrigerate it, unbaked, for up to 24 hours. Simply bake it when ready to serve.
Q: How should I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover crumble in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave or oven before enjoying.
Q: Can I add other spices to the crumble topping? A: Of course! Feel free to customize the flavor of the crumble topping by adding spices like nutmeg, ginger, or cardamom for a unique twist.
Keto and Low Carb Versions:
For those following a keto or low-carb lifestyle, here are some modifications you can make to enjoy a guilt-free version of this Apple and Pear Crumble:
- Low Carb Sweetener: Replace the brown sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener such as erythritol, stevia, or monk fruit sweetener.
- Almond Flour Topping: Substitute almond flour for the all-purpose flour in the crumble topping to reduce the carb content.
- Butter Alternative: Use ghee or coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option.
By making these simple swaps, you can indulge in the cozy flavors of this dessert without derailing your low-carb goals.
Apple and Pear Crumble is the epitome of fall comfort food, bringing together the natural sweetness of seasonal fruits with a crunchy, buttery topping that’s simply irresistible. Whether you’re enjoying it with loved ones around the dinner table or treating yourself to a solo indulgence, this classic dessert is sure to warm your heart and satisfy your cravings. So embrace the season’s bounty, whip up a batch of this delightful crumble, and savor every delicious spoonful!
