I remember the first time I made an apple crumble. It was a cold winter evening, and I wanted to make something warm and comforting. My mom had always made the best apple crumble, and I decided to try it out on my own. The smell of cinnamon and sugar filled the house as the crumble baked, and when it finally came out of the oven, it was perfect-crispy, golden, and full of flavor. It reminded me of family gatherings and cozy evenings spent together.
That’s why Jamie Oliver’s Simple Apple Crumble recipe is so special. It’s not just a dessert; it’s a slice of nostalgia, simplicity, and comfort, all wrapped up in one dish. You don’t need fancy ingredients or hours of preparation-just the basics and a little bit of love. Let me walk you through this amazing recipe!
Jamie Oliver’s Simple Apple Crumble Recipe
Jamie’s apple crumble recipe is a no-fuss, delicious dessert that anyone can make. It’s designed to be quick, easy, and crowd-pleasing, with a good balance of sweetness and tartness from the apples. I love how Jamie makes it clear that this recipe is all about simplicity. It’s about getting the most flavor from the ingredients you have, without overcomplicating the process. I’ve made this crumble dozens of times, and every time it’s just as good.
Ingredients Needed
Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need for Jamie’s Simple Apple Crumble:
- 6 large apples (typically Bramley or Granny Smith, for that perfect tartness)
- 200g plain flour (this forms the base of the crumble topping)
- 100g butter (unsalted for control over the flavor)
- 100g caster sugar (for a little sweetness)
- 1-2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional, but it gives a lovely warmth)
- A pinch of salt (it balances out the sweetness)
- Juice of half a lemon (to brighten up the flavors)
- Optional: 50g oats (for extra crunch)
I remember when I first experimented with this recipe, I didn’t have oats on hand, but I added them the next time. The crunchiness really made a difference! It’s such a versatile recipe that you can tweak depending on your mood.
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Simple Apple Crumble
Here’s how to bring everything together:
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Preheat Your Oven To 180°C (350°F).
This step is important to make sure the crumble crisps up perfectly.
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Prepare The Apples
Peel, core, and slice the apples. Toss them in a bowl with lemon juice, sugar, and a pinch of salt. The lemon juice will help prevent the apples from browning and add a fresh tang.
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Make The Crumble Topping
In another bowl, combine the flour, butter, and sugar. Rub the butter into the flour with your fingertips until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. If you like your crumble a bit heartier, add the oats here.
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Assemble The Crumble
Layer the apples in a baking dish, then scatter the crumble topping evenly over the apples. Press it down slightly to ensure it stays in place.
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Bake
Place in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes until the top is golden brown and the apples are soft and bubbling. The smell will be incredible!
Ingredient Science Spotlight
Every ingredient in this apple crumble serves a specific purpose, and understanding the science behind them helps create the best result:
- Apples: The choice of apple is crucial. A good apple for crumble needs to hold its shape when baked. Tart varieties like Granny Smith or Bramley apples work best. The natural pectin in apples helps thicken the juices when they cook, creating that perfect, syrupy filling.
- Butter: Butter is key for making the crumble topping flaky. The fat in the butter coats the flour and prevents gluten from forming too much, keeping the topping tender and crumbly.
- Sugar: Sugar not only sweetens the crumble but also helps caramelize the topping, giving it that golden-brown color and slightly crisp texture.
- Flour: The flour gives the crumble structure. All-purpose or plain flour works best, but you could swap it for whole wheat if you prefer a denser topping.
- Cinnamon and salt: The spices elevate the flavor of the apples and add complexity. A pinch of salt balances out the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
Expert Tips
If you’re looking to take this simple recipe to the next level, here are some tips I’ve learned from years of baking:
- Use cold butter: For the best crumble topping, make sure your butter is cold. If it’s too warm, the crumble won’t be as flaky.
- Let the crumble rest: After baking, let it cool slightly before serving. This allows the juices to settle and makes it easier to dish out.
- Serve with a twist: A dollop of whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or even some custard can turn this simple crumble into an indulgent treat.
- Seasoning: If you’re a fan of deeper flavors, try adding a pinch of ground nutmeg or a splash of vanilla extract to the apple filling. It adds warmth and depth.
- Make-ahead option: You can prepare the crumble topping ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just assemble the crumble when you’re ready to bake.
Recipe Variations
Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, there are endless variations you can try:
- Berry and apple crumble: Add mixed berries like raspberries or blueberries to the apple filling for a fruity twist. The tanginess of the berries pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the apples.
- Nuts in the topping: Try adding chopped almonds, pecans, or walnuts to the crumble topping. They’ll bring an extra crunch and nutty flavor.
- Oat crumble: For a more rustic texture, replace half of the flour with oats. This makes the topping slightly more chewy and hearty.
- Spiced apple crumble: If you’re a fan of warming spices, add a little bit of ground ginger, cardamom, or cloves to the apple filling for a fragrant twist.
- Gluten-free option: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of regular flour, and be sure to check that your oats are certified gluten-free.
Final Words
There’s something magical about apple crumble-its comforting warmth, its delicious balance of sweet and tart, and the crunch of the crumble topping. Jamie Oliver’s version is simple, but it doesn’t cut corners on flavor. It’s the kind of recipe that becomes a staple, something you can easily make for yourself on a quiet night or share with friends and family during the holidays.
The beauty of a good apple crumble is that it’s forgiving. Even if you don’t have all the ingredients, it still works. You can make it your own by adding whatever extras you have on hand, like a handful of raisins or a bit of orange zest.
FAQs
What Apples Are Best For Jamie Oliver’s Simple Apple Crumble?
Use tart apples like Bramley for a great balance of sweetness and tartness.
Can I Make The Crumble Ahead Of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the crumble topping in advance and store it in the fridge.
How Can I Make The Crumble Gluten-free?
Simply swap the regular flour for a gluten-free flour blend, and you’re good to go!