Apple Oat Crumble

Name: Apple Oat Crumble
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 4 large apples, peeled, cored, and sliced; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour; 1 cup rolled oats; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: The Baking Corner

I absolutely love making this Apple Oat Crumble, especially during the fall when apples are plentiful. The combination of tender, spiced apples and a crunchy oat topping creates a delightful contrast in textures and flavors. Each bite is a warm hug, making it the perfect dessert to share with family and friends. It's easy to prepare and offers a comforting aroma that fills the kitchen while it bakes. Whether served warm with a scoop of ice cream or on its own, this crumble is sure to be a hit at any gathering.

Created by

Sophia Lane

Last updated on 2026-02-07T23:37:36.076Z

When I first made this Apple Oat Crumble, I was looking to create a dessert that would showcase the natural sweetness of apples without overwhelming them with sugar. Using a blend of cinnamon and nutmeg adds warmth to the dish, making it feel like home. I discovered that layering the apples with lemon juice not only enhances their flavor but also prevents them from turning brown too quickly.

One of the best tips I’ve learned is to let the crumble cool slightly before serving. This helps the juices thicken up a bit, resulting in a slice that holds together beautifully. I love serving it with homemade whipped cream; it’s the perfect finishing touch and takes this comfort dish to the next level!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
The heartwarming aroma of baked apples fills your home
Crunchy oat topping provides a satisfying texture
Simple ingredients make it easy to whip up on any day

Understanding the Apples

Selecting the right apples is crucial for the success of your Apple Oat Crumble. Varieties such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji provide the ideal balance of sweetness and tartness, which enhances the final flavor. Make sure to peel and core the apples thoroughly to achieve a uniform texture. Slicing them into even wedges ensures they cook evenly, becoming tender without becoming mushy. If you're experimenting with different apple types, note that firmer apples will hold their shape better, maintaining a delightful contrast against the crumble topping.

After slicing the apples, tossing them with lemon juice prevents browning and adds a bright flavor that complements the spices. While the cinnamon and nutmeg provide warmth, the balance of brown sugar brings caramelization during baking. For an extra flavor twist, consider adding a dash of vanilla extract or even some cranberries for tartness; they can elevate the classic profile of the dish.

Perfecting the Topping

The topping is where the magic happens, providing a satisfying crunch to the soft apples. It’s essential to mix the components until they achieve a crumbly texture without overmixing, which can lead to a dense result. Using rolled oats gives a heartiness that can stand up to the moist filling without getting soggy. If you only have quick oats on hand, they are acceptable, but you may find the texture less substantial. For a variation, feel free to introduce chopped nuts or seeds, adding both crunch and nutrients.

When it comes to melting the butter, I recommend using unsalted butter for better control over the sugars you’re adding. Allow the mixture to cool slightly before incorporating it into the dry ingredients to avoid clumping. Once the topping is evenly dispersed over the apples, press it down gently; this helps it form a delicious crust as it bakes. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes of baking, as you want those edges to be golden brown for optimal flavor.

Ingredients

For the Filling

4 large apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

For the Topping

1 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

Prepare the Apples

In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples with lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, brown sugar, and flour. Toss until well-coated, then transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.

Make the Topping

In another bowl, mix together the oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, melted butter, and salt until crumbly. Spread the topping evenly over the apple mixture.

Bake the Crumble

Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown. Let cool for 10 minutes before serving.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, add a handful of chopped nuts to the topping for added crunch. You can also use a mix of apples for more complex flavors.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you're considering preparing the Apple Oat Crumble ahead of time, you can assemble the filling and topping separately and store them in the refrigerator. Just layer them in your baking dish an hour or so before baking to ensure everything is fresh. This way, you can have a homemade dessert ready to pop in the oven almost instantly, ideal for busy weekdays or unexpected guests.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, consider doing so in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This will restore the crumble's crunch. Alternatively, you can microwave individual servings, although the topping may lose its crispness. To enjoy it at its best, serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Scaling and Variations

This recipe can easily be scaled up or down depending on your needs. For a larger gathering, double the ingredients and bake it in a larger dish. Keep the baking time similar but check for doneness regularly—more volume may require an additional 10-15 minutes. Conversely, if you want to make a smaller batch, use a smaller baking dish and adjust the ingredient quantities accordingly; just be vigilant about reducing the baking time to avoid overcooking.

For those looking to switch things up, consider adding a layer of other fruits, such as berries or pears, alongside the apples. This not only diversifies the flavors but also enhances the nutritional profile. Additionally, if you're gluten-free, substitute oat and all-purpose flour with gluten-free alternatives, such as almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend; just be aware that texture may slightly vary.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this crumble ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the filling and topping separately and refrigerate them. Just assemble and bake when you're ready to serve.

→ What type of apples work best for this recipe?

I recommend using a mix of tart apples like Granny Smith and sweet apples like Honeycrisp for a balanced flavor.

→ Can I substitute the brown sugar?

Definitely! You can use coconut sugar or granulated sugar, though it may slightly alter the flavor.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free oats and flour in the recipe.