Irresistible Apple Crumble with Brown Sugar and Cinnamon Recipe

There’s something magical about a warm apple crumble with brown sugar and cinnamon straight from the oven. The way the sweet, spiced apples bubble underneath that golden, buttery topping? Pure comfort in every bite. I still remember my mom pulling hers out of the oven when I was little—the smell would fill our whole house, and we’d all come running to the kitchen.

This recipe is my spin on that family favorite, but even simpler to make. Just a handful of basic ingredients transforms into the coziest dessert you can imagine. Tart apples get coated in brown sugar and cinnamon, then topped with an irresistible crumble that’s crisp on top and tender underneath. It’s the kind of dessert that makes any ordinary night feel special.

Why You’ll Love This Apple Crumble with Brown Sugar and Cinnamon

Trust me, this apple crumble is about to become your new go-to dessert for so many reasons:

• Effortless prep: Just slice, toss, and crumble – no fancy techniques needed
• That perfect texture: Soft cinnamon apples meet the crunchiest brown sugar topping
• Nostalgia in every bite: Classic flavors that remind you of Grandma’s kitchen
• Always a crowd-pleaser: Works for weeknights yet fancy enough for guests
• Better than pie: All the cozy vibes without the fuss of pastry dough

I make this at least twice a month – it’s that good and that easy!

Ingredients for Apple Crumble with Brown Sugar and Cinnamon

Here’s what you’ll need for the coziest apple crumble ever – I promise these simple ingredients work magic together:

• 6 cups peeled and sliced apples (my go-to is Granny Smith – their tartness balances the sweetness perfectly)
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar (dark brown gives richer flavor, but light works too)
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (spoon and level it – no packing!)
• 1/2 cup old-fashioned rolled oats (not instant – we want that texture)
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon (fresh is best – I can smell when it’s getting old)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt (just enough to make all the flavors pop)
• 1/3 cup cold butter, cubed (real butter only – and keep it chilled until the last second!)

See? Nothing fancy – just good ingredients that create something truly special together.

Equipment Needed

You’ll just need a few basic kitchen tools:

• 9×9 inch baking dish
• 2 mixing bowls (one for apples, one for topping)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• A pastry cutter or fork (or just clean hands!)

That’s it – no fancy gadgets required!

How to Make Apple Crumble with Brown Sugar and Cinnamon

Okay, let’s get baking! This is the fun part where simple ingredients transform into something magical. I’ll walk you through each step – don’t worry, it’s easier than you think.

Preparing the Apple Filling

First things first – preheat that oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating, grab those gorgeous apples you peeled and sliced. I like them about 1/4-inch thick – thin enough to soften nicely but thick enough to keep some texture. Toss them in a bowl with 1/4 cup of that brown sugar and 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon. Get in there with your hands and really coat every slice – the sugar will mix with the apple juices as it bakes and create the most amazing syrup.

Pour them into your greased baking dish and spread them evenly. Don’t worry if they mound up a bit – they’ll settle as they bake. This is when my kitchen starts smelling amazing already!

Making the Crumble Topping

Now for the good stuff – the crumble! In another bowl, mix together the flour, oats, remaining 1/4 cup brown sugar, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, and salt. Here’s my secret: rub the mixture between your fingers as you add it to the bowl – this helps distribute the cinnamon evenly.

Time for the butter! Make sure it’s cold – I even pop mine in the freezer for 5 minutes before this step. Cut it into the dry ingredients using a pastry cutter or two forks (or your fingers if you don’t mind getting messy). You want the mixture to look like coarse crumbs with some pea-sized butter bits remaining – these will melt and create those perfect crispy pockets in your topping.

Baking and Finishing

Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over your apples – no need to press it down. Pop it in the oven and let the magic happen! After about 25 minutes, peek through the oven window – you should see the topping turning golden and the apples bubbling at the edges.

It’s ready when the topping is deep golden brown and the apple juices are thick and syrupy, about 30-35 minutes total. Pro tip: if the topping browns too quickly, just tent it with foil. Let it cool for at least 10 minutes before serving – I know it’s hard to wait, but those juices need time to thicken up perfectly!

Tips for Perfect Apple Crumble with Brown Sugar and Cinnamon

After making this apple crumble countless times, I’ve learned a few tricks that make all the difference:

• Cold butter is non-negotiable! Seriously – if your butter feels even slightly soft, stick it in the freezer for 10 minutes. Those cold butter bits create the best crispy pockets in your topping.
• Slice apples evenly – about 1/4-inch thick. Too thin and they’ll turn mushy; too thick and they won’t soften properly.
• Distribute topping evenly – but don’t pack it down! Let those crumbles sit loosely for maximum crunch.
• Trust the bubbles – wait until you see thick, syrupy juices bubbling around the edges before taking it out.

One more thing – resist opening the oven door too often! Every peek lets heat escape and slows down baking.

Serving Suggestions for Apple Crumble with Brown Sugar and Cinnamon

Oh, the possibilities! My absolute favorite way to serve this crumble is still warm with a big scoop of vanilla ice cream melting over the top – that hot-cold combo is heavenly. But really, you can’t go wrong:

• A dollop of fresh whipped cream with a cinnamon dusting
• A drizzle of warm caramel sauce for extra indulgence
• A sprinkle of toasted pecans for crunch
• Plain with a cup of strong coffee for breakfast (I won’t judge!)

Honestly? It’s fantastic straight from the pan with just a spoon too…

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Here’s how to keep your apple crumble tasting fresh:

• Cool completely, then cover tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days – the topping stays surprisingly crisp!
• Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 30 seconds, or warm the whole dish in a 300°F oven for 10-15 minutes

Pro tip: Sprinkle a few drops of water over cold crumble before reheating to revive the topping’s crunch.

Apple Crumble with Brown Sugar and Cinnamon Variations

Once you’ve mastered the classic, try these fun twists to keep things interesting:

• Nutty crunch: Add 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans to the topping – toast them first for extra flavor
• Spice it up: Try adding a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon for warmth
• Berry delicious: Swap 2 cups apples for mixed berries in summer – the juices make an amazing sauce
• Oat-free option: Use almond flour instead of oats for a gluten-free version (just reduce butter slightly)

My kids love when I add chocolate chips to the topping – not traditional, but oh so good!

Nutritional Information

Nutritional values will vary based on your specific ingredients and brands. While this apple crumble contains wholesome ingredients like apples and oats, remember it’s a treat – enjoy it in moderation as part of a balanced diet!

Frequently Asked Questions About Apple Crumble with Brown Sugar and Cinnamon

What are the best apples for crumble?
You’ll want firm, tart apples that hold their shape when baked. My top picks are Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn. Avoid super sweet varieties like Red Delicious – they tend to get mushy. Mixing two types gives great flavor and texture!

Can I make this gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend (I like 1:1 baking mixes). The oats should be certified gluten-free too. The texture comes out nearly identical – I’ve served it to gluten-sensitive friends who couldn’t tell the difference.

How do I freeze apple crumble?
Freeze it before baking for best results. Assemble in a freezer-safe dish, wrap tightly in plastic and foil, and freeze up to 3 months. Bake straight from frozen, adding 10-15 extra minutes. Already baked? Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What sugar alternatives work?
For less refined sugar, coconut sugar works beautifully with a caramel-like flavor. Maple syrup (reduce other liquids slightly) or monk fruit blend also work, though the texture may vary slightly. My diabetic mom loves the coconut sugar version!

Final Thoughts

Now that you’ve got all my best tips, I hope you’ll give this apple crumble a try! Nothing makes me happier than hearing how much your family enjoys it. Snap a photo of your masterpiece and tag me – I’d love to see your take on this cozy classic!

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