Classic Apple Crumble Recipe

Make the most of seasonal British apples with this comforting homemade apple crumble recipe, featuring tender cinnamon-spiced fruit and a golden, buttery topping.

Written by

Sheila Frampton

Make the most of seasonal British apples with this comforting homemade apple crumble recipe. With a golden, buttery topping and soft, cinnamon-spiced fruit, it is a lovely pudding for a crisp autumn day.

There is something particularly welcoming about the smell of apple crumble baking in the oven. A traditional British favourite, it is wonderfully simple to make and even better served warm with custard, cream or vanilla ice cream.

Combining tangy Bramley apples with a crisp, lightly sweetened crumble topping, this easy recipe is ideal for a family Sunday lunch or a relaxed afternoon at home. Here is everything you need to make a delicious homemade apple crumble.

Golden homemade apple crumble in a baking dish
Fresh red apples in a wooden crate

Ingredients

  • Serves: 6; Preparation: 15 minutes; Cooking: 35–40 minutes
  • For the apple filling
  • 1kg Bramley cooking apples (weighed before peeling)
  • 75g caster sugar
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • For the crumble topping
  • 175g plain flour
  • 100g cold unsalted butter, cubed
  • 75g demerara sugar
  • 40g rolled oats
  • A small pinch of salt

Method

  1. Preheat the oven: Heat to 190°C (170°C fan / Gas Mark 5). Lightly butter a medium ovenproof dish.
  2. Prepare the apples: Peel, core and chop the apples into bite-sized chunks. Toss with the caster sugar, cinnamon and lemon juice.
  3. Fill the dish: Spread the apple mixture evenly in the baking dish.
  4. Make the topping: Rub the cold butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs. Stir in the demerara sugar, oats and salt.
  5. Bake: Sprinkle the topping over the apples without pressing it down. Bake for 35–40 minutes, until golden and bubbling at the edges. Cover loosely with foil if the topping browns too quickly.
  6. Serve: Let stand for 5–10 minutes and enjoy warm with custard, cream or vanilla ice cream.
A serving of apple crumble

Tips for the Perfect Apple Crumble

  • Choose the right apples: Bramley apples soften beautifully and their sharpness balances the sweet topping. Replace a few with eating apples for a firmer filling.
  • Keep the butter cold: Cold butter helps make a light, crumbly topping. Avoid overworking the mixture.
  • Make it your own: Add a handful of blackberries for a seasonal twist, or a little extra cinnamon.

Why you will love this recipe

  • A seasonal favourite: A lovely way to enjoy British apples during autumn.
  • Simple and comforting: Familiar ingredients and straightforward steps.
  • Perfect for sharing: Serves six and makes a welcoming finish to a Sunday lunch.

Whether you prefer yours with custard or vanilla ice cream, homemade apple crumble is sure to become a favourite in the cooler months.

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