Apple Oat Crumble

Name: Apple Oat Crumble
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups sliced apples (about 4 medium apples); 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 cup rolled oats; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

Highlighted under: Easy Desserts Collection

I love making Apple Oat Crumble as it perfectly captures the essence of fall with its warm, spiced apples and crunchy oat topping. Each time I bake this dish, I’m reminded of cozy family gatherings and the comforting aroma that fills my kitchen. This recipe is straightforward and allows the natural sweetness of the apples to shine through, reinforced by a mix of oats and brown sugar that creates a delightful texture. It’s a hit at any gathering, and the leftovers make for a fantastic breakfast treat!

Created by

Prudence Whitby

Last updated on 2026-02-08T02:25:37.469Z

Baking an Apple Oat Crumble has become a ritual for me, especially during the autumn months when apples are at their peak. I love experimenting with different apple varieties to see how they affect the overall flavor and texture. My favorite combo is a mix of tart Granny Smith and sweet Honeycrisp apples—this blend brings both depth and sweetness that’s hard to resist!

The crumble topping is where the magic happens. I incorporate oats, which not only add a lovely crunch but also provide a hearty feel that balances the sweet filling. I've found that letting the crumble sit for a few minutes after baking helps it set, ensuring each serving holds together beautifully.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Warm and comforting dessert perfect for chilly evenings
A delightful balance of sweet and tart flavors from fresh apples
Crunchy topping that contrasts beautifully with the tender fruit

Perfecting the Apple Filling

Choosing the right apples is crucial for a successful Apple Oat Crumble. Ideally, use a mix of sweet and tart varieties like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp. This combination provides depth of flavor and ensures your filling isn’t overly sweet. When slicing the apples, aim for uniform thickness—about 1/4-inch slices. This helps them cook evenly, becoming tender while still holding their shape during baking.

After combining the apple slices with sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice, let the mixture sit for about 10-15 minutes. This resting time allows the apples to release some of their natural juices, which will later meld beautifully with the sugars, creating a syrupy filling. Just before transferring the mixture to the baking dish, give it one final toss to distribute the sugar and spices evenly.

Crafting the Crunchy Topping

For the topping, it's essential to achieve a crumbly texture that’s not too dense. When mixing the oats, flour, brown sugar, melted butter, salt, and nutmeg, do so just until the ingredients are moistened and crumbly. Over-mixing can result in a compact topping that won't crisp up in the oven. You want it to have a sandy texture that will toast nicely while baking.

If you're looking to make this recipe a bit healthier, consider swapping half of the brown sugar for a natural sweetener, like maple syrup, which will add a unique flavor profile. Additionally, replacing some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or almond flour can enhance the nuttiness of the crumble without sacrificing texture. Just remember that these substitutes may slightly affect the baking time, so keep an eye on the topping.

Storage and Reheating Tips

When it comes to storage, Apple Oat Crumble can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to enjoy it beyond that, consider freezing it before baking. Assemble the filling and topping, then wrap the unbaked dish tightly with plastic wrap and place it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, preheat the oven and add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through and the topping becomes golden.

Reheating is simple and can be done in both the oven and microwave. For the best texture, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, until warm and crispy. In the microwave, heat in short bursts of 30 seconds, stirring in between, until heated through, although the topping may not retain its crunch. Enjoy your leftovers warm, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an added treat!

Ingredients

For the filling

4 cups sliced apples (about 4 medium apples)
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 tablespoon lemon juice

For the topping

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

Instructions

Prepare the filling

In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Toss well to ensure the apples are evenly coated. Transfer the mixture to a greased 8-inch baking dish.

Make the topping

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

Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the crumble for 35-40 minutes or until the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding chopped nuts or raisins to the topping mixture. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a truly indulgent treat!

Serving Suggestions

Apple Oat Crumble is delicious on its own, but you can elevate it even further with a few accompaniments. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or dollops of whipped cream add a delightful creaminess that perfectly contrasts the warm, spiced apples and the crunchy topping. For a more gourmet touch, consider drizzling caramel sauce over the top right before serving, enhancing both flavor and presentation.

To create a comforting breakfast option, serve the crumbles warm with a splash of milk or yogurt. This adds a great creaminess and keeps the dish cozy while transforming it into a hearty breakfast treat. Leftover crumble also makes for a delightful snack, served cold or warmed, bringing a taste of fall anytime you crave something sweet.

Variations to Explore

Feel free to play around with the filling by adding different fruits or spices. Pears are a fantastic alternative or complement to apples since they share a similar texture. You can also introduce dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for added sweetness and chewiness. For a spicier kick, incorporating ginger or a pinch of cloves can provide a unique flavor twist that deepens the seasonal warmth of the dish.

If you prefer a nutty topping, consider mixing in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans with the oats and flour. This not only enhances the crunch but adds healthy fats and a richer flavor profile. Experiment with toasting the nuts lightly before incorporating them for an even more pronounced nutty taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other fruits besides apples?

Yes, you can substitute with pears or a mix of berries for a different flavor profile.

→ How long can I store the leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.

→ Can this recipe be made ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and topping separately and assemble just before baking.

→ Is it necessary to peel the apples?

It's personal preference. Leaving the peel on adds texture and nutrients, while peeling gives a softer mouthfeel.