Jamie Oliver’s Simple Apple Crumble is exactly what it says on the tin – a straightforward, no-fuss dessert that brings together the warm, comforting flavors of baked apples topped with a crunchy, buttery crumble. It’s a classic British treat but Jamie’s take makes it super easy and quick to pull together. No complicated steps, no fancy ingredients, just honest, homey goodness.
What makes it special? The balance. The apples get soft and juicy as they bake, releasing natural sweetness and a hint of tartness. The crumble topping? It’s golden, buttery and just crumbly enough to add texture without overshadowing the fruit. This dish is the kind of dessert that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day.
Jamie Oliver Simple Apple Crumble Recipe
Ingredients Needed
The beauty here is the simplicity. You won’t find any weird stuff or dozens of spices. Jamie keeps it real and approachable.
- Apples: Usually Bramley or another cooking apple variety. They’re tart which helps balance the sweetness of the crumble.
- Sugar: Both for the apples and the crumble. Brown sugar works great here for that rich, caramel-like flavor.
- Plain flour: The backbone of the crumble topping.
- Butter: Cold, diced butter creates that perfect crumbly texture.
- Optional spices: Sometimes cinnamon or nutmeg is added for a subtle warmth but Jamie often keeps it pure and simple.
That’s it. Four or five ingredients. No eggs, no heavy cream. Just good basics.
Equipment Needed
Here, the list is minimal which is why this recipe is so accessible.
- Mixing bowls: One or two, to toss apples and mix crumble.
- Peeler and corer: To prep the apples.
- Baking dish: A shallow ovenproof dish, like a ceramic or glass pie dish.
- Fork or fingers: For rubbing the butter into the flour to create that crumble texture.
- Oven: To bake and bring everything together.
No fancy gadgets. No mixers. It’s all about hands-on, home cooking.
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Simple Apple Crumble
This is where the magic happens and it’s really not complicated at all.
- Prepare the apples: Peel, core and slice the apples into even chunks. Toss them with a bit of sugar. this draws out the juices and starts the softening process in the oven.
- Make the crumble topping: Mix the flour and sugar in a bowl. Add the cold, diced butter. Then use your fingertips (or a fork) to rub the butter into the dry ingredients until you get a breadcrumb-like texture. No lumps of butter but don’t overwork it or it will get greasy.
- Assemble: Spread the apples evenly in your baking dish. Then sprinkle the crumble topping all over the fruit, covering it completely but not packing it down.
- Bake: Pop the dish into a preheated oven (usually around 180°C/350°F) for about 35-40 minutes. You want the topping golden and crisp and the apples bubbling underneath.
- Serve: Best eaten warm, with cream, custard or vanilla ice cream on the side.
What I Learnt
Making this crumble really showed me how simple ingredients can shine when handled with care. It’s a reminder that cooking isn’t always about fancy techniques or exotic flavors. sometimes, it’s about respecting the ingredients and letting them do the talking.
Also, the crumble taught me patience. Rubbing cold butter into flour by hand takes a bit of time but it’s so worth it. That crumbly texture? You can’t replicate it with shortcuts.
Lastly, I noticed how a humble dish like this can feel so comforting. It’s the kind of food that connects to memories and emotions, making it perfect for sharing with friends or family.
Recipe Tweaks For Jamie Oliver’s Simple Apple Crumble
Jamie Oliver’s apple crumble is a classic for a reason-simple, comforting and delicious. A little twist can make it even better or suit your mood. Want it extra crispy? Add a handful of chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans into the crumble topping. They add that satisfying crunch and a subtle, earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with the apples.
If you’re a spice fan, a sprinkle of cinnamon, nutmeg or even a touch of ground ginger in the apple mix can elevate the dish instantly. These warm spices wake up the apples and add layers of aroma.
For a richer crumble, swap some of the plain flour for ground oats or almond flour. This not only gives it a nutty flavor but also a more interesting texture. If you like your crumble extra buttery, toss in an extra tablespoon or two of butter into the topping. just don’t overdo it or it turns greasy.
If you want to lighten things up, you can reduce the sugar or use a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup. Jamie’s recipe is quite forgiving, so feel free to experiment with the sweetness level based on your preference or the tartness of your apples.
Lastly, consider mixing different apple varieties. Combining a tart Granny Smith with a sweeter Gala or Fuji adds complexity to the filling. some apples hold their shape better while others break down to create that soft, juicy layer beneath the crumble.
Storage Tips For Leftovers
Apple crumble tastes best fresh out of the oven but leftovers? They’re still fantastic with the right storage. Once cooled to room temperature, cover the crumble tightly with cling film or transfer it to an airtight container.
Keep it in the fridge and try to eat it within 2-3 days. The topping might lose some crispness but you can easily bring it back by reheating in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10 minutes. Avoid the microwave if you want to keep that crunchy texture. it tends to make the topping soggy.
If you want to store it longer, freeze the crumble in a freezer-safe dish, well wrapped in foil or plastic wrap. It’ll keep for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and then reheat in the oven to revive that fresh-baked magic.
Pro tip: If the crumble topping softens too much after storage, sprinkle a little extra crumble mix on top before reheating. It’s an easy way to freshen it up and keep the crunch alive.
What To Eat With Jamie Oliver’s Simple Apple Crumble?
Apple crumble is a comforting dessert but pairing it with the right sides can turn it into something spectacular. The classic choice is a generous scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. The cold, smooth ice cream melts into the warm crumble, creating that perfect balance of hot and cold, crunchy and creamy.
Custard is another traditional favorite. Its silky texture and mild sweetness soak into the crumble, making every bite luscious and indulgent. Warm custard especially complements the spices in the apple filling.
If you want to mix things up, try Greek yogurt or mascarpone. The slight tanginess of yogurt cuts through the sweetness and richness while mascarpone adds a velvety richness without overpowering the crumble.
For a grown-up twist, drizzle a little salted caramel sauce or a splash of calvados (apple brandy) over the crumble. These add depth and a hint of sophistication that make the dish feel extra special.
FAQs
What Apples Are Best For Jamie Oliver’s Apple Crumble Recipe?
Jamie recommends using Bramley apples for their tartness, which balances perfectly with the sweetness of the crumble topping.
Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Apple Crumble Ahead Of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the crumble topping and apple filling the day before, then assemble and bake when you’re ready.
How Do I Make The Crumble Topping Extra Crispy?
To get that crispy, golden topping, make sure to rub the butter into the flour until it resembles breadcrumbs, and bake it at a high temperature.
