Jamie Oliver’s Apple And Blackberry Crumble Recipe

If you’re in the mood for a dessert that combines the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and comforting flavors, Jamie Oliver’s Apple and Blackberry Crumble offers a deliciously easy way to indulge in the warmth of a classic British treat. Its layers of tender fruit topped with a buttery, crunchy crumble make it the ideal dish for any occasion.

What Is Jamie Oliver’s Apple And Blackberry Crumble

Jamie Oliver’s Apple and Blackberry Crumble is a delightful dessert that pairs the sweetness of apples with the tartness of blackberries, covered with a golden, crumbly topping made from a mixture of flour, sugar, and butter. It’s a modern twist on the classic crumble, using fresh, seasonal ingredients to create a comforting and irresistible treat. The tangy burst from the blackberries complements the soft apples, and the crisp crumble topping adds the perfect texture contrast.

Jamie Oliver’s Apple And Blackberry Crumble Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To make Jamie Oliver’s Apple and Blackberry Crumble, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For The Fruit Filling

• 6 large apples (preferably Bramley or another cooking variety)
• 200g blackberries (fresh or frozen)
• 2 tablespoons sugar (depending on the sweetness of your apples)
• A squeeze of lemon juice (to balance the sweetness and help prevent browning)

For The Crumble Topping

• 150g plain flour
• 100g unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
• 75g brown sugar (this adds a richer flavor)
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for a warm, spiced note)

Equipment Needed

To prepare this delicious dessert, you will need the following kitchen tools:

• A large baking dish (preferably around 20×30 cm)
• A sharp knife and chopping board (for cutting the fruit)
• A large bowl (for mixing the crumble topping)
• A pastry cutter or your hands (to mix the crumble)
• A spoon (to stir the filling ingredients)

How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Apple And Blackberry Crumble?

1. Prepare The Fruit Filling

   • Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
   • Peel, core, and slice the apples into chunks. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
   • Gently toss the apples with the blackberries, sugar, and a squeeze of lemon juice to coat them evenly.
   • Transfer the fruit mixture to a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

2. Make The Crumble Topping

   • In a separate bowl, combine the flour and brown sugar.
   • Add the cold, cubed butter and rub it into the flour mixture with your fingertips until it resembles coarse breadcrumbs. If you prefer, you can use a pastry cutter to do this more quickly.
   • Stir in the cinnamon if you’re using it for added warmth.

3. Assemble And Bake

   • Evenly scatter the crumble mixture over the prepared fruit in the baking dish.
   • Place the dish in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the fruit is bubbling underneath.
   • Allow it to cool slightly before serving, as it will be extremely hot when first out of the oven.

Expert Tips

• Use the right apples: For a more balanced crumble, choose cooking apples like Bramley. They break down well when baked, creating a smooth filling with a nice tartness. If you like your dessert sweeter, you can opt for dessert apples, but consider adding a bit more sugar.
• Frozen blackberries work fine: If fresh blackberries are not available, you can substitute with frozen ones. Just be aware that frozen fruit can release more liquid, so you may need to cook it a little longer.
• Make it ahead of time: You can prepare the crumble ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to a day before baking. This can help save time when you’re entertaining guests.
• Serve with custard or cream: A scoop of rich vanilla custard or a dollop of double cream adds a luxurious touch to this already indulgent dessert.
• Get creative with the topping: Add some rolled oats or chopped nuts (like almonds or hazelnuts) to the crumble topping for extra texture and flavor.

Jamie Oliver’s Apple and Blackberry Crumble is an iconic dessert that brings together the perfect balance of juicy, fruity sweetness and a crisp, buttery topping. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a special gathering, it’s a crowd-pleaser that can be served warm with your favorite accompaniment, like custard or whipped cream.

With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, this dessert is a testament to how good comfort food can be when made with fresh, quality produce. Try it out and indulge in a nostalgic, delicious treat.

Easy Recipe Variations For Jamie Oliver’s Apple And Blackberry Crumble

Jamie Oliver’s Apple and Blackberry Crumble is a classic dessert that blends the sweetness of apples with the tartness of blackberries, all enveloped in a golden, crumbly topping. While the traditional recipe is delicious, there are several easy variations that you can try to put your own twist on this beloved dessert.

1. Spiced Apple and Blackberry Crumble: Add a pinch of ground cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a dash of mixed spice to the fruit filling. These warm spices not only complement the sweetness of the apples but also enhance the tartness of the blackberries. For an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle some spices into the crumble topping as well.
2. Crumble with Oats: If you like a heartier topping with added texture, try incorporating rolled oats into your crumble. Mix equal parts flour and oats for the topping, and add a bit more butter for richness. This variation will give your crumble a more rustic, crunchy texture that’s perfect for those who enjoy a little extra bite.
3. Nutty Crumble: For a deeper, nutty flavor, try adding chopped nuts such as almonds, walnuts, or hazelnuts to the crumble topping. The nuts will toast slightly during baking, adding a wonderful crunch and a rich depth of flavor. This variation works especially well when you’re using sweeter apples like Braeburns or Fujis.
4. Vegan Apple and Blackberry Crumble: If you want to make a plant-based version of the crumble, simply swap out the butter in the crumble topping for coconut oil or dairy-free margarine. You can also replace any non-vegan ingredients in the filling, such as butter or cream, with plant-based alternatives like almond milk or coconut cream.
5. Crumble with a Citrus Twist: Elevate the flavors of your crumble with a citrusy zing. Add some grated lemon or orange zest to the fruit filling to brighten it up. A small squeeze of lemon juice into the blackberry mixture can help balance the sweetness of the apples and the tartness of the berries.
6. Berry Medley Crumble: Experiment by swapping blackberries with other seasonal berries. Strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries can all work well with apples, offering a different mix of sweetness and tartness. You can even combine different berries for a colorful and flavorful twist.
7. Ginger Apple and Blackberry Crumble: Add some finely grated fresh ginger to the filling for a subtle spice that pairs beautifully with the fruit. Ginger’s warming quality complements both the apples and blackberries, giving the crumble a unique, aromatic flavor.

By making these variations, you can keep this classic dessert fresh and exciting every time you bake it, adapting it to different seasons, dietary needs, or personal preferences.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

When you have leftover apple and blackberry crumble, it’s essential to store it properly to maintain its freshness and flavor. Here are some best practices for storing your crumble:

1. Cool the Crumble Before Storing: Allow the crumble to cool completely at room temperature before storing it. Storing a hot crumble can create condensation inside the storage container, leading to sogginess in the crumble topping.
2. Refrigeration: After cooling, cover the crumble with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh in the fridge. It will keep for about 2 to 3 days. The fruit filling should still be juicy, but the crumble topping might lose some of its crunchiness.
3. Freezing Leftovers: If you have more crumble than you can finish in a few days, consider freezing it. Wrap the cooled crumble in several layers of plastic wrap, then place it in a resealable freezer bag or airtight container. This will help prevent freezer burn and keep the crumble fresh. Frozen apple and blackberry crumble can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
4. Reheating: To reheat leftovers, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. If the topping has lost its crunch, you can increase the heat slightly for the last few minutes to crisp it up again. Alternatively, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave, though this may not revive the topping’s texture as effectively as using the oven.
5. Reheating from Frozen: When reheating from frozen, it’s best to bake the crumble at 350°F (175°C) for 40-45 minutes, or until heated thoroughly. You may want to cover the crumble with foil initially to prevent the top from over-browning while the inside heats up.

By following these storage practices, you can enjoy your crumble for several days without sacrificing its flavor or texture.

What Goes Well With Apple And Blackberry Crumble?

Apple and blackberry crumble is a delightful dessert that pairs wonderfully with a variety of accompaniments. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner or a special gathering, these additions will elevate the flavors and textures of your dish:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream is the classic pairing for a warm fruit crumble. The coldness of the ice cream contrasts beautifully with the warm, soft fruit and crumbly topping. If you’re feeling adventurous, try other flavors like cinnamon or caramel for added richness.
2. Custard: A rich, velvety custard is another fantastic companion for apple and blackberry crumble. Whether it’s homemade or store-bought, custard adds a smooth, comforting layer to the dessert that complements the fruit’s tartness and the crumble’s crunchiness.
3. Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream, either sweetened or unsweetened, is a simple and elegant addition. The lightness of the cream balances out the sweetness of the crumble, offering a delicate texture contrast.
4. Clotted Cream: For an indulgent touch, serve the crumble with a dollop of clotted cream. This luxurious cream is rich and thick, and its creamy texture adds depth to the crumble’s flavors, especially when paired with the tangy blackberries.
5. Yogurt: For a slightly tangier and lighter option, serve the crumble with a spoonful of Greek yogurt. The yogurt’s richness and slight acidity balance the sweetness of the dessert and provide a refreshing contrast.
6. Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of warm caramel sauce can add an extra layer of sweetness and depth to your crumble. The caramel’s rich, buttery flavor pairs beautifully with the fruit and crumble, making each bite even more decadent.
7. Hot Tea or Coffee: If you’re serving the crumble as part of an afternoon tea or a cozy dessert after dinner, consider pairing it with a warm beverage. Earl Grey tea, chamomile, or even a rich cup of coffee can complement the flavors of the crumble without overwhelming them.

By combining your apple and blackberry crumble with one or more of these accompaniments, you’ll elevate the dessert to new heights and create a memorable dining experience.

Conclusion

Apple and blackberry crumble is a beloved dessert that brings together the tartness of blackberries and the sweetness of apples in a comforting, golden topping. Whether you stick with the classic recipe or experiment with variations, there are endless ways to customize this dessert to suit your taste. From adding spices or oats to making it vegan or using different fruits, this dessert can easily be adapted to suit different occasions, seasons, and dietary preferences.

Properly storing leftovers ensures you can enjoy your crumble for days, with simple reheating techniques that keep the flavor and texture intact. Whether you serve it with vanilla ice cream, custard, or whipped cream, the right accompaniments will enhance the dish and make it even more delightful.

In the end, apple and blackberry crumble is a versatile, easy-to-make dessert that everyone can enjoy, and with these tips and variations, it’s easy to keep this classic dessert fresh and exciting!

FAQs

What Ingredients Do I Need For Jamie Oliver’s Apple And Blackberry Crumble Recipe?

For Jamie Oliver’s apple and blackberry crumble, you will need apples (preferably Bramley or another cooking variety), blackberries, butter, plain flour, sugar (such as caster or golden), and oats. You will also need some ground cinnamon, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors.

How Do I Prepare The Apples And Blackberries For Jamie Oliver’s Crumble?

To prepare the apples, peel, core, and slice them into thin wedges. For the blackberries, simply wash them gently under cold water. Combine the apples and blackberries in a baking dish, then sprinkle with sugar, a little lemon zest, and a pinch of cinnamon to add flavor.

What Is The Method For Making The Crumble Topping?

To make the crumble topping, mix flour, oats, sugar, and salt in a bowl. Rub in cold, cubed butter with your fingers until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. You can also add a bit of ground almonds for extra texture if you prefer.

Can I Use Frozen Blackberries For This Crumble Recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen blackberries in Jamie Oliver’s apple and blackberry crumble. Just be sure to thaw them first and drain any excess liquid to avoid a soggy crumble.

How Long Do I Need To Cook Jamie Oliver’s Apple And Blackberry Crumble?

Bake the crumble at 190°C (375°F) for about 40-45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the fruit is bubbling at the edges. Keep an eye on it to avoid over-browning.

Can I Make This Crumble Ahead Of Time?

Yes, you can prepare the apple and blackberry mixture and the crumble topping separately. Store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. When you’re ready to serve, just assemble the crumble and bake as usual.

What Can I Serve With Jamie Oliver’s Apple And Blackberry Crumble?

Jamie Oliver’s apple and blackberry crumble is delicious when served warm with a dollop of double cream, vanilla ice cream, or custard. The richness of these accompaniments pairs perfectly with the fruit’s tartness.

Can I Use Other Fruits For This Crumble Recipe?

Yes, you can easily swap out the apples and blackberries for other fruits like pears, plums, or raspberries. Just keep in mind that different fruits may require slight adjustments to the sugar levels or baking time.

Is Jamie Oliver’s Apple And Blackberry Crumble Gluten-free?

Jamie Oliver’s apple and blackberry crumble recipe contains regular flour, making it not gluten-free. However, you can substitute the flour with a gluten-free alternative like rice flour or a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

How Do I Store Leftover Apple And Blackberry Crumble?

Store any leftover crumble in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10-15 minutes, or until hot and crispy.