Jamie Oliver’s Simple Apple Crumble Recipe

Jamie Oliver’s Simple Apple Crumble is the epitome of comfort food that delivers a warm, irresistible blend of sweet, tart apples and a crunchy, buttery topping. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to special gatherings.

What Is Jamie Oliver’s Simple Apple Crumble

Jamie Oliver’s Simple Apple Crumble is a straightforward dessert recipe that celebrates the classic combination of baked apples and a crisp, buttery crumble topping. Using just a few simple ingredients, this dish is both accessible and satisfying.

It features a traditional fruit filling, made from tender, spiced apples, which is topped with a crumble mixture of flour, butter, sugar, and oats. The result is a perfect balance of textures, with soft apples and a crunchy, golden topping that creates a delightful contrast in every bite.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity-no fancy ingredients or complicated techniques. It’s the kind of dish that anyone, from a beginner to an experienced cook, can easily whip up. It’s versatile, too-you can swap in other fruits if you prefer, but the apple version remains a beloved classic.

Jamie Oliver’s Simple Apple Crumble Recipe

Ingredients Needed

The ingredients required for Jamie Oliver’s Simple Apple Crumble are simple, yet each one plays a key role in achieving the perfect balance of flavor and texture:

• Apples (about 6 medium-sized) – A good apple crumble starts with a tart, slightly sweet apple that can hold its shape during baking. Varieties like Bramley, Granny Smith, or Gala work well.
• Butter (150g) – Provides richness and helps create the perfect crumbly topping. Cold butter is typically preferred for the crumble topping.
• Plain flour (150g) – The foundation of the crumble topping. This forms the bulk of the mixture that gives it its structure.
• Caster sugar (100g) – Sweetens the crumble and adds a slight golden crispness as it bakes.
• Brown sugar (50g) – Adds a hint of molasses flavor, making the topping even more flavorful.
• Oats (optional, about 50g) – These give the crumble a slightly nutty texture, though they’re optional.
• Cinnamon (1 tsp) – To spice up the apple filling and add a warm depth of flavor.
• Lemon juice (1 tbsp) – Brightens up the apples and balances the sweetness.

Equipment Needed

Making Jamie Oliver’s Simple Apple Crumble doesn’t require anything fancy, but here are the tools you’ll need:

• Oven-proof dish (approximately 1.5L capacity) – A medium-sized dish that’s deep enough to hold both the apples and crumble topping.
• Mixing bowls – For combining the apples with sugar and spices, as well as for preparing the crumble topping.
• Pastry cutter or fork – To cut the cold butter into the flour and sugar, creating the perfect crumbly texture.
• Peeler and knife – To peel, core, and chop the apples into even pieces.
• Measuring spoons – To measure out the spices and sugar.
• Spatula or spoon – For mixing and stirring.

How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Simple Apple Crumble?

1. Preheat your oven: Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F) or 160°C (320°F) for fan-assisted ovens. This ensures it’s hot enough to bake the crumble to perfection.
2. Prepare the apples: Peel, core, and slice the apples into bite-sized pieces. Toss the apples in a mixing bowl with a little bit of lemon juice and ground cinnamon. Add in some of the sugar (about 50g) and mix until the apples are coated.
3. Prepare the crumble topping: In a separate bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and oats (if using). Add the cold butter and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to rub the butter into the flour mixture. Continue until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Assemble the crumble: Place the spiced apples in your oven-proof dish and spread them out evenly. Sprinkle the crumble topping generously over the apples, ensuring that it covers the filling completely.
5. Bake: Put the crumble in the preheated oven and bake for around 40-45 minutes, or until the topping is golden and crisp, and the apples are bubbling up around the edges.
6. Serve: Allow the crumble to cool slightly before serving. It’s best enjoyed warm, often with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or custard on the side.

Expert Tips

• Use mixed apple varieties: For a more complex flavor, try mixing different types of apples. Combining sweet and tart varieties will give your crumble depth.
• Make ahead: You can prepare the apple filling and crumble topping ahead of time. Store the crumble topping in the fridge, and assemble everything right before baking for a quick dessert.
• Extra crispy topping: For an even crispier topping, sprinkle a handful of oats or chopped nuts (like almonds or walnuts) on top of the crumble before baking.
• Experiment with flavors: Don’t be afraid to add extra spices such as nutmeg, ginger, or cardamom to the apple filling for a personalized twist.
• Serve with a twist: For an even richer experience, serve your crumble with custard, whipped cream, or a scoop of your favorite ice cream.

Jamie Oliver’s Simple Apple Crumble is the kind of dessert that brings people together, filling your kitchen with delightful aromas and your heart with warmth. It’s straightforward yet incredibly satisfying, making it the perfect go-to recipe for all occasions.

Whether you’re an experienced baker or just looking for an easy, delicious treat, this crumble delivers the comfort of homemade goodness with minimal effort. So, grab your apples and get baking-the result will be a comforting dish that’s hard to resist!.

Easy Recipe Variations For Jamie Oliver’s Simple Apple Crumble

Jamie Oliver’s Simple Apple Crumble recipe is a classic comfort food, but its simplicity allows for many variations to cater to different tastes and dietary preferences. If you’re looking to add a twist to the traditional version, here are some fun and delicious variations you can experiment with:

1. Berry Infused Apple Crumble

   • Add a handful of fresh or frozen mixed berries (like raspberries, blackberries, or blueberries) to the apple filling. The acidity and sweetness of the berries balance the richness of the apple, creating a delightful contrast in flavor. Simply toss the berries in with the apple mixture before topping with the crumble.

2. Spiced Pear And Apple Crumble

   • Swap some or all of the apples for pears. Pears have a lovely sweetness and delicate texture that pairs wonderfully with apples. Add a pinch of ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and a dash of ginger to enhance the warming flavors of the crumble. This variation is especially comforting in fall and winter.

3. Gluten-Free Apple Crumble

   • For those with dietary restrictions, Jamie Oliver’s apple crumble can be easily adapted to be gluten-free. Replace the regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend or oat flour. Additionally, ensure the oats used in the topping are certified gluten-free. This maintains the crumble’s texture while accommodating gluten sensitivities.

4. Vegan Apple Crumble

   • To make this dish vegan-friendly, simply substitute the butter for a plant-based alternative like coconut oil or a dairy-free margarine. Replace any milk (if used) with almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk. This variation is perfect for those avoiding dairy or eggs without compromising the delicious crumble topping.

5. Caramelized Apple Crumble

   • For a deeper flavor, try caramelizing the apples before baking them. Heat a pan with a bit of butter and sugar, and sauté the apple slices until they soften and develop a rich caramelized color. This extra step enhances the sweetness of the apples, and the result is a more indulgent version of the classic crumble.

6. Nuts And Oats Crumble Topping

   • To elevate the crumble topping, you can add chopped nuts such as almonds, pecans, or walnuts to the oat and butter mixture. The nuts give the topping a delightful crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the soft, sweet apples. This variation is perfect for those who love texture in their desserts.

7. Apple And Rhubarb Crumble

   • For a tangy twist, combine apples with rhubarb. The tartness of rhubarb pairs beautifully with the sweet apples, creating a balance of flavors that is refreshing and unique. You can increase the sugar slightly to offset the sharpness of the rhubarb, or even add a spoonful of honey to enhance the overall flavor.

Each of these variations keeps the simplicity and comfort of Jamie Oliver’s original recipe, but introduces exciting new layers of flavor and texture, ensuring that your apple crumble is never boring!

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

If you’ve made a batch of Jamie Oliver’s Simple Apple Crumble and find yourself with leftovers, don’t worry – it can be stored and enjoyed for a few days. Here are some helpful tips to store your leftovers properly:

1. Cool Before Storing

   • Allow the apple crumble to cool completely at room temperature before storing it. This helps prevent condensation from forming inside the storage container, which could make the crumble soggy.

2. Refrigeration

   • Store the leftover crumble in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for about 3-4 days. The cold temperatures help preserve the texture of the apple filling and keep the crumble topping fresh.

3. Freezing For Long-Term Storage

   • If you want to keep your apple crumble for a longer period, you can freeze it. First, allow it to cool, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe container or a resealable plastic bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat it in the oven for the best texture.

4. Reheating

   • To reheat your leftovers, the oven is your best friend. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F), then bake the crumble for 15-20 minutes, or until it is heated through and the topping has regained its crispness. If you’re reheating individual portions, you can also use the microwave, but be mindful that the topping may lose its crunch.

By following these best practices, you can enjoy your delicious apple crumble over multiple days without sacrificing its taste or texture.

What Goes Well With Simple Apple Crumble?

While apple crumble is a delightful dessert on its own, pairing it with complementary side dishes and toppings can elevate the experience even more. Here are a few ideas on what goes well with Jamie Oliver’s Simple Apple Crumble:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream

   • One of the most popular accompaniments for apple crumble is a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cold and creamy ice cream contrasts wonderfully with the warm, slightly tart apples and the crispy, buttery topping. You can also try other ice cream flavors like cinnamon or caramel for an extra twist.

2. Custard

   • A classic British pairing with apple crumble is custard. You can serve it warm or cold, depending on your preference. Custard adds a rich, creamy texture that balances the sharpness of the apples and complements the crumble’s crumbly texture.

3. Whipped Cream

   • Light, fluffy whipped cream is another great topping to add to your apple crumble. The sweetness and smoothness of the cream contrast nicely with the textures in the crumble, enhancing the dessert without overpowering the flavor.

4. Yogurt Or Greek Yogurt

   • For a lighter and healthier option, you can serve your apple crumble with a dollop of yogurt. Greek yogurt, in particular, offers a creamy and tangy element that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the apples. It’s an excellent choice for those looking to reduce sugar or fat content without sacrificing flavor.

5. Caramel Sauce

   • For those who enjoy indulgence, drizzling a bit of caramel sauce over your apple crumble can take it to the next level. The buttery sweetness of the caramel enhances the apple filling and creates a rich, decadent dessert experience.

6. Fresh Fruit

   • Adding a fresh fruit salad on the side can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the apple crumble. Consider pairing it with berries, citrus fruits, or even slices of banana for a vibrant and healthy complement.

7. Cheese

   • A more unusual but fascinating pairing is apple crumble with a small slice of sharp cheddar cheese. This sweet-and-savory combination works particularly well in the UK, where it’s a beloved tradition to pair apple desserts with cheese.

Conclusion

Jamie Oliver’s Simple Apple Crumble is a wonderfully versatile dessert that can easily be adapted to suit your personal taste. Whether you want to add some berries, go gluten-free, or try a spiced pear version, there are endless possibilities to make this classic dessert your own. And once you have leftovers, storing them properly ensures you can enjoy this comforting dish for days to come.

Pairing the crumble with something like vanilla ice cream, custard, or whipped cream can make it even more indulgent. Whether you’re sharing it with friends and family or savoring a solo treat, this dessert is bound to bring comfort and joy to any occasion.

FAQs

What Makes Jamie Oliver’s Apple Crumble Recipe Simple?

Jamie Oliver’s apple crumble recipe is simple due to its use of basic, accessible ingredients and straightforward cooking steps. He emphasizes using fresh apples, a basic crumble topping, and easy-to-follow instructions, making it ideal for beginners or anyone looking for a quick, comforting dessert.

What Kind Of Apples Should I Use For Jamie Oliver’s Apple Crumble?

Jamie recommends using firm, tart apples like Bramley or Granny Smith. These varieties provide a nice contrast to the sweetness of the crumble topping and hold their shape well when baked, giving a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Apple Crumble In Advance?

Yes, you can prepare Jamie Oliver’s apple crumble in advance. Assemble the crumble up to the point of baking, then cover it and store it in the fridge for a day or two. When ready to bake, simply pop it into the oven, allowing extra time if it’s cold from the fridge.

How Long Does It Take To Bake Jamie Oliver’s Simple Apple Crumble?

Jamie Oliver’s simple apple crumble typically takes around 40-45 minutes to bake. The crumble should be golden brown and the apples tender when done. The exact time may vary depending on your oven, so it’s good to keep an eye on it towards the end.

Can I Substitute The Butter In Jamie Oliver’s Apple Crumble For Something Else?

Yes, you can substitute the butter with plant-based options such as margarine or coconut oil if you’re looking for a dairy-free version. You can also use a combination of olive oil and butter for a lighter option, though the taste and texture may vary slightly.

Is Jamie Oliver’s Apple Crumble Recipe Suitable For Vegetarians?

Yes, Jamie Oliver’s apple crumble recipe is naturally vegetarian. It does not contain meat or animal products other than butter. To make it vegan-friendly, simply swap the butter for a plant-based alternative such as coconut oil or vegan margarine.

Can I Add Spices Or Other Ingredients To Jamie Oliver’s Apple Crumble?

Absolutely!

You can enhance the flavor of Jamie’s apple crumble by adding spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or a bit of ginger. Some people also like to add raisins, sultanas, or even a handful of chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts for extra texture and flavor.

How Do I Make The Crumble Topping Extra Crispy?

To achieve a crispier crumble topping, make sure to use cold butter, as it helps create a more crumbly texture. You can also increase the amount of flour and oats slightly for a firmer, crunchier topping. Bake the crumble at a high temperature, around 190°C (375°F), for a golden, crispy finish.

What Is The Best Way To Serve Jamie Oliver’s Apple Crumble?

Jamie Oliver’s apple crumble is best served warm, ideally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a generous helping of custard. The combination of hot, fruity filling and cool, creamy accompaniments creates a comforting and indulgent dessert.

Can I Freeze Jamie Oliver’s Apple Crumble?

Yes, you can freeze both the assembled crumble and the baked crumble. For freezing before baking, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. To bake, cook from frozen, but be sure to add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.