Apple And Rhubarb Crumble
Apple And Rhubarb Crumble Recipe
Apple and rhubarb crumble is a comforting dessert that blends the tartness of rhubarb with the natural sweetness of apples. Topped with a buttery, golden crumble, this dish is a classic favorite for colder months, though it’s delightful at any time of year. Ideal for family gatherings or a cozy night in, this dessert offers a satisfying contrast of textures and flavors.
Ingredients
For the fruit filling:
- 4 medium apples (preferably Granny Smith or Braeburn), peeled, cored, and sliced
- 300g fresh rhubarb, trimmed and chopped into 2cm pieces
- 100g granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp plain flour
- Zest of 1 lemon
For the crumble topping:
- 200g plain flour
- 100g unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- 75g light brown sugar
- 40g rolled oats
- 1/4 tsp salt
Preparing the Fruit Filling
Start by preparing the fruit. Peel, core, and slice the apples into thin wedges. Place them in a large mixing bowl along with the chopped rhubarb. Sprinkle the granulated sugar over the fruit, then add the flour, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and lemon zest. Gently mix until all the ingredients are well combined and the fruit is evenly coated. The flour helps to thicken the juices released during baking, resulting in a luscious filling.
Allow the fruit mixture to sit for 10–15 minutes. This resting time allows the sugar to draw out some of the natural juices from the fruit, which will later blend into a rich, syrupy base. While the fruit rests, you can begin preparing the crumble topping.
Making the Crumble Topping
To create a traditional crumble topping, begin by placing the flour and salt in a large mixing bowl. Add the cubed butter and use your fingertips to rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs. This method helps to keep the butter cold and prevents it from melting too quickly, resulting in a perfectly crumbly texture after baking.
Next, stir in the light brown sugar and rolled oats. The sugar adds sweetness and color, while the oats give the topping a pleasant, rustic texture. Make sure the ingredients are well combined, but avoid overworking the mixture to maintain a crumbly consistency.
Assembling the Crumble
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F, gas mark 4). Choose a baking dish approximately 20cm x 30cm in size. Lightly grease the dish with butter or a neutral oil to prevent sticking. Spoon the fruit filling evenly into the base of the dish, spreading it out with a spatula to ensure an even layer.
Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the fruit. Avoid pressing it down too firmly; keeping it loose allows for a crispier finish. Make sure all the fruit is covered, particularly around the edges, to prevent it from drying out during baking.
Baking the Crumble
Place the assembled crumble in the center of the preheated oven. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the fruit is bubbling around the edges. If the topping begins to brown too quickly, you can loosely cover the dish with foil during the final 10 minutes of baking.
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to rest for at least 10 minutes. This cooling time helps the juices to settle, making it easier to serve. The crumble is best enjoyed warm, though it can also be served at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions
This dessert pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments. A generous scoop of vanilla ice cream contrasts perfectly with the warm crumble, melting into the soft fruit and crispy topping. Alternatively, a dollop of whipped cream or a splash of custard offers a more traditional touch.
For a lighter option, serve the crumble with a spoonful of Greek yogurt or crème fraîche. The tanginess of these dairy products complements the tart rhubarb and enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish.
Storage and Reheating
Leftover crumble can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cover the dish with foil or transfer the leftovers to an airtight container. To reheat, place the desired portion in a preheated oven at 160°C (320°F) for 15–20 minutes, or until warmed through. Alternatively, microwave individual portions on medium power for 1–2 minutes, though the topping may lose some of its crispness.
This crumble can also be frozen for up to 2 months. To freeze, allow the crumble to cool completely, then wrap the dish tightly with cling film and foil. When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as described above.
Tips for the Perfect Crumble
For the best results, choose apples that hold their shape during baking. Varieties such as Braeburn, Granny Smith, or Jonagold offer a good balance of sweetness and structure. Avoid apples that become too soft when cooked, as they can turn mushy in the oven.
When selecting rhubarb, look for stalks that are firm and brightly colored. If the rhubarb is particularly tart, you may wish to increase the sugar slightly. However, take care not to oversweeten, as the tartness is part of what makes this dish so distinctive.
For a more textured crumble, consider adding chopped nuts such as almonds, pecans, or walnuts to the topping. Toasting the nuts beforehand enhances their flavor and adds a satisfying crunch.
Lastly, ensure that the butter is cold when making the crumble topping. Warm butter blends too easily with the flour, resulting in a dense or cakey topping rather than a light, crumbly texture.
Adapting the Recipe
This recipe is versatile and can be adjusted to suit dietary preferences or seasonal availability. For a gluten-free version, substitute the plain flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure that the oats are certified gluten-free. To make the crumble dairy-free, use a plant-based butter alternative and check that all other ingredients are dairy-free.
Fruit combinations are easily customizable as well. Try replacing half the rhubarb with strawberries for a sweeter variation, or add a handful of raspberries or blueberries for a burst of color and flavor. Pears can also be used in place of apples for a slightly softer texture and a more delicate sweetness.
Spices and flavorings can also be tailored to taste. Nutmeg, ginger, or cardamom can be added to the fruit mixture for a warming twist. A splash of orange juice or a few drops of almond extract can enhance the overall aroma and depth of flavor.
Final Thoughts
Apple and rhubarb crumble is a timeless dessert that showcases the natural harmony between tart and sweet flavors. With its simple preparation and comforting appeal, it’s a reliable choice for a wide range of occasions. Whether served with ice cream, custard, or on its own, this crumble offers a satisfying end to any meal. With a few basic ingredients and thoughtful preparation, you can create a dessert that warms the heart as well as the palate.
