Apple Cinnamon Crumble: A Classic Fall Dessert

Fall is the perfect time to enjoy warm, comforting desserts, and nothing says autumn like a freshly baked Apple Cinnamon Crumble. This classic dessert combines tender, spiced apples with a buttery, crunchy topping that’s just irresistible. It’s the ideal treat for those crisp fall days, whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or indulging in a cozy night at home.

This version of Apple Cinnamon Crumble is a lighter take on the traditional recipe, with less sugar but all the flavor. It’s made with wholesome ingredients, and the natural sweetness of the apples shines through with the warm spices of cinnamon and nutmeg. Served warm, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, this dessert is bound to become a fall favorite in your kitchen.

Whether you’re a fan of apples or just love a good crumble topping, this dessert is a must-try for anyone who enjoys the flavors of fall. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—you can easily swap in different fruits, adjust the sweetness, or even add extra texture with nuts or seeds. Ready to bake? Let’s get started!

The beauty of this Apple Cinnamon Crumble lies in its simplicity. It doesn’t require any special techniques or fancy equipment—just a few basic ingredients and about 45 minutes of your time. The warm, comforting aroma of cinnamon and baked apples filling your kitchen will make it worth every minute.

Ingredients for Apple Cinnamon Crumble

• 5 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well), peeled, cored, and sliced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 cup old-fashioned oats
• 1/4 cup almond flour (or whole wheat flour)
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
• 1/4 cup coconut oil or butter, melted
• 1/4 cup brown sugar (or coconut sugar)
• A pinch of salt

About the Ingredients & Preparation Time

The ingredients in this Apple Cinnamon Crumble are simple, yet they pack a lot of flavor and texture. The apples provide a natural sweetness that is perfectly complemented by the spices. Granny Smith apples are a popular choice for their tartness, but Honeycrisp adds a sweet contrast, allowing you to customize based on your preference.

The topping combines oats, almond flour, and brown sugar for a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the tender apples underneath. For those looking to add even more crunch, chopped walnuts bring a delicious, nutty flavor that pairs well with the sweetness of the apples. If you want to keep it nut-free, seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds are great alternatives.

This recipe comes together quickly. You’ll spend about 10-15 minutes preparing the apples and crumble topping, followed by 30-35 minutes of baking time. This makes it an ideal dessert for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings.

Method of Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the sliced apples with lemon juice, maple syrup (or honey), cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. The lemon juice helps prevent the apples from browning and adds a slight tang to balance the sweetness.
3. Transfer the apple mixture to a greased 9×9-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
4. In a separate bowl, combine the oats, almond flour, walnuts (if using), brown sugar, and a pinch of salt. Stir in the melted coconut oil or butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. The coconut oil gives the topping a slight tropical note, while butter adds a rich, traditional flavor—choose whichever suits your taste.
5. Sprinkle the crumble mixture evenly over the apples, ensuring the entire surface is covered.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are tender and bubbling.
7. Remove from the oven and let the crumble cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for the ultimate fall indulgence.

A Twist on the Classic: Apple Pear Crumble

For a fun variation, try adding pears to the mix! Swap out half of the apples for pears to create a delicious Apple Pear Crumble. The combination of sweet apples and juicy pears makes for a unique and flavorful dessert that still captures the essence of fall. Pears, especially varieties like Bosc or Anjou, add a soft, buttery texture that pairs beautifully with apples. This combination also works well with a touch of vanilla extract or a sprinkle of ground cloves for an extra layer of warmth.

If you’re looking for a healthier twist, you can replace the brown sugar in the crumble topping with coconut sugar or reduce the overall amount of sweetener to suit your dietary preferences. The natural sweetness of the apples and pears really shines in this version, making it a guilt-free treat for any time of day.

Serve It with a Fall Drink: Spiced Chai Tea

To complement your Apple Cinnamon Crumble, serve it with a cozy drink like spiced chai tea. The warm spices of chai—such as cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves—pair beautifully with the cinnamon and nutmeg in the crumble, creating a comforting fall treat. Whether you enjoy it as an afternoon snack or after dinner, this pairing will bring all the flavors of autumn to life.

For those who prefer a cool beverage, apple cider (whether warm or chilled) is another classic fall pairing that complements the rich flavors of the crumble. You can even add a splash of bourbon or rum to your cider for a festive twist at a fall gathering.

A Hearty Add-on: Vanilla Whipped Cream or Yogurt

To take this Apple Cinnamon Crumble to the next level, top it with a dollop of homemade vanilla whipped cream or a spoonful of Greek yogurt. The tanginess of the yogurt provides a nice contrast to the sweetness of the crumble, while the whipped cream adds a touch of indulgence. For an extra flavor boost, you can infuse the whipped cream with a hint of cinnamon or vanilla extract.

This topping not only enhances the flavor but also adds a creamy texture that makes the dessert even more satisfying. It’s a simple addition that can elevate your dessert from casual to elegant.

More Recipes to Explore

Love this Apple Cinnamon Crumble? Check out our other fall dessert recipes! Our collection of desserts is perfect for those who love the warmth and comfort of fall flavors, whether you’re baking for a crowd or simply treating yourself.

Follow Us on Pinterest

For more seasonal dessert inspiration, be sure to follow us on Pinterest!. We’re constantly sharing new fall recipes that are perfect for every occasion, so don’t miss out! Pin your favorites and stay inspired with our latest creations.

The Perfect Fall Dessert Awaits!

Apple Cinnamon Crumble is a timeless dessert that brings the best of fall to your table. With its tender, spiced apples and crunchy topping, it’s the perfect combination of flavors and textures to satisfy any sweet tooth. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering or enjoying it as a weekend treat, this dessert will fill your home with the warm, inviting scents of fall.

So, gather your ingredients and get baking—this Apple Cinnamon Crumble is sure to be a hit with anyone who tries it. Don’t forget to serve it warm with your favorite toppings for the ultimate autumn indulgence!