Sinking into the cozy embrace of autumn, I was reminded of why Tom Kerridge’s Simple Fruit Crumble is my go-to dessert for those crisp evenings. The beauty of this recipe lies in its effortless charm; with just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a comforting, warm treat that will delight your senses. This Simple Fruit Crumble is not only a fantastic way to use up seasonal or frozen fruits, but it also promises a crisp topping that complements the juicy, sweet-tart filling underneath. It’s a dish that can effortlessly impress both family and friends, all while doubling as a make-ahead meal that fits perfectly into a busy week. Who wouldn’t want to add such a comforting delight to their kitchen repertoire? Let’s explore how to create this season’s most inviting dessert, shall we?
Why is Simple Fruit Crumble a Must-Try?
Warmth and Comfort: There’s nothing quite like the cozy, inviting aroma of a fresh fruit crumble baking in the oven.
Less Time, More Flavor: This recipe can be whipped up in under an hour, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights.
Versatile Ingredients: Use seasonal or frozen fruits, letting you customize based on what you have on hand, just like in our make-ahead meals.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: It’s a dessert that brings everyone together, inviting second helpings and happy smiles as you serve alongside a scoop of ice cream or custard.
Easy to Adapt: Whether you’re looking for a gluten-free option or want to add a nutty twist, there’s plenty of room for creativity with this simple fruit crumble.
Simple Fruit Crumble Ingredients
For the Fruit Filling
- Frozen Fruit – 1000 g of mixed frozen fruit brings juicy sweetness; a Black Forest mix works beautifully for depth of flavor.
- Granny Smith Apples – 2 apples add a tart kick to balance the sweetness; feel free to swap with another tart apple if needed.
- Caster Sugar – 4 tbsp enhances the fruit’s natural sweetness; granulated sugar is a perfectly fine substitute.
- Ground Mixed Spice – 1 tsp adds warmth to the filling; if unavailable, a dash of cinnamon and nutmeg can do the trick.
- Vanilla Bean Paste – 2 tsp infuses a rich flavor; using vanilla extract is an easy and convenient alternative.
- Lemon Zest – Zest from 1 small lemon brightens the filling; freshly grated zest truly elevates the dish!
For the Crumble Topping
- Butter – 150 g, cold and diced, is essential for that delightful crumbly texture; keep it chilled until ready to use.
- Plain Flour – 150 g provides necessary structure for the crumble; it’s the backbone of your topping!
- Rolled Oats – 80 g adds chewiness; if you’re in a pinch, quick oats will work but may change texture slightly.
Experimenting is half the fun with this simple fruit crumble—expand your horizons, and let your creativity shine through!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Simple Fruit Crumble
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 200°C (Fan 180°C/Gas 6). As the oven warms up, prepare a deep baking dish, ideally around 27 × 23 cm, ensuring it’s clean and dry. This is where your side of the dish will handle a lovely mix of ripe fruits, so get ready for that delightful aroma to fill your kitchen.
Step 2: Layer the Fruit
Once the oven is heated, evenly spread 1000 g of your chosen frozen fruit at the bottom of the baking dish. Next, take your two chopped Granny Smith apples and scatter them over the top of the fruits. Watch how the bright green apple pieces contrast with the vibrant colors of the frozen mixture, adding a gorgeous visual appeal to your Simple Fruit Crumble.
Step 3: Sprinkle the Mixture
Now, take 4 tablespoons of caster sugar and sprinkle it evenly over your fruit. Follow this by adding 1 teaspoon of mixed spice and the zest of one lemon, ensuring that each bite of your crumble will sing with a balance of sweetness and a touch of tartness. Finally, dollop 2 teaspoons of vanilla bean paste onto the mixture, allowing it to melt into the fruit as it bakes.
Step 4: Prepare the Crumble Topping
In a large bowl or food processor, combine 150 g of cold, diced butter with 150 g of plain flour and 4 tablespoons of caster sugar. Mix until the texture resembles breadcrumbs, ensuring not to overwork it. Gently fold in 80 g of rolled oats, adding a delightful chewiness to the crumble topping that will contrast beautifully with the juicy fruit layer beneath.
Step 5: Cover the Filling
Once your crumble topping is ready, generously crumble it over the fruit and apple mixture, ensuring it covers the filling completely. You want to create a uniform layer that will bake to a golden color, keeping the warm, delicious fruits secret beneath. The excitement builds as you prepare for this comforting treat to take shape.
Step 6: Bake
Place your baking dish in the preheated oven and let it bake for 35 to 40 minutes. As it bakes, keep an eye on it; you’ll know it’s done when the topping turns a beautiful golden brown and the fruit filling starts bubbling around the edges. The inviting scents will surely draw you closer to the oven!
Step 7: Cool and Serve
After baking, carefully remove your Simple Fruit Crumble from the oven and let it cool slightly. This will allow the juices to settle a bit, making it easier to serve. Pair your warm crumble with creamy custard, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a dollop of fresh whipped cream for an extra layer of indulgence and enjoyment.
Simple Fruit Crumble: Endless Customizations
Ready to make this Simple Fruit Crumble your own? Dive into a world of flavors and textures that will elevate your dessert experience!
Fresh Fruit: Swap frozen for seasonal fresh fruits like apples or peaches for enhanced flavor. Fresh fruit brings a vibrant juiciness that simply can’t be matched!
Gluten-Free: Replace plain flour with a gluten-free blend for a suitable option without sacrificing taste. You’ll still achieve that delightful crunch while accommodating dietary needs.
Nutty Crumble: Incorporate 50 g of chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts for extra flavor and crunch. This adds a lovely depth to your crumble, transforming each bite into a delightful surprise.
Spice It Up: Add ginger or cardamom to the filling for an additional warmth. A sprinkle of these spices can evoke memories of cozy evenings spent around the dinner table.
Chocolate Drizzle: A drizzle of melted chocolate can turn your crumble into an indulgent treat. Imagine that rich chocolate mingling with the warm fruit—pure bliss!
Creamy Alternatives: Swap custard for yogurt or whipped cream for a lighter option. A dollop of Greek yogurt with honey can brighten up the dish while keeping it comforting.
Savory Twist: Consider adding a touch of savory herbs like rosemary to the filling for a unique flavor profile. This unexpected twist can create a truly memorable dessert experience.
Fruit Fun Mix: Play around with different fruit combinations! Toss in some tropical fruits like pineapple or mango to create a vibrant, sun-soaked version of your crumble, inspired by our delicious make-ahead meals.
So, unleash your creativity and adapt this Simple Fruit Crumble recipe to match your taste buds!
Make Ahead Options
These Simple Fruit Crumble preparations are perfect for busy home cooks! You can prepare the fruit filling and crumble topping up to 24 hours in advance. Combine 1000 g of frozen fruit with chopped apples in a baking dish, and sprinkle with sugar, mixed spice, and lemon zest. Separately, make the crumble topping by mixing cold diced butter, flour, sugar, and oats until crumbly. Cover both components with plastic wrap and refrigerate to keep everything fresh. When you’re ready to bake, simply layer the crumble topping over the fruit mixture and pop it in the oven for a delightful dessert that’s just as delicious and saves you valuable time on hectic days!
What to Serve with Tom Kerridge’s Simple Fruit Crumble
Indulging in a warm crumble is only the beginning of your cozy dessert experience. Let’s explore delightful pairings that elevate this comforting dish.
Vanilla Ice Cream:
The creamy vanilla ice cream melts beautifully over the warm crumble, balancing the textures perfectly. Each spoonful is an oasis of indulgence.Custard Sauce:
A silky pour of custard is the classic companion that adds warmth. The rich, smooth coating brings the flavors of the crumble to life.Fresh Whipped Cream:
Light and airy, whipped cream adds a luscious brightness to each bite, enhancing the fruit’s sweetness while providing an excellent contrast.Berries Salad:
A mix of fresh berries offers a refreshing and slightly tart kick that complements the sweetness of the crumble. It’s a vibrant addition for your palate.Meringue Topping:
For a whimsical touch, consider dolloping some meringue on top of your crumble. The sweet crunch creates a delightful texture contrast with the warm fruits below.Cardamom Tea:
A spiced cardamom tea provides a fragrant, soothing drink. Sipping this alongside your crumble brings a global warmth to your dessert experience.Almond Biscotti:
Crunchy almond biscotti adds an extra layer of texture. Dipping a piece into the crumble combines delightful elements of crunch and creaminess.Chocolate Drizzle:
For those with a sweet tooth, a drizzle of chocolate adds a touch of decadence. The bittersweet notes create a beautiful balance with the tart fruits.Bourbon or Whiskey:
A splash of bourbon or whiskey elevates the flavor profile, enhancing the warm spices in the crumble. Sip it slowly alongside this spiced dessert.
Expert Tips for Simple Fruit Crumble
Keep Ingredients Cold: Ensure the butter is cold before mixing to achieve a flaky, crunchy topping. This will prevent your crumble from becoming dense.
Choose the Right Fruits: Opt for firm fruits and avoid soft varieties like overripe berries, which can become mushy during baking. Frozen fruit works well too!
Flavor Boost: Don’t hesitate to experiment with spices like ginger or cardamom. Adding these can elevate your simple fruit crumble to new flavor heights.
Mix Just Enough: Combine the crumble ingredients until they resemble breadcrumbs. Overmixing can lead to a tough texture, so be gentle!
Storage Solutions: If you have leftovers, keep the crumble in an airtight container for up to three days. It can also be frozen for future indulgence!
Storage Tips for Simple Fruit Crumble
Room Temperature: Allow the crumble to cool completely before storing it. It can sit out for up to 2 hours, but after that, it should be refrigerated to maintain freshness.
Fridge: Store leftover Simple Fruit Crumble in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps preserve the texture of the topping and the flavors of the fruit filling.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the crumble for up to 3 months. Ensure it’s well-wrapped in plastic wrap and foil to avoid freezer burn.
Reheating: To reheat, place the frozen crumble in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 15-20 minutes or until heated through. This revives the crunchiness of the topping beautifully!
Simple Fruit Crumble Recipe FAQs
What kind of fruit works best for Simple Fruit Crumble?
Absolutely! You can use a delightful mix of frozen fruits like berries or peaches, or seasonal fresh fruits such as apples and pears. I particularly love a blend of tart Granny Smith apples with mixed berries for a lovely balance of flavors. Just make sure to choose fruits that are firm and not overripe, as softer fruits can turn mushy during baking.
How should I store leftover Simple Fruit Crumble?
After allowing it to cool completely, store any leftover Simple Fruit Crumble in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. This helps maintain the texture and prevents it from becoming soggy. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months; be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
Can I freeze the Simple Fruit Crumble?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the cooled crumble tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and bake from frozen for 15-20 minutes until warmed through and crispy on top.
What should I do if my crumble topping becomes too dense?
To avoid a dense topping, it’s essential to start with cold butter and mix until just combined, resembling breadcrumbs. If you find your crumble is too dense, you can add a little extra flour or oats to the mixture, but be gentle! Overworking can lead to a tougher texture, so mixing just enough is key for achieving that perfect crumbly topping.
Can I make Simple Fruit Crumble in advance?
Very! You can prepare the fruit filling and crumble topping up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store them separately in the fridge. When ready to bake, layer the prepared fruit in your baking dish, crumble the topping over it, and pop it in the oven as usual. This makes it a fantastic make-ahead dessert for gatherings or busy evenings!
Simple Fruit Crumble: Warm, Cozy Dessert in Under an Hour
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (Fan 180°C/Gas 6) and prepare a deep baking dish.
- Layer 1000 g of frozen fruit at the bottom of the baking dish and scatter the chopped Granny Smith apples on top.
- Sprinkle 4 tbsp of caster sugar, followed by 1 tsp of mixed spice and the zest of one lemon over the fruit mixture.
- Combine 150 g of cold diced butter, 150 g of plain flour, and 4 tbsp of caster sugar in a bowl until it resembles breadcrumbs, then fold in 80 g of rolled oats.
- Cover the fruit and apple mixture with the crumble topping, ensuring even coverage.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, until the topping is golden brown and the fruit is bubbling.
- Let it cool slightly before serving with custard, ice cream, or whipped cream.
