There’s something irresistible about a warm apple crumble that brings comfort with every bite. Our Mini Apple Crumble Recipe captures that cozy feeling in perfectly sized portions, making it ideal for sharing or enjoying solo. These little delights combine tender, cinnamon-spiced apples with a buttery, crunchy topping that’s simply addictive.
This recipe is straightforward and quick, perfect for when you want a homemade dessert without fuss. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or craving a sweet treat after dinner, these mini crumbles deliver all the classic flavors with a charming twist. Let’s dive into making this timeless dessert that’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients
To create the perfect Mini Apple Crumble, we need to gather fresh ingredients that balance sweetness and spice for the filling and achieve a crisp, buttery topping. Below are the essentials, divided for ease.
For the Apple Filling
- 4 medium-sized tart apples (such as Granny Smith), peeled, cored, and diced into 1/2-inch pieces
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (light or dark for deeper flavor)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (to enhance freshness and prevent browning)
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (for thickening)
For the Crumble Topping
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup rolled oats (adds texture and crunch)
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter (cut into small cubes)
| Ingredient Category | Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apple Filling | Tart apples | 4 medium | Base fruit |
| Granulated sugar | 2 tbsp | Sweetness | |
| Brown sugar | 1 tbsp | Rich sweetness, moisture | |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 tsp | Warm spice | |
| Ground nutmeg | 1/4 tsp | Depth of flavor | |
| Lemon juice | 1 tbsp | Prevent browning, freshness | |
| Cornstarch | 1 tsp | Thickening | |
| Crumble Topping | All-purpose flour | 1 cup | Structure |
| Rolled oats | 1/2 cup | Crunch, texture | |
| Brown sugar | 1/2 cup | Sweetness, caramel notes | |
| Ground cinnamon | 1/2 tsp | Flavor enhancement | |
| Salt | 1/4 tsp | Balances sweetness | |
| Cold unsalted butter | 1/2 cup (cubed) | Butter richness, crispness |
Tools and Equipment Needed
To make our Mini Apple Crumble perfectly every time, having the right tools and equipment is essential. These items help us prepare the tender apple filling and the crisp, buttery crumble topping with ease and precision.
Essential Tools for Mini Apple Crumble
- Mixing Bowls
We need at least two bowls — one for mixing the apple filling and another for preparing the crumble topping.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Accurate measurements ensure the balance of spices, sugar, and flour, making the flavor vibrant and consistent.
- Peeler and Knife
A sharp knife and a vegetable peeler are crucial for peeling, coring, and slicing the apples uniformly.
- Cutting Board
Provides a stable surface for safely cutting the apples.
- Mini Ramekins or Muffin Tin
These allow us to bake individual portions. Each ramekin or muffin cup should hold about 4 to 6 ounces.
- Pastry Cutter or Fork
Used to combine cold butter into the flour mixture for the crumble topping, creating that perfect flaky texture.
- Spatula or Spoon
For folding the apples and topping gently to maintain texture and coat ingredients evenly.
- Oven
Preheated to 350°F (175°C), the oven bakes the crumble until golden brown and bubbling.
- Cooling Rack
Essential for letting the mini crumbles cool slightly before serving, preserving their texture and enhancing flavors.
Summary Table of Tools and Equipment
| Tool/Equipment | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mixing Bowls | Combine filling and topping | Use separate bowls for clarity |
| Measuring Cups/Spoons | Precise ingredient measurements | Accuracy is key for flavor balance |
| Peeler & Knife | Peel, core, and slice apples | Sharp tools ensure uniform slices |
| Cutting Board | Safe surface for cutting | Non-slip board preferred |
| Mini Ramekins/Muffin Tin | Bake individual apple crumbles | Use 4 to 6 oz size for perfect portions |
| Pastry Cutter/Fork | Cut butter into dry ingredients | Makes crumble topping flaky |
| Spatula/Spoon | Mix and fold ingredients | Gentle folding preserves texture |
| Oven | Bake the crumble | Set to 350°F (175°C) |
| Cooling Rack | Cool baked mini crumbles | Prevents sogginess |
“Using the right tools makes all the difference in achieving the perfect texture and flavor in our Mini Apple Crumble.“
Having these tools handy before beginning ensures our baking session is smooth and enjoyable. Next, we’ll dive into preparing the ingredients step-by-step to make this classic dessert irresistible.
Prep Work
Before diving into the baking process, proper prep work is crucial for our Mini Apple Crumble to turn out perfectly. Let’s break down the essential steps to get everything ready efficiently.
Preparing the Apples
We start by selecting 4 medium tart apples that provide the right balance of tartness and sweetness. Here’s how we prepare them:
- Peel each apple carefully using a vegetable peeler to remove the skin.
- Core the apples to remove seeds and tough centers.
- Slice the apples into uniform 1/4-inch thick wedges to ensure even cooking.
- In a mixing bowl, toss the sliced apples with:
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (to prevent browning and add brightness)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (to thicken the filling as it cooks)
This mixture ensures our filling is spiced, sweet, and thickened for that irresistible texture.
Preheating the Oven
While preparing the apples and crumble topping, we should also preheat the oven to create the perfect baking environment:
| Step | Setting | Temperature |
|---|---|---|
| Oven Type | Conventional | 350°F (175°C) |
| Rack Position | Center | |
| Preheat Duration | At least 15 minutes before baking |
Preheating ensures even cooking and a crisp topping every time.
Preparing the Baking Dishes
For perfect mini portions and even baking:
- Use mini ramekins or a standard muffin tin as individual baking vessels.
- Lightly grease each dish with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
- Divide the prepared apple filling evenly among the dishes, filling about 3/4 full.
- This ensures enough space for the crumble topping and prevents overflow during baking.
With the apples prepped, oven hot, and baking dishes ready, we set the foundation for our delicious Mini Apple Crumble.
Making the Apple Filling
To create the heart of our Mini Apple Crumble, the apple filling must blend crispness, sweetness, and spice perfectly. Follow these precise steps to build that rich, aromatic base.
- Prepare the Apples
Begin by peeling, coring, and slicing 4 medium tart apples into uniform wedges about ¼-inch thick. Uniform slices ensure even cooking and a balanced texture in every bite.
- Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, add:
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ⅓ cup brown sugar (for deeper caramel notes)
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg
- 2 tbsp cornstarch (for thickening)
Whisk these dry ingredients thoroughly to evenly distribute the spices and starch.
- Add Lemon Juice
Squeeze 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice over the sliced apples. This adds brightness and prevents oxidation, helping maintain the apples’ appealing color.
- Toss the Apples
Gently toss the apple slices with the sugar-spice mixture and lemon juice until every piece is lightly coated. This step infuses the apples with flavor, creating a juicy, spiced filling once baked.
- Rest for Flavor Absorption
Let the mixture sit for 5 to 10 minutes. This resting period allows the apples to start releasing their natural juices, which blend with the sugars and spices to form a luscious sauce during baking.
Key Measurement Summary
| Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Tart Apples | 4 medium | Base of filling |
| Granulated Sugar | ¼ cup | Sweetness |
| Brown Sugar | ⅓ cup | Caramel flavor |
| Ground Cinnamon | 1 tsp | Warm spice |
| Ground Nutmeg | ½ tsp | Earthy spice |
| Lemon Juice | 1 tbsp | Acidity, color preservation |
| Cornstarch | 2 tbsp | Thickening agent |
“Properly mixing and resting the filling ensures we achieve the signature tender yet saucy texture in our Mini Apple Crumble. It’s this flavorful filling that marries beautifully with the crunchy topping we’ll prepare next.”
Now that our spiced apple filling is ready and resting, we can move forward with assembling our individual mini crumbles.
Preparing the Crumble Topping
To create the perfect Mini Apple Crumble topping, we start by combining the dry ingredients to achieve a balance of texture and flavor. Here’s how we do it step-by-step:
- Measure and Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, mix together:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup rolled oats
- ⅓ cup packed brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- A pinch of salt
These ingredients build the base. The oats add crunch while the cinnamon infuses warm spice to complement the apples.
- Cut in the Cold Butter
Take 6 tablespoons of cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes. Using a pastry cutter or fork, cut the butter into the dry mixture. Work quickly and lightly, combining until the mix forms coarse crumbs with pea-sized pieces of butter visible.
“The key is to keep the butter cold so the topping bakes into a flaky, buttery crumble rather than a dense dough.”
- Test the Texture
When ready, the topping should resemble coarse sand or small crumbly clumps. This texture ensures it crisps up nicely in the oven with a golden-brown finish.
| Ingredient | Measurement | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 1 cup | Structure |
| Rolled oats | ½ cup | Texture and crunch |
| Brown sugar | ⅓ cup | Sweetness and moisture |
| Ground cinnamon | ½ teaspoon | Warm spice |
| Salt | Pinch | Flavor enhancer |
| Unsalted butter | 6 tablespoons, cold | Flakiness and richness |
- Chill the Crumble Topping (Optional)
For an extra crisp texture, place the prepared topping in the refrigerator for 10 minutes before baking. This helps keep the butter firm so it melts slowly, creating a light crunch.
By following these steps, we ensure the crumble topping shines with a buttery, golden crust that perfectly contrasts the tender spiced apples beneath. Next, we’ll sprinkle this mix evenly over our apple filling in the ramekins before baking.
Assembling the Mini Apple Crumbles
To assemble the Mini Apple Crumbles, we start by evenly distributing the cinnamon-spiced apple filling into the prepared mini ramekins or muffin tin. This ensures each portion has the perfect balance of fruit and sauce.
- Fill Each Ramekin
Spoon the prepared apple mixture into each dish, filling about ¾ full. This leaves room for the crumble topping to create a golden, crunchy crust without spilling over.
- Add the Crumble Topping
Next, generously sprinkle the buttery crumble topping over the apple filling. Use your fingers or a spoon to gently press the topping to cover the apples completely. Aim for an even layer around ¼ to ⅓ inch thick to achieve that ideal crunchy-to-juicy texture contrast.
- Final Preparation Check
Before baking, double-check each mini crumble is evenly topped and clean any excess topping from the edges to prevent burning or over-browning around the sides.
- Arrange for Baking
Place the ramekins or muffin tin on a baking sheet. This helps catch any drips and makes transferring easier.
Pro Tip:
For an extra touch, sprinkle a light dusting of granulated sugar on top of the crumble before baking. This enhances caramelization and adds a slight sparkle to the crust.
| Step | Detail | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Fill ramekins ¾ full | Spoon apple filling evenly | Balances filling and topping |
| Add topping ¼ to ⅓ inch | Spread crumble layer evenly | Ensures crisp and golden crust |
| Clean edges | Remove excess topping from edges | Prevents burning |
| Place on baking sheet | Arrange ramekins for baking | Catches drips and eases handling |
By carefully assembling each mini apple crumble with attention to layering and portion, we set the stage for a perfectly baked dessert that showcases tender spiced apples beneath a buttery crunchy topping.
Baking Instructions
Baking our Mini Apple Crumble correctly ensures a perfect balance between tender spiced apples and a crisp buttery topping. Follow these precise steps for an irresistible dessert every time.
Baking Time and Temperature
We bake the mini crumbles at a consistent 350°F (175°C) to evenly cook the apples and brown the crumble topping without burning.
| Step | Temperature | Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Preheat oven | 350°F (175°C) | 15 minutes | Ensures consistent heat throughout |
| Baking mini apple crumbles | 350°F (175°C) | 25–30 minutes | Topping golden and apples bubbly |
- Place the ramekins or muffin tin on a baking sheet for stability.
- Bake for 25 minutes, then begin checking for doneness.
- The topping should be golden brown and slightly crisp.
Checking for Doneness
Knowing when your Mini Apple Crumble is done is crucial. Here’s how we verify perfect results:
- The crumble topping should be golden brown with a slightly crunchy texture to the touch.
- The apple filling will be bubbling around the edges, indicating juices are fully released and cooked.
- Insert a thin knife or skewer into the apple filling. It should slide in easily with no resistance, confirming apples are tender.
- If topping browns too quickly but apples are not tender, tent loosely with foil and continue baking.
Pro Tip: Let the mini crumbles cool at least 10 minutes before serving. This helps the filling thicken and topping set for the best flavor and texture contrast.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate our Mini Apple Crumble experience, let’s explore a variety of delicious serving ideas that complement the warm, cinnamon-spiced apples and buttery crumble topping perfectly.
Classic Pairings
- Serve each mini crumble warm topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cold cream melting into the crispy crumble creates a delightful contrast of temperatures and textures.
- Add a dollop of freshly whipped cream flavored with a hint of vanilla or cinnamon to enhance the cozy flavors.
- Pour a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra sweetness and richness, especially popular during fall and winter.
Beverage Pairings
| Beverage | Description | Why it Works |
|---|---|---|
| Hot Apple Cider | Spiced and warm, echoing the crumble’s flavors | Accentuates the autumn spices |
| Black Coffee | Bold and slightly bitter | Balances the sweetness |
| Spiced Chai Tea | Aromatic with cinnamon and ginger | Compliments the apple and spice |
Presentation Tips
- Use mini ramekins or small bowls served on rustic wooden boards or colorful plates to offer an inviting look.
- Garnish with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a sprinkle of chopped toasted nuts for visual appeal and texture.
- Add a small cinnamon stick on the side as an aromatic garnish that reinforces the crumble’s flavor profile.
Alternative Serving Ideas
- Turn mini crumbles into handheld treats by serving them alongside crisp apple slices for a fresh contrast.
- Pair with a scoop of Greek yogurt for a tangy balance and added protein, ideal for breakfast or brunch.
- Top with chopped toasted pecans or walnuts mixed into the crumble before baking for added crunch and nutty flavor.
Serving Temperature
| Temperature | Serving Benefit |
|---|---|
| Warm (approx. 110°F) | Enhances the aroma, brings out the sweetness and spices |
| Room temperature | Allows flavors to meld, good for make-ahead serving |
| Cold | Offers a firmer topping texture, nice for summer |
“Warm Mini Apple Crumble topped with vanilla ice cream is timeless comfort — a must-try pairing to truly enjoy this classic dessert.”
These Serving Suggestions ensure that our Mini Apple Crumble is enjoyed with complementary flavors and textures making every bite memorable.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
To keep our Mini Apple Crumble fresh and delicious, following these Storage and Make-Ahead Tips is essential.
Storing Mini Apple Crumble
- Cool Completely
Allow the mini apple crumbles to cool at room temperature for at least 10 minutes after baking. This prevents condensation and sogginess during storage.
- Refrigeration
Place the crumbles in an airtight container. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When ready to enjoy, reheat individual portions in the microwave for 30-45 seconds or warm in a preheated 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes to restore that freshly baked texture.
- Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the mini crumbles either baked or unbaked:
- Baked: Wrap each crumble tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Unbaked: Assemble the crumbles in their ramekins, cover tightly, and freeze. Bake from frozen, adding about 10 extra minutes to the baking time.
Make-Ahead Preparation
- Prepare Filling and Topping Separately: We can prep the apple filling and crumble topping a day ahead. Store each in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. This reduces assembly time on baking day.
- Assemble Before Baking: Once the filling and topping are ready, assemble the crumbles in ramekins, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake as usual when ready.
Reheating and Serving Tips
- Reheat properly to bring out the best texture contrast between the tender spiced apples and the crisp crumble topping.
- Serve warm with complementary sides suggested earlier, such as vanilla ice cream or whipped cream, for an elevated experience.
| Storage Method | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | Up to 4 days | Store in airtight container |
| Freezing (baked) | Up to 3 months | Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil |
| Freezing (unbaked) | Up to 3 months | Bake from frozen, add 10 mins to time |
“Pro Tip: When reheating frozen crumbles, cover loosely with foil for the first 10 minutes to keep moisture in, then uncover to crisp the topping.”
By incorporating these storage and make-ahead tips, we ensure that our Mini Apple Crumble stays just as mouthwatering and inviting whenever we crave this classic dessert.
Conclusion
Mini Apple Crumble is a timeless dessert that brings warmth and comfort to any table. Its perfect balance of tender, spiced apples and a crisp, buttery topping makes it irresistible every time.
With simple ingredients and easy steps, this recipe fits seamlessly into busy schedules while still delivering impressive flavor. Whether for a cozy night in or a special occasion, these individual crumbles are sure to impress.
We’re confident this recipe will become a go-to favorite, offering a delicious way to enjoy the classic apple crumble with a charming personal touch.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients are needed for the mini apple crumble filling?
The filling requires tart apples, granulated and brown sugars, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and cornstarch to thicken.
What makes the crumble topping crunchy?
Cold unsalted butter combined with flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt creates a flaky, crunchy topping.
How should I prepare the apples before baking?
Peel, core, and slice apples into uniform wedges, then toss with sugars, spices, lemon juice, and cornstarch.
What baking tools do I need for mini apple crumbles?
You’ll need mixing bowls, measuring cups and spoons, a peeler, knife, cutting board, ramekins or muffin tins, and a pastry cutter or fork.
At what temperature and for how long should I bake the mini crumbles?
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes until the topping is golden and the filling bubbles.
Can I make the mini apple crumbles ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the filling and topping a day ahead, then assemble just before baking.
How should I store leftover mini apple crumbles?
Cool completely, store in an airtight container in the fridge up to 4 days, or freeze for longer storage.
What is the best way to reheat mini apple crumbles?
Reheat in the oven to preserve the crisp topping and warm the filling evenly.
What are good serving suggestions for mini apple crumble?
Serve warm with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, caramel sauce, or pair with hot apple cider or spiced chai tea.
Why is it important to keep butter cold when making the topping?
Cold butter creates a flaky, crunchy texture by preventing the fat from fully blending with dry ingredients.