Apple Crumble

My version of this classic dish is not exactly traditional. I prefer a near 50/50 ratio of crumble to fruit, and I like it with just a hint of sweetness. It’s actually more like a crunchy cinnamon spiced granola with a warm soft apple contrast. Served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream this is definitely a comfort food dessert.

Ingredients

Filling

• 1 TBSP butter, softened
• 4 medium-size crisp eating apples
• 1 TBSP lemon juice
• 2 to 4 TBSP granulated sugar
• 1 TBSP all-purpose flour
• 1 to 2 tsp ground cinnamon

Topping

• 1 & 1/2 cup old fashioned rolled oats
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 4 TBSP butter, softened

Instructions

Filling

1. Preheat the oven to 350f. Use 1 TBSP of soft butter to liberally grease a 2-quart casserole dish sides & bottom. Don’t skimp on this to save calories! It’s an integral part of the recipe.
2. Rince apples well to remove any wax, or just peel them. Cut apples into 3/4 inch pieces, place in large bowl and drizzle with the lemon juice.
3. Add the sugar, flour, and cinnamon. Toss gently until all the apple pieces are well coated.
4. Add them to the greased casserole dish and create an even layer. Take care not to pack them down.

Topping

5. In the same now empty bowl, add the oats, flour, sugar, and cinnamon. Stir to combine.
6. Add the soft butter and work into the mixture (hands are best for this job) until evenly distributed.
7. Sprinkle by handfuls evenly over the apples. Spread evenly, but do not pack it down.
8. Bake in the middle of the preheated oven for 60 minutes, or until well browned.
9. Cool for 10 minutes before serving.

Best served warm with vanilla ice cream. Will keep loosely covered at room temperature for a day or two, reheat gently in the microwave.

Makes 4 to 6 Servings