There's something wonderfully comforting about a warm, fruity crumble topped with a crisp, buttery topping. This easy apple crumble recipe serves six and is perfect for those moments when you want a satisfying, fuss-free treat.

With simple ingredients and minimal preparation, this recipe combines the sweet, tender apples and a golden, crumbly topping that pairs perfectly with a thick cream or custard dollop. It’s ideal for a family-friendly dessert, now that the sunny days and outdoor barbecue parties are coming back. Sharing this recipe online, the BBC recommended using plenty of butter as it is “the key to a good crumble topping.”

Easy apple crumble recipe

Ingredients

For the crumble

300g plain flour

Pinch of salt

175g brown sugar

200g unsalted butter at room temperature, cubed, plus a little for greasing

For the filling

450g apples, peeled, cored and cut into 1cm pieces

50g brown sugar

One tbsp plain flour

One pinch ground cinnamon

Method

Start by preheating your oven to 180C (or 160C for fan ovens) or Gas Mark four.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar, stirring them together thoroughly. Gradually add small chunks of butter into the dry ingredients, working them in with your fingers. Continue this process until the mixture takes on a texture resembling breadcrumbs, with all the butter evenly distributed.

Next, prepare the fruit by placing it in a separate large bowl. Sprinkle the fruit with the sugar, flour, and cinnamon, mixing gently to coat the pieces evenly, taking care not to crush or break up the fruit.

Grease a 24cm (9-inch) ovenproof dish with butter. Pour the prepared fruit mixture into the dish, then evenly distribute the crumble topping over the fruit layer.

Place the dish in the oven and bake for around 40 to 45 minutes, or until the crumble is golden brown and the fruit mixture is bubbling around the edges.

Serve the dessert with a generous helping of thick cream or custard for an indulgent treat.