Rustic Apple Cinnamon Crumb Bake

A comforting dessert featuring tender apples layered with a fragrant cinnamon filling and topped with a buttery, golden crumb. Perfect for cozy gatherings or a sweet finish to any meal.

This rustic apple and cinnamon crumb bake has always been a favorite at family gatherings, bringing warm comfort and sweet satisfaction to every bite.

Ingredients

• Fruit: 5 medium apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and sliced, 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• Filling: 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg, 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• Crumb Topping: 3/4 cup all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup rolled oats, 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar, 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and diced

Instructions

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch square or similar baking dish.

Step 2:

In a large bowl, toss the sliced apples with lemon juice.

Step 3:

In a separate bowl, mix together granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and 2 tablespoons flour. Sprinkle this mixture over the apples and toss to coat evenly.

Step 4:

Transfer the apple mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading evenly.

Step 5:

For the crumb topping, combine flour, oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt in a medium bowl. Add the cold, diced butter. Using your fingers or a pastry cutter, work the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Step 6:

Sprinkle the crumb mixture evenly over the apples.

Step 7:

Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are bubbly and tender.

Step 8:

Let cool for at least 10 minutes before serving. Serve warm, optionally with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

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This recipe always reminds me of cozy family holidays where everyone gathers around the table enjoying warm desserts and laughter fills the room.

Required Tools

9-inch square or similar baking dish, Large mixing bowls, Pastry cutter or fork, Measuring cups and spoons, Peeler and knife

Allergen Information

Contains wheat (gluten) and dairy (butter). Oats may be cross-contaminated with gluten—use certified gluten-free oats if needed. Always check ingredient labels if you have food allergies.

Nutritional Information

Calories: 320, Total Fat: 13 g, Carbohydrates: 52 g, Protein: 3 g per serving

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This rustic apple and cinnamon crumb bake is the perfect comforting dessert to enjoy any time of year.

Cooking Questions & Answers

→ What types of apples work best for this bake?

Firm and tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp hold their shape well and balance sweetness beautifully.

→ How can I add a crunchy texture to the crumb topping?

Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans into the crumb mixture before baking for added crunch.

→ Can I substitute pears for apples in this dish?

Yes, pears can replace all or part of the apples for a subtle flavor variation and a tender texture.

→ What is the key to a golden and crisp crumb topping?

Using cold butter and mixing it into the dry ingredients until coarse crumbs form helps achieve a crisp, golden crust during baking.

→ How should this bake be served for best enjoyment?

Serve warm, optionally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream to enhance its comforting flavors.