This apple cranberry crumble is an incredibly delicious dessert that combines tart apples and cranberries with a sweet, crumbly topping. It’s the perfect treat for the fall and winter months, and it’s so easy to make!
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With many recipes, the crumble can brown too quickly while the filling is still cooking, especially if baked at too high a temperature. This recipe directs you to cover it with foil during the first half of baking like this recipe does, to avoid this.
If you love this apple cranberry crumble, then you should try my Dutch apple pie, apple strudel, and apple pudding. They all have that same delicious apple flavor in different dessert forms.
This recipe was found in a Southern cookbook I purchased in the Mississippi when we were there on vacation. We stayed in the home the recipe is from. I love these unique recipes!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Flavor Combo: The tartness of the apples and cranberries creates a perfect sweet-and-sour flavor profile that’s simply irresistible.
- Unbelievably Easy: This recipe is super easy to make. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious dessert ready to go in no time.
- Incredible Texture: The combination of the soft, baked apples and the juicy cranberries, topped with a crunchy oat and pecan crumble, results in a dessert with the perfect texture balance.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or just a cozy night in, this apple cranberry crumble is the perfect dessert to share with family and friends.
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Key Ingredients
- Apples: These will add a sweet and slightly tart flavor, as well as a soft texture to the crumble.
- Fresh Cranberries: They will bring a pop of color and a tangy flavor that complements the sweetness of the apples.
- Sugar: This will sweeten the fruits and help to bring out their natural flavors.
- Old Fashioned Oats: They will add a deliciously chewy texture to the crumble topping.
- Brown Sugar: It will add a rich, caramel-like flavor and help the topping to caramelize as it bakes.
- Butter: This will give the crumble topping a buttery and rich flavor, as well as a crispy texture.
- Flour: It will help to thicken the crumble topping and give it a more cake-like consistency.
- Pecans: They will add a delicious nutty flavor and a crunchy texture to the crumble.
Equipment
- 2 Quart Baking Dish or Square Baking Dish – You’ll need this to bake your apple cranberry crumble. It’s important to grease it beforehand to prevent the crumble from sticking.
- Medium Bowl – This is where you’ll mix your oats, brown sugar, butter, and flour to make the delicious crumble topping for your fruit.
How to Make Apple Cranberry Crumble
Preparation
Start by greasing your 2 quart or square baking pan. This will prevent the crumble from sticking to the pan. Preheat your oven to 375˚ F to get it nice and hot for baking.
Step 1 – Prepare the Fruit
Take your greased baking pan and add the apples, cranberries, and white sugar. Give it a good mix to make sure the fruit is evenly coated with the sugar. This will help sweeten the fruit and also draw out some of the juices as it bakes.
Step 2 – Make the Crumble
In a separate medium bowl, combine the oats, brown sugar, melted butter, and all-purpose flour. This will form a crumbly mixture that will be the top layer of your crumble. Once it’s mixed, spread it evenly over your prepared fruit. Then, top the crumble with the chopped pecans for an extra crunch.
Step 3 – Bake the Crumble
Cover your baking pan with foil and place it in the preheated oven. Let it bake for 45 minutes to start, which will allow the fruit to soften and the crumble to start to crisp up. After 45 minutes, uncover the crumble and let it bake for an additional 15 minutes. This will help the top layer of the crumble to become golden and crunchy.
Step 4 – Serve the Crumble
Once your crumble is done baking, remove it from the oven, let it cool for a few minutes, and then serve.
Expert Tip
Let the crumble cool to let the syrup thicken before serving. This will give the filling a chance to set and the flavors to intensify, resulting in a more delicious dessert.
Recipe Variations
- Different Fruit: Feel free to swap out the apples and cranberries for other fruits like pears, cherries, or even mixed berries. Just make sure to adjust the sugar level according to the sweetness of the fruit.
- Nuts: I used pecans in the crumble topping, but you can easily substitute with walnuts, almonds, or even hazelnuts for a different flavor.
- Spices: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon to the fruit filling for a warm, cozy flavor. You can also add a pinch of nutmeg.
What to Serve With
- For a classic dessert pairing, serve your apple cranberry crumble with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creamy, cool ice cream is the perfect contrast to the warm, sweet crumble.
- If you’re a fan of a lighter topping, try serving it with a dollop of whipped cream. The airy texture of the whipped cream compliments the rich, buttery crumble.
- If you’re hosting a brunch, this crumble can also be served with a side of Greek yogurt. The tanginess of the yogurt balances the sweetness of the crumble, making for a delicious and satisfying breakfast treat.
Make Ahead Instructions
This is the perfect dessert to make ahead! Simply follow the recipe directions to make it ahead of time and allow it to cool. Cover and store in the fridge for up to 2 days and warm it before serving.
Recipe FAQs
I recommend using a tart apple to balance the sweet crumble topping. My favorite types to use are Granny Smith or Jonagold.
It’s up to you! I like to leave the peels on because they add a nice texture to the filling, but if you prefer your apple filling to be softer, you can definitely peel the apples before chopping.
No, the pecans are optional. If you have a nut allergy or simply prefer a different type of nut, feel free to substitute it with almonds, walnuts, or even sunflower seeds. The crumble will still be delicious.
Storing and Reheating
- Storing: You can store any leftovers of this apple cranberry crumble in the refrigerator. Just make sure it’s covered to keep it fresh. It will stay good for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: I do not recommend freezing this crumble since the texture of the topping and fruit can become mushy after thawing, altering the overall quality of the dessert.
- Reheating: Reheat your apple cranberry crumble in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 30 seconds.
More Crumble and Crisp Recipes You’ll Enjoy
Serving Size
- What to Expect: This apple cranberry crumble recipe yields a delicious dessert for about 8 people.
- How to Scale: If you’re planning to serve more than 8, you can easily double the recipe and follow the instructions as directed. Just make sure to use a larger baking dish to accommodate the increased quantity.
Apple Cranberry Crumble
Ingredients
Filling
- 3 Cups apples chopped
- 2 Cup fresh cranberries
- 1 Cup sugar
Crumble Topping
- 1 ½ Cup old fashioned oats
- ½ Cup brown sugar firmly packed
- 1/2 Cup salted butter melted
- ⅓ Cup flour
- 1 Cup pecans chopped
Instructions
- Grease a 2 quart or square baking pan. Preheat oven to 375˚ F.
- Place apples, cranberries, and sugar in the greased baking pan and give it a toss to evenly coat the apples and cranberries with the sugar.
- In a medium bowl, mix the oats, brown sugar, butter, and flour. Spread over the fruit. Top with the chopped pecans.
- Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Uncover and bake for additional 15 minutes.
Big fan of the flavors in this recipe! The tartness of the cranberries with the apples and the crunch of the nuts – perfection.