There’s something magical about a home filled with the sweet aroma of baked fruit, isn’t there? Tom Kerridge’s Simple Fruit Crumble is the perfect canvas for creating a dessert that feels as comforting as a warm hug. This easy-to-make recipe caters to everyone—from busy weeknight cooks to those hosting family gatherings—thanks to its versatility with both fresh and frozen fruits. Plus, you can easily customize it with gluten-free options or nutty toppings for a delightful twist. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a deliciously golden and crunchy crumble that contrasts beautifully with the soft, juicy fruit beneath. Who’s ready to dive into a serving of pure comfort with this timeless dessert?
Why is this crumble a must-try?
Unmatched Comfort: This Simple Fruit Crumble is the ultimate cozy dessert that transforms your home into a warm haven filled with irresistible aromas.
Versatile Ingredients: Whether you opt for fresh apples or frozen berries, it caters to your preferences and seasonal availability effortlessly.
Quick & Easy: Perfect for busy cooks, this recipe comes together in under an hour, allowing for delightful last-minute preparations for unexpected guests.
Customizable Flavors: Feeling adventurous? Add a hint of cardamom or swap in gluten-free flour options! Want to indulge? Try the chocolate drizzle or nutty toppings for a decadent twist.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Suitable for all ages and occasions, serve it warm with ice cream or custard, and watch everyone savor each spoonful. Dive into this delightful crumble and embrace the comforting nostalgia it brings!
Simple Fruit Crumble Ingredients
For the Fruit Base
• Frozen Fruit – Provides a sweet and juicy base; mixtures like Black Forest or berries work best. Substitute with fresh seasonal fruit such as apples or pears for variety.
• Granny Smith Apples – Adds tartness to balance the sweetness; can be swapped for similar tart varieties if desired.
For the Topping
• Caster Sugar – Enhances the natural sweetness of the fruit; granulated sugar can be used if caster is unavailable.
• Ground Mixed Spice – Infuses warmth and complexity; alternatively, a blend of cinnamon and nutmeg can be used for a cozy flavor.
• Vanilla Bean Paste – Adds a rich vanilla flavor to your simple fruit crumble; vanilla extract can be substituted for convenience.
• Lemon Zest – Brightens flavors and enhances the overall taste profile of the crumble.
• Butter – Cold, diced butter is essential for achieving a rich, crumbly texture; don’t forget to keep it chilled!
• Plain Flour – The foundation of the crumble, giving it necessary structure for that perfect crunch.
• Rolled Oats – Adds chewiness and texture; quick oats are acceptable but will slightly alter the texture.
Optional Enhancements
• Chopped Nuts – Incorporate 50g for additional crunch and depth; walnuts or almonds work beautifully.
• Desiccated Coconut – Mix in 30g with the oats for a tropical flavor twist.
• Maple Syrup – Replace caster sugar with maple syrup for a unique flavor profile.
Dive into this Simple Fruit Crumble and let its nostalgic flavors transport you to a cozy dessert moment!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Tom Kerridge’s Simple Fruit Crumble
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 200°C (Fan 180°C/Gas 6). While it warms, prepare a 27 × 23 cm baking dish by lightly greasing it with butter or oil. This setting is crucial for achieving that golden, bubbling finish on your Simple Fruit Crumble.
Step 2: Layer the Fruit
Place 1 kg of your chosen frozen fruit in the bottom of the greased baking dish, ensuring an even layer. Next, chop 2–3 Granny Smith apples and sprinkle them over the frozen fruit. The apples add a lovely tartness, balancing the sweetness and enhancing the crumble’s flavor profile.
Step 3: Sprinkle the Flavors
Evenly distribute 4 tablespoons of caster sugar, 1 teaspoon of ground mixed spice, and the zest of one lemon over the fruit. Drizzle 2 teaspoons of vanilla bean paste atop this mixture. These additions will infuse your Simple Fruit Crumble with warmth and depth, making the filling irresistibly fragrant.
Step 4: Prepare the Crumble Topping
In a mixing bowl, combine 150g of plain flour, 4 tablespoons of caster sugar, and 100g of cold, diced butter. Using your fingers or a pastry cutter, work the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs. Gently fold in 80g of rolled oats for that perfect crunchy texture in your crumble topping.
Step 5: Cover the Fruit
Now, take the crumble mixture and sprinkle it generously over the prepared fruit layer, ensuring even coverage. This step is essential to create a beautiful golden crust as it bakes. Pat down lightly if necessary, but avoid compacting it too much, as you want it to be airy.
Step 6: Bake the Crumble
Place your assembled Simple Fruit Crumble in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you’ll know it’s ready when the topping turns golden brown and the fruit starts bubbling around the edges, filling your kitchen with delightful aromas.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the crumble from the oven and allow it to cool slightly for about 10 minutes. This waiting period will help the flavors meld beautifully. Serve warm, ideally with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream, pouring custard over it for that extra comforting touch.
Make Ahead Options
These Simple Fruit Crumble preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the fruit base—frozen or fresh—up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Simply layer the fruit in your greased baking dish and sprinkle the sugar and spices on top. The crumble topping can also be made ahead; just mix it up, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply assemble the layers, bake, and enjoy a deliciously warm dessert that’s just as inviting as if it were made fresh that day!
How to Store and Freeze Simple Fruit Crumble
Fridge: Store baked crumble in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days to maintain its delightful texture and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the unbaked crumble in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When ready, bake directly from frozen, adding an additional 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.
Reheating: To restore crispness, reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 15-20 minutes. This keeps the crumble topping perfectly golden and crunchy, just like when it was freshly baked.
Make-Ahead: You can also prepare the crumble unbaked and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Simply cover the dish with plastic wrap to prevent drying out.
What to Serve with Tom Kerridge’s Simple Fruit Crumble
Indulging in a warm slice of sweet fruit crumble feels like wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket, perfect for pairing with delightful accompaniments.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, cold scoop perfectly contrasts the warm crumble, melting into the sweet fruit for a decadent treat.
- Fresh Whipped Cream: Light and airy, this adds a luscious touch, balancing the crumble’s richness and enhancing its sweetness.
- Custard Sauce: A warm drizzle of velvety custard elevates each bite, bringing a delightful creaminess to the fruity filling.
- Fresh Berries: Tart and juicy, fresh berries add a refreshing element, brightening up the flavors for a delightful contrast.
- Mint Tea: This soothing drink offers a refreshing palate cleanser between bites, complementing the crumble’s sweetness beautifully.
- Chocolate Sauce: For a touch of indulgence, drizzle chocolate sauce over the top for a deliciously decadent flavor twist.
- Chopped Nuts: Toasted almonds or walnuts sprinkled on top provide a crunchy texture and nutty flavor to enhance your dessert experience.
- Lemon Sorbet: A refreshing, zesty sorbet cleanses the palate and complements the sweetness of the fruit crumble, creating a balanced dessert experience.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the crumble for a luxurious finish that adds depth and richness to this comforting dish.
Expert Tips for Simple Fruit Crumble
Perfect Butter Temperature: Ensure your butter is cold and diced to achieve the ultimate crumbly topping; room temperature butter may result in a dense crunch.
Don’t Over-Mix: When creating the crumble topping, mix just until crumbly—that lovely texture needs a gentle touch to stay airy.
Adjust Sugar Levels: If you opt for fresh fruit, taste it first; you may need to reduce sugar to balance sweetness perfectly in your simple fruit crumble.
Watch the Bake Time: Keep an eye on your crumble in the oven; baking it just long enough for a golden top ensures a wonderfully crisp result without burning.
Layering is Key: When layering, be sure to evenly distribute the fruit and topping to ensure every bite is balanced between the sweet, juicy filling and crunchy topping.
Variations & Substitutions for Simple Fruit Crumble
Feel free to get creative with your crumble, tailoring it to match your mood or dietary needs and inviting delightful new flavors into your kitchen!
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Fresh Fruit: Swap frozen fruits for seasonal fresh fruits like peaches or pears for a brighter, fruitier twist that celebrates local selection.
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Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of plain flour, allowing everyone to enjoy this dessert without the worry of gluten.
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Nutty Crumble: Incorporate 50g of chopped walnuts or almonds for additional crunch. These nuts not only add texture but also introduce earthy flavors that harmonize perfectly with the sweet fruit.
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Spiced Up: Add a hint of ginger or cardamom for an aromatic twist. Just a sprinkle can elevate your crumble into a warming hug, perfect for chilly evenings.
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Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the baked crumble for a decadent touch. This indulgent addition will satisfy the sweetest of cravings, transforming your simple dessert into a rich delight.
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Coconut Flakes: Mix in 30g of desiccated coconut with the oats for a tropical flavor boost. Not only does it provide a chewy texture, but it also creates a unique fusion of flavors.
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Maple Sweetness: Replace caster sugar with maple syrup for a unique flavor profile that adds a delightful depth. Maple’s natural aroma and taste bring an unexpected delight to each bite.
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Bourbon Vanilla: Substitute with bourbon vanilla extract for a sophisticated twist. This simple change can transform your crumble into a gourmet experience, worthy of any dinner party.
As you explore these variations, you might also want to try this delightful Blueberry Crumble Cheesecake for a layered dessert experience that delights the taste buds! Each variation offers a new journey of flavors, making your Simple Fruit Crumble a beloved staple in your home.
Simple Fruit Crumble Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best fruit for my crumble?
Absolutely! Fresh and seasonal fruits offer the best flavors. When using frozen fruit, select mixed berries or cherries for their sweetness. If you decide on fresh fruit, opt for Granny Smith apples for that tart balance. Look for fruits that are firm and free of dark spots; overly soft or blemished fruit might affect the final taste and texture.
How should I store my Simple Fruit Crumble?
To keep your crumble fresh, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you find yourself with leftovers, simply cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap. For the best texture, be sure to reheat it in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 15-20 minutes to regain that delightful crispiness.
Can I freeze my Simple Fruit Crumble?
Yes, you can! To freeze, prepare the unbaked crumble and place it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, bake it directly from frozen. Just extend the cooking time by an extra 10-15 minutes, keeping an eye on it until the topping is beautifully golden brown and the fruit is bubbly.
What should I do if the topping is too dense?
If you find your crumble topping is dense, it’s likely because the butter was not cold enough or it was over-mixed. For best results, make sure your butter is properly chilled and only mix until crumbly—aim for a light and airy texture. Remember, less is more when it comes to mixing!
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Very much so! This Simple Fruit Crumble can easily be adapted for different dietary needs. Use gluten-free flour instead of plain flour for a delicious gluten-free option. If you’re serving children or have guests with nut allergies, simply skip any nut toppings, or consider using seeds for crunch instead. It’s all about making it work for everyone!
How can I enhance the flavors of my Simple Fruit Crumble?
Feeling adventurous? Add a pinch of cardamom or chopped nuts to the topping for added texture and warmth. You could even mix in some desiccated coconut for a tropical twist! Make it your own; experimenting is half the fun when it comes to this comforting dessert.
Deliciously Cozy Simple Fruit Crumble for Any Season
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (Fan 180°C/Gas 6) and grease a 27 × 23 cm baking dish.
- Layer 1 kg of frozen fruit in the greased baking dish, and chop 2–3 Granny Smith apples and add them on top.
- Sprinkle 4 tablespoons of caster sugar, 1 teaspoon of ground mixed spice, and lemon zest over the fruit. Drizzle with 2 teaspoons of vanilla bean paste.
- In a bowl, combine 150g of plain flour, 4 tablespoons of caster sugar, and 100g of cold, diced butter. Mix until it resembles coarse crumbs and fold in 80g of rolled oats.
- Sprinkle the crumble mixture over the prepared fruit layer.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes until the topping is golden brown and the fruit is bubbling.
- Allow to cool for about 10 minutes before serving warm, ideally with ice cream or custard.
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