Apple crumble with oats

Cooking time 1 h
Apple crumble with oats

Enjoy the warm, comforting taste of our apple crumble with oats, featuring juicy apples under a golden, nutty topping. This dessert offers a delightful crunch from roughly chopped hazelnuts and rolled oats, balanced with the sweet flavours of vanilla and brown sugar. Serve it warm with creamy vanilla skyr for a delicious treat that's perfect for cosy gatherings or a sweet finish to any meal. Easy to make and wonderfully satisfying, this is a dish you'll keep coming back to.

Ingredients

500 g Apples, diced
100 g Butter, diced
40 g Wheat flour
80 g Sugar
70 g Oatmeal
50 g Hazelnuts, coarsely chopped
20 g Brown sugar
1 tsp Vanilla extract
1 pinch Salt

Instructions

  • Spread the diced apples evenly in an ovenproof dish (approx. 20 x 30 cm).
  • Using your fingers, rub the butter and wheat flour together until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  • Add the sugar, oats, chopped nuts, brown sugar, vanilla sugar, and salt to the butter mixture, and continue crumbling until combined into a coarse dough.
  • Sprinkle the crumble mixture evenly over the apples, then bake at 180°C (convection) for about 35 minutes, or until the topping is golden and crisp.
  • Serve warm with a generous spoonful of vanilla skyr.
Enjoy!

Let the dessert rest for at least 10-15 minutes after baking. This cooling period allows the apple juices to thicken, thanks to the natural pectin, and prevents a runny consistency. It also enhances the balance of flavours between the sweet-tart apples and the crunchy oat-hazelnut topping. For the best texture and easier serving, let it sit up to 45 minutes if you aim for cleaner slices. If you prefer it warm, loosely cover it with foil to keep it warm without trapping steam, which could soften the topping.

To achieve the ultimate topping for your apple crumble with oats, texture is key. Start by using old-fashioned rolled oats, which offer more crunch than instant varieties. Lightly toasting the hazelnuts before mixing them in enhances both their flavour and crispness. For extra depth and a golden, crunchy finish, try replacing some of the white sugar with demerara or brown sugar. For a fun twist, drizzle a bit of honey over the topping before baking to create delicious, chewy clusters.

Take your vanilla skyr topping from simple to spectacular with a hint of warm spice. Stir in a pinch of ground cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom to add depth and a cozy aroma that complements this apple crumble with oats beautifully. For a little extra indulgence, try grating in a touch of fresh ginger or adding a drop of maple syrup. These subtle enhancements turn the cool, creamy skyr into a flavourful topping that perfectly balances the sweet, crunchy crumble, making each spoonful even more comforting and satisfying.

Questions about this apple crumble with oats

Wondering how to get your apple crumble with oats just right? Whether you’re unsure about baking time, oat choices, or prepping in advance, these helpful tips will guide you to perfect results every time.

How do I know when my apple crumble with oats is perfectly baked?

To check if your dessert is ready, look for a deep golden brown and crisp topping, indicating that the oats, nuts, sugars, and butter have caramelised well. Also, watch for bubbling juices around the edges of the dish, which show that the apples are cooked, and their juices are thickening. To test the apples' tenderness, gently insert a knife or fork into the centre; it should slide in easily. If the apples are still firm, cover the dish with foil loosely to prevent the top from browning too much and continue baking in short increments. You should also notice a fragrant aroma of toasted oats, nuts, and baked apples in your kitchen.

What kind of oats should I use, rolled or quick?

For this apple crumble with oats recipe, you should use rolled oats. Rolled oats provide a chewy and crisp texture, which results in a crunchy and well-defined topping. This texture contrasts nicely with the tender baked apples, offering the classic apple crumble experience. While quick oats can be used if you prefer a softer topping or only have them available, they will create a less crunchy result.

Can I make this apple crumble with oats ahead of time?

Yes, this recipe is great for making ahead. You have a few options: fully bake it and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days, or prepare the parts separately. You can make the crumble topping and keep it in the fridge for up to two days or freeze it for up to a month. The apple filling can be prepared a day before and refrigerated. Alternatively, assemble the dessert and freeze it unbaked for up to one month. When you're ready, bake it directly from the freezer, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Nutritional values

Nutritional value, per

2050 Kcal

Fibre 26.1 gram fibers
Protein 17.1 gram
Fat 119.9 gram
Carbohydrates 226.5 gram

Recommended information

Serving suggestion

Try these tasty twists on the classic apple crumble with oats

Love the classic apple crumble? Give it a new spin with a few simple swaps! Replace the apples with pears, tart rhubarb, or a mix of fresh or frozen berries for a refreshing change in flavour and texture. These alternatives pair just as beautifully with the nutty oat topping and creamy vanilla skyr.

Looking for more inspiration? Try one of these delicious variations:

  • Plum crumble: juicy plums bring a rich, slightly tart twist that’s perfect with a buttery topping.
  • Blackberry crumble: bursting with bold berry flavour and served with skyr for a fresh finish.
  • Apple and blackberry crumble: a cosy, comforting dessert that blends sweet apples and tangy blackberries under a golden, crisp topping.

Out of hazelnuts? Here are some tasty alternatives

No hazelnuts? No problem! There are plenty of delicious nut and seed alternatives that work beautifully in this apple crumble with oats. Try chopped almonds for a mild crunch, pecans for a buttery richness, or walnuts for a slightly earthy bite.

Want a nut-free option? Toasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds add great texture. You can even mix and match to suit your taste. Just be sure to chop them coarsely for that perfect crunchy topping every time.

Homemade vanilla sugar in just a few simple steps

Making your own vanilla sugar is easy and adds a rich, aromatic touch to your baking. Simply place 1-2 whole vanilla pods in a jar with about 200-250 g of white sugar. Split the pods lengthwise first to release more flavour, then submerge them fully in the sugar. Seal the jar tightly and let it sit for at least a week, giving it a gentle shake every couple of days. The longer it rests, the deeper the vanilla aroma. Use it in crumbles, cakes, or even your morning coffee for a naturally sweet, fragrant boost.

Expert tips for evenly sliced apples every time

Evenly sliced apples ensure your apple crumble with oats bakes consistently and delivers the perfect texture in every bite. Start by using a sharp knife or mandolin for precision and control. Aim for slices or cubes that are about 1-1.5 cm thick, too thin and they’ll turn mushy, too thick and they may stay firm.

Peel the apples first if you prefer a softer filling, and core them completely to avoid any tough bits. For extra efficiency, use an apple slicer to quickly divide apples before dicing. Consistent cuts not only help with even baking but also give your dish a polished, professional look.

Can I swap brown sugar for regular sugar in this apple crumble with oats?

Yes, you can swap brown sugar for regular white sugar in your dessert, but it will slightly change the flavour and texture. Brown sugar adds a rich, caramel-like depth and a touch of moisture, which helps create a softer, more flavourful topping.

If you use white sugar instead, the crumble will still be sweet and crisp but with a lighter taste and crunchier texture. For a balanced option, our recipe uses half brown and half white sugar to enjoy the best of both worlds!

https://www.arlafoods.co.uk/recipes/apple-crumble-with-oats/