The first of October and there is a noticeable chill in the air. I love the change in season – the crisp air, the colorful trees, and of course the beginning of apple season. Our apple tree is brimming with fruit and I am so excited to start cooking with them. One of the simplest apple desserts is apple crumble. Who can resist hot apple crumble with fresh whipped cream or ice-cream? We had a friend for lunch on Sunday, and I made these at the last minute. They are so simple and quick to prepare, and guaranteed to warm you up on a chilly evening.
I like to make individual apple crumbles in ramekins so that everyone gets the right mix of apple and buttery crumble. These crumbles are spiced with a little nutmeg and cinnamon.
If you are looking for more apple desserts, check out my home-made Apple Tart and Apple and Blackberry Clafoutis.
Makes 4 ramekins
Ingredients
• 450g of peeled and sliced apple
• 2 tablespoons of water
• 1 -2 tablespoon of sugar (depending on sweetness of apples)
• 2-3 drops of vanilla essence
Crumble
• 40g of butter
• 80g of flour
• 40g of sugar
• 2 tablespoons of hazelnut flour/ almond flour
• Pinch of cinnamon
• some freshly grated nutmeg
Method
1. Put the sliced apples, sugar and water in a saucepan and stew over a medium heat until soft and mushy.
2. Taste, and add more sugar if needed. Then, leave to cool as you make the crumble.
3. Preheat the oven to 350F / 180C.
4. Sieve the flour into a large bowl.
5. Rub the butter into the flour with your fingertips, until it resembles breadcrumbs.
6. Next, add the almond meal / hazelnut flour and spices, and mix together.
7. Spoon the stewed apple into 4 ramekins.
8. Spoon the crumble on top.
9. Place the crumbles in the oven for about 20 minutes, or until the crumble is golden.
10. Serve hot with fresh whipped cream or ice-cream.
