Name: Apple and Blueberry Crumble
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: British
Ingredients: 150g / 5.3oz / 1 cup plain/all-purpose flour; 90g / 3.2oz / 1/2 cup dark brown sugar; 100g / 3.5oz / unsalted butter, cut into cubes and slightly softened; 450g / 1lb peeled and cored green apples, cut into small cubes; 1 tbsp plain flour; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 60ml / 1/4 cup water; 250g / 9oz / 1 2/3 cup fresh blueberries

Question 1

What is crumble?

Accepted Answer

Crumble is a traditional British dessert which is traced back to World War II. It developed huge popularity because it uses few and simple ingredients which was perfect during times of rationing. 

It's still an extremely popular dessert today, owing to the fact that it is delicious, quick and easy. It's also a great way to use up any excess fruit before it goes bad.

Question 2

How to make the topping

Accepted Answer

There are a few things you can do to make sure you get perfect topping, every time. 

Hand mix vs food processor - You can either mix the ingredients for the topping together by hand or use a processor. Personally, I like to do it by hand, as you have more control over how fine or thick you want the crumbs. It's also less washing up which is always a bonus. If you do use a food processor then pulse it on and off so you can keep a close eye on the texture of the crumble. 

Butter - use slightly softened butter that has a little give to it, but is still solid. If you use butter that is too hard then it will take a lot longer to incorporate.

Oatmeal - oatmeal or rolled oats are a popular addition to the crumble topping. If you want to add oatmeal then the simplest way is to sprinkle a few tablespoons over the top so they get nice and crispy in the oven. Alternatively, you can substitute 50g of the flour in the recipe below with oatmeal if you would prefer them worked into the topping.

Question 3

What type of apples should I use?

Accepted Answer

You can use any type of apple you like in crumble, allowing you to customise it based on how sweet or tart you would like the filling. Traditionally green apples are used to give that slight sour note to the crumble, which cuts through some of the sweetness. Bramble or Granny Smith apples are good options to go for if that's your taste preference. 

You can, however, use red apples or even mix things up and use a mixture of both red and green. 

Whatever apples you use, make sure to peel them first, as the skin doesn't work well with the texture of the crumble.

Question 4

How can I tell when it is done?

Accepted Answer

Your apple and blueberry crumble is done when the crumble on top is nice and golden brown and the filling is bubbling. 

You can usually see a little of the filling bubbling up around the edges - which I personally think adds a little extra rustic appeal.

Question 5

What can I serve it with?

Accepted Answer

Traditionally, crumble in the UK is served with custard. However, there are a multitude of other things you can choose to drizzle or spoon over the top:

•	Ice cream - classic vanilla works great since its flavour doesn't detract from the delicious stewed fruit. 
•	Cream - single or whipping cream work well as you can drizzle it over. Although thick double cream is also great spooned on top
•	Mascarpone - while less traditional, this works well because of its mild and unassuming flavour yet creamy texture. You can mix it with a little honey or lemon first to add some extra taste.
•	Crème Fraiche - perfect to add a little refreshing slightly sour creaminess.

Question 6

How long does it keep?

Accepted Answer

Leftovers can be kept covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating use the oven to help maintain its crispy texture and to stop it going soggy, which you may find it does in the microwave.

Apple and Blueberry Crumble

Description

Ingredients

Instructions

Notes

Nutrition