Spiced Cranberry Apple Crumble With Oat Topping Recipe

If you’re craving a dessert that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, look no further than this Spiced Cranberry Apple Crumble With Oat Topping. It beautifully balances the tartness of fresh cranberries with the natural sweetness of apples, all brought together with a cozy blend of cinnamon and nutmeg. The oat topping adds just the right amount of crunch and buttery richness, making each bite utterly irresistible. Whether you’re enjoying it after dinner or sharing it around the table at a gathering, this recipe promises comfort and joy in every spoonful.

Spiced Cranberry Apple Crumble With Oat Topping Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple, wholesome ingredients come together in this recipe, each playing an essential role in creating the perfect harmony of flavors and textures. From the bright tartness of cranberries to the hearty crunch of oats, every component is necessary for that comforting crumble you’ll fall in love with.

  • Fresh cranberries (3 cups): Adds vibrant color and a sharp, tart flavor that balances the sweetness of the apples.
  • Medium apples, peeled and sliced (4): Provide natural sweetness and tender texture once baked.
  • Granulated sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the fruit mixture while helping to soften and caramelize the fruit during baking.
  • Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Warms up the flavor profile and pairs beautifully with both apples and cranberries.
  • Ground nutmeg (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a subtle earthy spice that deepens the overall aroma.
  • Lemon juice (1 tablespoon): Brightens the fruit flavors and balances the sweetness with a touch of acidity.
  • Rolled oats (1 1/2 cups): Creates the hearty, crispy oat topping that contrasts with the soft fruit base.
  • All-purpose flour (1 cup): Helps bind the oat topping for that perfect crumbly texture.
  • Brown sugar, packed (1/2 cup): Adds richness and a subtle molasses hint to the topping.
  • Unsalted butter, softened (1/2 cup): Brings buttery flavor and helps the topping brown beautifully.
  • Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Enhances the flavors and balances sweetness in the crumble.

How to Make Spiced Cranberry Apple Crumble With Oat Topping

Step 1: Prepare the Fruit Mixture

Start by rinsing your cranberries and peeling and slicing the apples. In a large bowl, toss these fresh fruits together with granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. This combination allows the fruit to mingle with rich spices and sweet-tart flavors, creating the foundation of your crumble. Once everything is well mixed, spread it evenly in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. This step ensures your fruit base cooks evenly and bubbles with inviting aroma once baked.

Step 2: Make the Oat Topping

In a separate bowl, combine rolled oats, all-purpose flour, brown sugar, salt, and softened butter. Using your fingers, a pastry cutter, or forks, mix until it forms a crumbly texture with pea-sized bits. This crumbly oat topping is the heart of your crunch factor and the perfect contrast to the tender fruit below. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the fruit layer, ensuring every bit is covered for a golden, crispy finish.

Step 3: Bake to Perfection

Place your layered dish into a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C). Bake for 35 to 40 minutes or until you see the topping turn a beautiful golden brown and the fruit mixture is bubbling at the edges. This lovely caramelization and bubbling fruit bring out those cozy, spiced flavors that make this dish so special. Once done, let the crumble cool slightly before serving to allow the juices to thicken just a bit.

How to Serve Spiced Cranberry Apple Crumble With Oat Topping

Spiced Cranberry Apple Crumble With Oat Topping Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Nothing complements this crumble better than a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream that slowly melts over the warm, spiced fruit. Or, for a lighter touch, add a dollop of freshly whipped cream with a sprinkle of cinnamon on top—this adds an extra layer of indulgence without overpowering the natural flavors.

Side Dishes

If you’re serving this dessert at a holiday or casual gathering, warm spiced apple cider is a fantastic accompaniment that amplifies those fall-like flavors. For a lighter contrast, a cup of fruity herbal tea balances the sweetness and adds a refreshing note to each bite.

Creative Ways to Present

For an elegant touch, serve the crumble in individual ramekins straight from the oven. You can also toss in some toasted chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts on top for an enhanced crunch and nutty flavor. If you want to dress it up further, drizzle some caramel or maple syrup to add a glossy, sweet finish that’s sure to impress guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Spiced Cranberry Apple Crumble With Oat Topping stores beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors actually meld and deepen overnight, making it a great treat to enjoy the next day—warm or cold.

Freezing

This crumble freezes wonderfully, making it a perfect make-ahead dessert. Simply cool it completely, cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and pop it in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To bring the crumble back to life, reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through and the topping regains its crispiness. You can also microwave individual portions, but baking helps keep that oat topping perfectly crunchy and delicious.

FAQs

Can I Use Frozen Cranberries for This Crumble?

Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work wonderfully in this recipe. Just be sure to thaw them and drain any excess liquid to avoid making your fruit mixture overly watery. Frozen berries add the same tart kick and are a great option when fresh cranberries aren’t in season.

How Long Can I Store Leftover Crumble?

You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, freezing is your best bet, preserving all the flavors for months to come.

Is This Recipe Suitable for Vegan Diets?

With a few simple swaps like using vegan butter instead of regular butter, this crumble can easily be made vegan. The natural sweetness and fruit flavors will still shine, making it a comforting option for everyone.

What Spices Can I Substitute if I Don’t Have Nutmeg?

If you don’t have nutmeg on hand, a pinch of ground cloves or allspice works well as a warm substitute. Alternatively, you could boost the cinnamon a little to maintain that cozy spice profile.

Can I Make This Crumble Gluten-Free?

Yes! Simply use gluten-free oats and substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Your crumble will still have a delightful texture and the same cozy flavor everyone loves.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been searching for that perfect cozy dessert to brighten up your day, the Spiced Cranberry Apple Crumble With Oat Topping is an absolute must-try. It’s simple to make, filled with layers of flavor, and offers that unforgettable mix of warm spices with tart and sweet fruit. Plus, it’s just as lovely to share with friends or family as it is to savor quietly by yourself. So, grab your ingredients and get ready to create a dessert that’s sure to become a cherished favorite in your recipe collection!

Print

Spiced Cranberry Apple Crumble With Oat Topping Recipe

Discover the perfect balance of tart cranberries and sweet apples in this Spiced Cranberry Apple Crumble with an irresistible oat topping. This easy-to-make dessert is infused with warm cinnamon and nutmeg spices, topped with a crunchy, buttery oat crumble, and baked to golden perfection. Ideal for cozy evenings or holiday gatherings, it’s delicious served warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

  • Author: reem
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 810 servings 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

Fruit Filling

  • 3 cups fresh cranberries, rinsed
  • 4 medium apples, peeled and sliced
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Oat Topping

  • 1 1/2 cups rolled oats
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare it for baking the crumble evenly.
  2. Prepare Fruit Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the rinsed cranberries and peeled, sliced apples. Toss with granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and lemon juice until well coated. Spread this mixture evenly into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
  3. Make Oat Crumble Topping: In a separate bowl, mix rolled oats, all-purpose flour, brown sugar, softened unsalted butter, and salt. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend until crumbly and combined.
  4. Assemble and Bake: Sprinkle the oat crumble mixture evenly over the fruit layer in the baking dish. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the fruit filling is bubbly.
  5. Serve Warm: Remove the crumble from the oven and let it cool slightly. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans or a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the oat topping.
  • Frozen cranberries can be used as a substitute for fresh cranberries with great results.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container; refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
  • To make this recipe vegan, replace butter with a plant-based margarine or coconut oil.
  • For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with oat flour or a gluten-free flour blend.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 1/9th of recipe)
  • Calories: 250
  • Sugar: 22g
  • Sodium: 90mg
  • Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 42g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 20mg

Keywords: cranberry apple crumble, spiced crumble, oat topping dessert, autumn dessert, baked fruit dessert, holiday crumble

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