Apple Crumble with Vanilla Ice Cream

Introduction

There are few desserts that evoke the warmth of home quite like a classic apple crumble served with vanilla ice cream. With its tender, cinnamon-spiced apples and golden, buttery topping, this timeless dish has been cherished across generations. At Best Bread Machine, we value those comforting recipes that come together easily and bring loved ones to the table. This apple crumble is not just dessert—it’s an experience of cozy tradition and kitchen joy.

Whether it’s a weekend treat, a holiday dessert, or just something to warm up a cold evening, this apple crumble offers simplicity, flavor, and a nostalgic sense of comfort.

Why Apple Crumble is Always a Good Idea

• Wholesome ingredients: Apples, oats, butter, and spices
• Easy to make: No pastry, no fancy tools
• Crowd-pleaser: Loved by adults and kids alike
• Make-ahead friendly: Reheats beautifully
• Perfect with ice cream: The contrast of warm crumble and cold vanilla is unbeatable

This is a dessert that asks little but delivers big. Every bite is a blend of soft, juicy apples, crispy topping, and melting vanilla ice cream.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Serves 6 to 8.

For the Apple Filling:

• 6 medium apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch or flour

the Crumble Topping:

• 3/4 cup rolled oats
• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed

For Serving:

• High-quality vanilla ice cream (homemade or store-bought)

Equipment Needed

• 9-inch square or round baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• Peeler and corer
• Knife and cutting board
• Pastry cutter or fingers for the topping

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Apples

Peel, core, and slice the apples into even pieces. In a large bowl, toss them with sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cornstarch until well coated.

Transfer the mixture to the greased baking dish and spread evenly.

2. Make the Crumble Topping

In another bowl, mix together oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Add the cold butter cubes and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to rub it into the dry ingredients until it resembles coarse crumbs.

3. Assemble and Bake

Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the apples.

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden and the filling is bubbling around the edges.

Allow to cool slightly before serving.

4. Serve with Vanilla Ice Cream

Scoop warm apple crumble into bowls and top with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream. Serve immediately.

Tips for the Best Apple Crumble

• Use a mix of apples: Combines sweetness and tartness
• Don’t skip the lemon juice: It balances the sugar and adds brightness
• Chill the butter: Cold butter helps create a crisp topping
• Check for bubbling: The filling should be hot and bubbling before you remove it from the oven
• Let it rest: Allow 10–15 minutes of cooling before serving to let flavors meld

Make-Ahead and Storage

• Make-ahead: Assemble the crumble and refrigerate unbaked for up to 24 hours
• Refrigerate: Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 4 days
• Reheat: Warm in the oven at 325°F (160°C) or microwave individual servings
• Freeze: Freeze baked crumble for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen or thaw overnight

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned apples or pie filling? Yes, in a pinch. Fresh apples are best for texture, but canned can work.

What type of oats should I use? Rolled oats are ideal. Avoid instant oats as they become mushy.

Can I make it dairy-free? Yes, substitute vegan butter and serve with dairy-free ice cream.

How do I keep the topping crunchy? Use cold butter and do not overmix. Keep the topping chilled until ready to bake.

Can I add nuts? Chopped walnuts or pecans make a great addition to the crumble topping.

Flavor Variations

• Berry Apple Crumble: Add fresh or frozen berries with the apples
• Maple Crumble: Use maple syrup in place of some sugar in the filling
• Spiced Crumble: Add ginger, cloves, or cardamom for a deeper spice profile
• Crumble with Nuts: Mix in chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds
• Caramel Apple Crumble: Drizzle with caramel sauce before baking or before serving

Pairing Suggestions

• Hot herbal tea or spiced cider
• A splash of heavy cream or dollop of whipped cream
• Toasted coconut sprinkled on top
• Chai-spiced ice cream or cinnamon gelato as a twist on vanilla

Making It Kid-Friendly

• Let kids help peel or toss apples (with supervision)
• Let them mix the crumble with their hands
• Serve in mini ramekins for individual portions
• Add fun toppings like crushed graham crackers or mini marshmallows after baking

A Bowl of Cozy Comfort

At Best Bread Machine, we believe dessert should be approachable, nostalgic, and full of flavor. Apple crumble with vanilla ice cream checks all those boxes. It’s simple enough for weeknights and special enough for holidays.

Whether you serve it straight from the dish or dressed up with a scoop of ice cream, this crumble is a dessert you’ll return to again and again. It invites conversation, lingers on the tongue, and brings people together.

Conclusion

Apple crumble with vanilla ice cream is more than a dessert—it’s a celebration of tradition, comfort, and the little joys of everyday life. With basic ingredients, a few simple steps, and a generous scoop of ice cream, you can create a warm and memorable treat that satisfies the whole family.

Make it once and it will quickly become a favorite in your home kitchen.