My idea of the perfect apple crumble is one that prioritizes the crumble portion instead of just calling it a topping. For that reason, this buttery, rich, and sweet apple crumble recipe is my favorite; about 50% crumble and 50% apple filling, each bite has the perfect balance of texture and tartness.

Here’s why you’ll love this easy apple crumble recipe

This recipe requires only two bowls and no stand mixer – most of the time required to make it is in the peeling of the apples (which can be prepped in advance), and in the 35 minute bake time.
This apple crumble recipe prioritizes the crumble topping, with the apple mixture perfectly balancing with its texture and tartness.
This apple crumble can be prepped in advance and easily warmed back up in the oven if you’re planning to host.

Baby-on-Hip Score

For every recipe, I rate how manageable it is to cook with a baby on your hip. Here’s how the scale works:

5 – Easy Peasy: One-handed prep possible. Minimal chopping or stirring. Great for when baby is fussy or napping on your shoulder or just requires attention 24 hours a day like my youngest.

4 – Pretty Easy: Some two-handed tasks, but manageable. Might require a quick pause or a short distraction.

3 – Moderate: Requires attention and some two-handed work. Best for when baby is entertained or in a safe spot nearby.

2 – Challenging: Many hands-on steps and/or tasks that require your full attention. Only attempt if you have help or baby is napping.

1 – Nap-Time Only: Very difficult to do while holding a baby. Reserve for quiet moments or when someone else can assist….or when you’re feeling really brave and up for the challenge!

I’d rank this yummy fall dessert at a 3. The most difficult and time consuming part is the peeling and chopping of the apples – from there, it’s smooth sailing. I’d recommend peeling and chopping the apples the night before or morning of.

What kind of apples should I use for apple crumble?

Because the apples get mixed up with sugar and butter and cooked down, I wouldn’t stress too much about what kind of apple you choose for this recipe. Green apples inherently carry a bit more tartness to them, so if you’re a big fan of green apples, use those! I personally have Cosmic Crisps around my house at all times, so that’s what I used in this case; again, though, the texture won’t matter at the end of the day because the apples are getting cooked down to a gooey cinnamoney filling.

Can I prep my apples ahead of time?

Yes! Again, because the apples are getting mixed up and cooked down, we don’t need to worry about them oxidizing. I recommend peeling and chopping your apples whenever you have a free moment, then tossing them in a container for easy access later.

Tips and tricks

Prep the apples ahead of time for easy, one-handed cooking later on.
Check out my Top 5 Ice Cream brands post to pick the perfect vanilla ice cream/apple crumble pairing.
Double the recipe and bake in a 9×13 to serve a larger crowd.