This Breakfast Apple Crumble is a warm and tasty way to start your day! It features sweet apples topped with a crunchy oat mixture, making each bite deliciously satisfying.
I love having this crumble with a scoop of yogurt on the side—yummy and filling! Plus, who can resist the smell of baked apples wafting through the kitchen? It’s like a hug in a bowl! 🍏
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: Use any sweet apples like Fuji, Gala, or Honeycrisp. If you’re looking for lower sugar options, you can try tart apples like Granny Smith. They add a nice contrast to the sweetness.
Granulated Sugar: You can cut back on granulated sugar or use honey or maple syrup if you want a natural sweetener. Just remember to adjust the liquid in the recipe if you do!
Rolled Oats: I love using old-fashioned rolled oats for their texture. If you’re gluten-free, certified gluten-free oats are available and work just as well.
All-purpose Flour: Feel free to swap in whole wheat flour for added fiber. For a gluten-free option, use almond flour or a gluten-free baking mix.
Butter: For a dairy-free version, use coconut oil or a plant-based butter substitute. Just make sure it’s cold, similar to regular butter.
How Do I Get the Perfect Crumble Texture?
Achieving the right crumble texture is key to a great apple crumble. You want a mixture that’s crumbly but not too dry or too wet. Follow these tips:
- Use cold butter! Cubes should be straight from the fridge. This helps create flaky layers.
- Work the butter into the dry ingredients gently until it resembles coarse crumbs. Don’t overmix; you want some small chunks for crunch.
- If it seems too dry, add a little more melted butter, but be cautious with the amount. A little goes a long way.
By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll create a deliciously crisp topping that pairs perfectly with the soft baked apples underneath!

Breakfast Apple Crumble
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Apple Filling:
- 5 medium apples (such as Fuji, Gala, or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and sliced
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
For the Crumble Topping:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (can use whole wheat for a healthier option)
- 1/3 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
For Serving:
- Vanilla yogurt or vanilla ice cream (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious breakfast apple crumble will take about 15 minutes to prepare, plus 35-40 minutes for baking. You’ll want to give it a little time to cool before serving, making it perfect for a warm and cozy breakfast!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your crumble cooks evenly. Grab a baking dish (about 8-inch round works well) and lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Apples:
In a large mixing bowl, toss together the sliced apples with granulated sugar, lemon juice, 1 tsp ground cinnamon, and 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg. Mix until the apples are coated evenly with the sweet spices. Then, pour this apple mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
3. Make the Crumble Topping:
In another bowl, combine the rolled oats, all-purpose flour, brown sugar, salt, 1/2 tsp cinnamon, and 1/4 tsp nutmeg. Mix these dry ingredients together. Next, add the cold, cubed butter, and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to work it into the mixture. You’re looking for a crumbly texture with some larger pea-sized pieces throughout.
4. Combine and Bake:
Now, sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the seasoned apples in the baking dish. Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for about 35-40 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the topping is golden brown and the apples are tender—simply poke them with a fork to check!
5. Cool and Serve:
Once done, take the crumble out of the oven and let it cool slightly for about 10 minutes. Serve warm, topped with a generous scoop of vanilla yogurt or ice cream if you’d like. Enjoy your heartwarming breakfast apple crumble!
Can I Use Different Types of Apples for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can use any variety of sweet apples like Fuji, Gala, or Honeycrisp. For a tangier flavor, consider using tart apples like Granny Smith. Mixing different types can also add depth to the dish!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover apple crumble in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! You can easily make the crumble gluten-free by using certified gluten-free oats and a gluten-free flour blend instead of regular flour. Just check the labels to ensure all ingredients are gluten-free.
Can I Make the Apple Filling in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the apple filling ahead of time! Just mix the apples with the sugar, lemon juice, and spices, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a day. When you’re ready to bake, simply assemble with the crumble topping and follow the baking instructions.
