5 Easy Crumble Topping Recipes You'll Love

Crumble toppings are a delightful way to enhance the texture and flavor of a variety of desserts. Whether you're layering it over fruit pies, muffins, or cakes, a crumble topping adds a delightful crunch and sweetness. Here are five easy crumble topping recipes that you'll absolutely love, each with a unique twist that might just become your new favorite.

1. Basic Butter and Brown Sugar Crumble

The simplest and most traditional crumble topping starts with these basic ingredients:

• 1 cup of all-purpose flour
• ¹⁄₂ cup of cold unsalted butter, cubed
• ¹⁄₂ cup of brown sugar
• A pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Mix the flour, brown sugar, and salt in a large bowl.
2. Add the butter and use your fingertips or a pastry cutter to work it into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse breadcrumbs.
3. Continue until the mixture forms small clumps.

This simple mixture can be used immediately or refrigerated for later use. When you’re ready, just sprinkle it over your fruit or batter and bake until golden.

2. Oatmeal Spice Crumble

For an added texture and a warm, aromatic touch, try this oatmeal and spice crumble:

• ¹⁄₂ cup all-purpose flour
• ¹⁄₂ cup rolled oats
• ¹⁄₃ cup granulated sugar
• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¹⁄₄ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ¹⁄₃ cup cold unsalted butter, cubed

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine flour, oats, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
2. Cut in the butter using a pastry cutter or two forks until the mixture is crumbly.
3. Sprinkle over your dessert and bake.

This version adds a delightful contrast with the oats and provides a spicier flavor profile.

3. Chocolate Chip and Coconut Crumble

Looking for a more indulgent treat? Combine the sweet crunch of chocolate chips with the tropical flair of coconut:

• ³⁄₄ cup of all-purpose flour
• ¹⁄₂ cup of unsweetened shredded coconut
• ¹⁄₄ cup of granulated sugar
• ¹⁄₂ cup of cold unsalted butter
• ¹⁄₂ cup of mini chocolate chips

Instructions:

1. Mix flour, sugar, and shredded coconut together in a bowl.
2. Cut in the butter with a pastry blender or pulse it in a food processor until pea-sized clumps form.
3. Fold in the mini chocolate chips.

This crumble is perfect for cakes or brownies, adding an extra layer of flavor.

4. Walnut and Saffron Crumble

This exotic crumble brings together the warmth of walnuts and the luxurious taste of saffron:

• 1 cup of all-purpose flour
• ¹⁄₂ cup of finely chopped walnuts
• ¹⁄₄ cup of granulated sugar
• A pinch of saffron threads (ground or crushed)
• ¹⁄₂ cup of cold unsalted butter

Instructions:

1. Combine flour, walnuts, sugar, and saffron in a bowl.
2. Cut the butter into the dry ingredients until a coarse meal forms.
3. Sprinkle over your chosen dessert base before baking.

The saffron adds a unique flavor that can elevate your dish to an elegant level.

5. Hazelnut and Brown Butter Crumble

For a toasty, nutty crunch, this brown butter hazelnut crumble is the way to go:

• ³⁄₄ cup of all-purpose flour
• ¹⁄₂ cup of finely chopped roasted hazelnuts
• ¹⁄₃ cup of brown sugar
• ¹⁄₂ cup of unsalted butter (brown before use)

Instructions:

1. First, brown the butter in a pan over medium heat until it has a nutty aroma and golden color. Cool slightly.
2. Mix flour, hazelnuts, and brown sugar in a bowl.
3. Stir in the cooled brown butter until you get clumps.

The nutty richness from the brown butter pairs perfectly with the hazelnuts for a decadent topping.

Final Remarks

These crumble topping recipes offer a range of flavors and textures that can transform ordinary desserts into extraordinary treats. Each recipe is straightforward, using ingredients you’re likely to have on hand or can easily source. The key to a perfect crumble is in the cold butter; ensuring it’s properly incorporated until you get that crumbly, lumpy texture will guarantee your dessert’s success. Experiment with these recipes, mix and match the add-ins, and discover what becomes your signature crumble. Whether for a casual family gathering or a special occasion, these toppings will add that extra touch of homemade goodness and warmth to any dessert.

Can I use salted butter for the crumble topping?

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Yes, you can use salted butter, but reduce the additional salt added to the mixture to avoid oversalting your dessert.

How do I know when the crumble topping is done baking?

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The crumble topping should be golden brown, with edges slightly darkened. If in doubt, use a toothpick to check for crispness.

Can crumble topping be made in advance?

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Yes, you can make crumble topping ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze it for longer storage.

How can I prevent the crumble from getting soggy if using it for a pie?

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To prevent a soggy bottom, pre-bake or par-bake the pie crust before adding the filling and crumble topping. Additionally, bake the pie until the crumble is well browned and the filling is bubbling through the topping.

Can I add fruit to the crumble topping?

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Yes, dried fruits like raisins or chopped apricots can be added. Just mix them in with the dry ingredients before adding the butter to avoid making the mixture too wet.