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When chilly nights settle in and apples crowd the market, this cinnamon apple crumble with peanut butter topping has become my cosiest answer to the dessert question. The gentle tartness of baked apples meets a buttery oat topping, sneakily enriched by peanut butter. It is that special kind of sweet that sticks to your ribs, smells heavenly, and only needs a scoop of ice cream to make everyone at the table happy.
This recipe became a regular in my autumn lineup when my best friend requested something cozy but with a little unexpected twist. One crumble later, it was added to our list of favorites and is now a fall tradition.
Ingredients
- Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples: these hold up to baking and keep a slight tanginess to balance sweetness
- Lemon juice: brightens the apples and helps keep their color
- Granulated sugar: adds sweetness while letting the apple flavor shine
- Ground cinnamon: classic warmth that pairs perfectly with apples
- Ground nutmeg: brings gentle spice and depth
- All purpose flour: thickens the apple filling so it is never watery
- Rolled oats: give that comforting crumbly texture up top
- All purpose flour (in the topping): keeps it a little tender and helps bind everything
- Light brown sugar: provides caramel notes that complement both apple and peanut butter
- Ground cinnamon (in the topping): echoes the warmth of the filling
- Salt: brings out all the other flavors
- Creamy peanut butter: creates that melt in your mouth nuttiness
- Unsalted butter: gives rich flavor and helps the crumble crisp as it bakes
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the baking dish:
- Grease a nine inch baking dish with a little butter or oil so nothing sticks and cleanup is easier.
- Make the apple filling:
- Mix peeled cored and sliced apples in a large bowl with lemon juice sugar cinnamon nutmeg and flour until every piece is coated. The flour helps make a juicy but never soupy filling.
- Layer the apples:
- Spread the coated apple slices evenly in your prepared dish using your fingers or a spatula. Try to get an even layer so the crumble bakes uniformly.
- Mix the crumble topping:
- Combine oats flour brown sugar cinnamon and salt in a separate bowl. Add peanut butter and melted butter. Use a fork or your fingertips to mix until the topping clumps but some small chunks remain for those lovely crispy bites.
- Top the apples:
- Gently scatter the crumble mixture over the apples making sure some bigger clumps are left for crunch.
- Bake the crumble:
- Slide the dish into a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Bake for forty minutes until the apples are bubbling and the top is golden and crisp.
- Cool and serve:
- Let the crumble cool for ten minutes so the juices settle before serving. Enjoy it warm or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
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Honestly my favorite part is how the peanut butter melts into the oats and brown sugar. It brings back memories of baking with my little sister who always tried to sneak an extra scoop of peanut butter in every batch. Now when I serve this at the table the smell reminds me of those cozy afternoons together.
Storage Tips
This crumble keeps best in the fridge covered tightly for up to three days. Just heat it up in the oven or microwave when ready to serve. If you want to make it ahead prepare everything and assemble then bake just before serving for a freshly crisp topping.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you are out of peanut butter almond butter works well though the flavor will change a bit. Gluten free flour and oats can be swapped in for those who need it just check your baking powder and oats are certified gluten free. For a non dairy version use plant butter.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this crumble warm on its own or with a generous spoon of vanilla ice cream or fresh whipped cream for extra indulgence. For a brunch treat pair leftovers with Greek yogurt and a drizzle of honey.
Cultural and Historical Context
Apple crumbles started as a creative way for home cooks to make comforting desserts during rationing eras when pastry ingredients were scarce. The addition of peanut butter is a nod to classic American flavors and makes this crumble feel both new and nostalgic.
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Common Questions
- → What type of apples works best?
Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples provide the right balance of tartness and texture for baking.
- → Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, substitute all-purpose flour and oats with certified gluten-free alternatives for a gluten-free option.
- → Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
Certainly! Crunchy peanut butter adds extra texture and a pleasant nutty bite to the crumble.
- → How should I serve this dessert?
Serve warm, ideally topped with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a delicious finish.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Gently reheat before serving.
- → Can I prepare this in advance?
You can assemble ahead and refrigerate unbaked, then bake fresh before serving for the best texture.