Easy Oat-Topped Apple & Pear Crumble Recipe

Nothing is more comforting than a golden, crispy crumble fresh out of the oven, filling your home with the sweet aroma of baked fruit and cinnamon. Today, we’re bringing you a simple yet delicious recipe: Simple Oat Topped Apple and Pear Crumble. This version combines the natural sweetness of apples and pears with a crunchy oat topping that adds an irresistible texture to every bite.

Crumble is a timeless dessert, perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a family dinner, a cozy brunch with friends, or a solo indulgence. What makes it even more special is how easy it is to make and customize to your taste. Whether you love warming spices like nutmeg and ginger or prefer to add crunchy nuts, this crumble can be tailored to your preferences.

Plus, this recipe is perfect for using up ripe fruit sitting in your kitchen. Instead of letting those apples and pears go to waste, transform them into a delicious homemade treat! With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a warm, comforting dessert that everyone will love.

What You’ll Need

Before we dive into making this delicious apple and pear crumble, let’s make sure we have all the necessary ingredients. This recipe uses simple, natural ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen.

For the Fruit Filling

3 apples (Granny Smith for tartness or Golden Delicious for a sweeter flavor)
2 pears (Bosc or Anjou, which hold their shape well when baked)
2 tablespoons lemon juice (prevents oxidation and enhances flavor)
¼ cup (50g) brown sugar (or honey for a more natural option)
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (adds warmth and depth)
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional, but adds a subtle spiced note)
1 tablespoon cornstarch (helps thicken the fruit juices)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for a sweet, fragrant touch)

For the Crumble Topping

¾ cup (80g) rolled oats (adds a delightful crunch)
½ cup (70g) all-purpose flour (or whole wheat flour for a more rustic feel)
¼ cup (60g) cold butter, cubed (or margarine for a dairy-free alternative)
¼ cup (60g) brown sugar (slightly caramelizes when baked)
A pinch of salt (balances the flavors)
¼ cup (30g) chopped nuts (optional: almonds, pecans, or hazelnuts for extra crunch)

This ingredient list ensures a perfectly balanced crumble, with a soft, juicy fruit filling and a crunchy, golden topping. You can also tweak the quantities slightly based on your taste preferences.

How to Make Oat-Topped Apple Pear Crumble

Making this Simple Oat Topped Apple and Pear Crumble is incredibly easy, requiring just a few simple steps. Follow this detailed guide to achieve the perfect balance of soft, caramelized fruit and a crispy, golden topping.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch (23 cm) baking dish with butter or a non-stick spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Fruit Filling

Wash, peel, and core the apples and pears. Cut them into evenly sized slices or small cubes.
Place the chopped fruit into a large mixing bowl and add 2 tablespoons of lemon juice. Toss well to prevent browning.
Sprinkle the fruit with ¼ cup (50g) of brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, ½ teaspoon of nutmeg (if using), and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch.
Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and mix everything until the fruit is well coated.
Transfer the fruit mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

Step 3: Make the Crumble Topping

In a medium-sized bowl, combine ¾ cup (80g) of rolled oats, ½ cup (70g) of flour, and a pinch of salt.
Add ¼ cup (60g) of cold butter, cut into cubes.
Using your fingers or a pastry cutter, rub the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. The texture should be slightly clumpy.
Stir in ¼ cup (60g) of brown sugar and mix gently.
If using nuts, fold in ¼ cup (30g) of chopped almonds, pecans, or hazelnuts for extra crunch.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Evenly sprinkle the crumble mixture over the fruit filling, ensuring it covers the entire surface.
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crisp, and the fruit is bubbling underneath.
Once baked, remove from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows the fruit juices to settle and thicken slightly.

Your Apple and Pear Crumble is now ready to be enjoyed! For the best experience, serve it warm with your favorite accompaniments.

Serving and Storage Tips for Oat-Topped Apple Pear Crumble

How to Serve Your Apple and Pear Crumble

This crumble is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. Here are some delicious ways to enjoy it:

Classic Style: Serve it warm, straight from the oven, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The contrast between the hot crumble and cold ice cream is simply irresistible.
With Yogurt: For a lighter option, pair it with Greek yogurt or vanilla-flavored yogurt. The tanginess of the yogurt complements the sweetness of the crumble perfectly.
Drizzled with Honey or Caramel: A drizzle of honey or homemade caramel sauce can take this dessert to the next level.
With Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream adds a creamy, airy texture that enhances the crumble’s flavors.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have leftovers, follow these simple storage tips to keep your crumble fresh:

At Room Temperature: If you plan to eat the remaining crumble within 24 hours, cover it with foil or plastic wrap and leave it at room temperature.
In the Refrigerator: For longer storage, place the crumble in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. When ready to eat, reheat it in the oven at 325°F (165°C) for 10–15 minutes to restore its crispiness.
In the Freezer: This crumble freezes well! Transfer cooled portions to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you want to prepare this crumble in advance:

Assemble the fruit filling and topping separately. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready, assemble and bake as instructed.
Alternatively, bake the crumble completely and reheat it before serving for a fresh-out-of-the-oven experience.

Mistakes to Avoid for Oat-Topped Apple Pear Crumble

Even though making a crumble is simple, a few common mistakes can impact the final result. To ensure your Apple and Pear Crumble turns out perfectly every time, avoid these pitfalls.

1. Using the Wrong Type of Apples or Pears

Not all apples and pears bake the same way. Some varieties turn too mushy, while others remain too firm.

Best apples for crumble: Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, Pink Lady, or Golden Delicious. These apples hold their shape well and provide a good balance of sweetness and acidity.
Best pears for crumble: Bosc and Anjou pears are ideal because they remain slightly firm after baking. Bartlett pears, while delicious, tend to become too soft.

Using the wrong variety can lead to a filling that’s either too mushy or too dry.

2. Not Adding a Thickening Agent

When baking fruit, natural juices are released, and if not thickened properly, the crumble can become watery. To prevent this:

Always add 1 tablespoon of cornstarch (or flour) to the fruit filling.
If your fruit is extra juicy, increase the amount slightly.

This ensures a thick, luscious filling rather than a runny mess.

3. Overworking the Crumble Topping

The perfect crumble topping should be crumbly, not dense. If you overmix or overwork the butter into the flour and oats, you’ll end up with a doughy texture instead of a crispy topping.

Use cold butter and gently rub it into the dry ingredients using your fingertips.
Stop mixing once the mixture forms pea-sized clumps.

4. Skipping the Resting Time

Once baked, the crumble should rest for at least 10 minutes before serving. This helps the fruit juices thicken and settle, preventing a soupy consistency.

5. Not Balancing the Sweetness

Since apples and pears are naturally sweet, adding too much sugar can make the crumble overly sugary.

If using naturally sweet fruits (like ripe pears), reduce the sugar slightly.
Consider using a mix of brown sugar and honey for a deeper flavor without overpowering sweetness.

By avoiding these mistakes, you’ll achieve a perfectly textured, flavorful crumble every time!

Tips and Tricks for Oat-Topped Apple Pear Crumble

To make your Simple Oat Topped Apple and Pear Crumble even better, try these expert tips and tricks!

1. Enhance the Flavor with Spices

Cinnamon is a classic choice, but don’t be afraid to experiment:

Nutmeg adds a subtle warmth.
Ginger gives a mild spiced kick.
Cardamom pairs beautifully with pears for an exotic touch.
Cloves add depth and complexity when used sparingly.

A small pinch of these spices can elevate the flavor profile of your crumble.

2. Make It Extra Crunchy

For an ultra-crispy topping, try these add-ins:

Chopped nuts: Almonds, walnuts, pecans, or hazelnuts add crunch.
Shredded coconut: A hint of coconut complements the fruit beautifully.
Extra oats: Increase the oat content slightly for a chunkier texture.

To ensure maximum crispiness, bake the crumble uncovered for the full duration.

3. Add a Surprise Layer

Want to make your crumble extra special? Try layering an ingredient between the fruit and topping:

A thin layer of almond flour absorbs excess juices and adds a subtle nutty taste.
A drizzle of maple syrup enhances natural sweetness.
Chia or flax seeds help thicken the fruit filling naturally.

These small touches can make a big difference in the final result!

4. Use a Cast Iron Skillet for a Rustic Touch

For a beautiful presentation and even heat distribution, bake your crumble in a cast iron skillet instead of a glass dish. This helps the topping become even crispier.

5. Customize for Special Diets

If you’re catering to specific dietary needs, here are some easy swaps:

Gluten-free: Use almond flour or oat flour instead of all-purpose flour.
Dairy-free: Swap butter for coconut oil or margarine.
Reduced sugar: Replace brown sugar with a natural sweetener like maple syrup or coconut sugar.

By applying these tricks, you’ll create a crumble that is both delicious and unique every time!

Suggestions

While the Simple Oat Topped Apple and Pear Crumble is already delicious on its own, you can customize it in several ways to match different preferences and occasions. Whether you want to make it healthier, more indulgent, or suitable for various dietary needs, here are some exciting variations and serving ideas.

1. Flavor Variations

If you want to switch up the flavors, try these unique combinations:

Apple, Pear & Berry Mix – Add fresh or frozen berries (blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries) to bring in a tangy contrast to the sweetness of apples and pears.
Apple, Pear & Banana – A mashed or sliced banana mixed into the fruit filling adds natural sweetness and a creamy texture.
Caramel Apple-Pear Crumble – Drizzle homemade caramel sauce over the fruit before baking for a rich, indulgent treat.
Apple-Pear and Citrus Twist – Add fresh orange zest and a splash of lemon juice to brighten the flavor and balance the sweetness.
Spiced Apple-Pear Crumble – Add a teaspoon of pumpkin spice mix or extra cinnamon for a cozy, autumn-inspired dessert.

These small tweaks can make your crumble feel brand new every time you bake it!

2. Alternative Toppings

While the classic oat topping is delicious, you can experiment with different textures and flavors:

Granola Topping – Instead of traditional oats, use your favorite granola for an extra crunchy texture.
Streusel Crumble – Replace part of the oats with almond flour and mix in slivered almonds for a nutty, buttery topping.
Coconut & Pecan Crumble – Add shredded coconut and chopped pecans to create a tropical-inspired dessert.
Chocolate Lover’s Crumble – Sprinkle mini dark chocolate chips into the oat mixture for a delicious chocolatey twist.

3. How to Serve It

This crumble is best served warm, but what you pair it with can enhance its flavors:

Classic choice: A scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Healthier option: Greek yogurt with a drizzle of honey.
Indulgent treat: Warm custard or caramel sauce.
Dairy-free alternative: Coconut whipped cream or almond milk-based ice cream.

You can also serve it for breakfast by adding a handful of nuts and a spoonful of yogurt for a more balanced meal!

4. Making It Kid-Friendly

For a fun, interactive twist, let kids create their own mini crumbles by layering fruit and toppings in individual ramekins. They’ll love having their own personalized dessert!

5. Holiday or Special Occasion Twist

For a festive feel, add cranberries and a hint of nutmeg during the holiday season. You can also serve it in a decorative dish with a dusting of powdered sugar to make it extra special.

No matter how you customize it, this crumble remains an easy and versatile dessert for any occasion!

FAQ

1. Can I Make This Crumble Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can prepare the fruit filling and the oat topping separately, then store them in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Assemble just before baking to keep the topping crisp.

Alternatively, you can bake the crumble ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to restore the crispiness.

2. Can I Freeze Apple and Pear Crumble?

Absolutely! Here’s how:

Before Baking: Assemble the crumble in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as usual.
After Baking: Let the crumble cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven until warmed through.

3. How Do I Keep My Crumble Topping Crispy?

A soggy topping is usually due to excess moisture from the fruit or improper storage. To keep it crispy:

Bake the crumble uncovered for the full baking time.
Store leftovers in an open container in the fridge to prevent condensation.
Reheat in the oven, not the microwave, to maintain the crunch.

4. Can I Use Canned or Frozen Fruit Instead of Fresh?

Yes, but with some adjustments:

Canned fruit: Drain excess liquid and reduce added sugar to prevent it from being too sweet.
Frozen fruit: Thaw and drain any excess liquid before using to avoid a watery crumble.

5. What Can I Use Instead of Butter in the Crumble Topping?

If you need a dairy-free or vegan alternative, try:

Coconut oil (for a slightly tropical flavor).
Margarine (for a more traditional taste).
Nut butter (for a nutty, protein-packed version).

6. Can I Reduce the Sugar in This Recipe?

Yes! If you prefer a naturally sweetened version, try:

Reducing the sugar by half and adding extra cinnamon or nutmeg for flavor.
Using honey or maple syrup instead of brown sugar.
Adding naturally sweet fruits like ripe bananas or dates.

7. What’s the Best Way to Reheat Leftover Crumble?

For the best results, reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes. This keeps the topping crispy. If in a hurry, you can microwave it for 30-60 seconds, but the topping may become softer.

Conclusion

The Simple Oat Topped Apple and Pear Crumble is a timeless dessert that embodies comfort, warmth, and simplicity. With its soft, caramelized fruit filling and crisp, golden oat topping, it’s a treat that brings people together, whether it’s for a cozy family dinner, a holiday gathering, or just a quiet moment of indulgence.

One of the best things about this crumble is its versatility. You can switch up the fruits, experiment with different toppings, or even adjust the sweetness to suit your taste. It’s also an excellent way to use up extra apples and pears before they go to waste, making it both a delicious and practical choice for home cooks.

Beyond its delightful taste and ease of preparation, this dessert is also a great introduction to baking for beginners. With just a few simple steps and minimal ingredients, anyone can create a homemade dessert that tastes like it came straight from a bakery. Plus, it’s naturally adaptable to dietary preferences—whether you need it gluten-free, dairy-free, or lower in sugar, there are plenty of ways to customize it.

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s easy to make, satisfying, and endlessly customizable, this apple and pear crumble is a must-try. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven with a scoop of ice cream, or reheated the next day for breakfast with a spoonful of yogurt, it never fails to hit the spot.

Now that you have all the tips, tricks, and variations at your disposal, it’s time to head to the kitchen and make your own perfect crumble. Don’t forget to share your results and let us know—what’s your favorite way to enjoy this classic dessert? 🍏🍐✨