Armagh Crunch

Background of Armagh Crunch

The Armagh Crunch is a delightful apple-based dessert hailing from County Armagh in Northern Ireland, famously known as the Orchard County. This area is renowned for its apple orchards, particularly the cultivation of the Armagh Bramley apple, a fruit with a perfect tartness and juicy texture that makes it ideal for baking. This dish reflects the agricultural heritage and traditional recipes of the region, evolving over centuries to become a staple in local households. Perfect for enjoying during the apple harvest season, the Armagh Crunch is a comforting treat that combines the crispiness of a crumble top with the lusciousness of stewed apples.

Ingredients

• Armagh Bramley apples - 6 medium-sized, peeled, cored, and sliced
• Granulated sugar - 150g
• Brown sugar - 50g
• Plain flour - 100g
• Butter - 100g, chilled and cubed
• Rolled oats - 50g
• Cinnamon powder - 1 tsp
• Nutmeg powder - 1/2 tsp
• Vanilla extract - 1 tsp
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Pinch of salt

Preparation

Before beginning the preparation, it is essential to select high-quality, fresh Armagh Bramley apples as they form the foundation of this recipe. Peel, core, and slice the apples, ensuring that they are uniform in size for even cooking. Next, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) to have it ready for baking.

Preparing the Apple Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced Armagh Bramley apples with the juice of one lemon. This not only adds a touch of zest but also prevents the apples from browning. Add in 50g of sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon powder, and nutmeg powder. Toss the mixture gently to ensure the apples are evenly coated with the spices and sugar.

Making the Crumble Topping

In another bowl, mix together the flour, the remaining 100g of sugar, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt. Add the chilled and cubed butter to the flour mixture. Using your fingertips, rub the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse breadcrumbs. Stir in the oats to complete the crumble topping.

Cooking Process

Assembling the Dish

Grease a baking dish with a small amount of butter to prevent sticking. Evenly spread the prepared apple mixture over the base of the dish. Gently layer the crumble topping over the apples, ensuring it is evenly distributed for uniform baking.

Baking

Place the assembled dish in the preheated oven and set your timer for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are tender. It is important to keep an eye on the crumble in the last 10 minutes of baking to prevent the topping from burning.

Enjoying Armagh Crunch

The Armagh Crunch is best enjoyed warm, ideally straight out of the oven when the aroma of baked Armagh Bramley apples and spices fills the air. Serve it on its own or with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream to complement the warmth of the dish with a cool, creamy contrast. Alternatively, you might prefer a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a drizzle of custard to enhance its rich flavors. This dessert is perfect for gatherings or simply as a comforting treat for yourself.

Conclusion

Incorporating local ingredients and traditional methods, the Armagh Crunch reflects the culinary heritage of County Armagh and Northern Ireland as a whole. Its rich history and delightful flavors make it a worthwhile addition to any baker's repertoire.