Maple Crumble

Maple crumble is a beloved dessert that captures the rich flavors of maple syrup and combines it with a delightful textural contrast. The origins of crumble desserts trace back to Britain, likely during the food rationing period of World War II, where bakers creatively used available ingredients to craft a delicious treat. Today, the delightful combination of crispy topping and tender, sweetened fruit fillings finds fans worldwide.

Ingredients

• Maple Syrup - 1/2 cup
• All-Purpose Flour - 1 cup
• Rolled Oats - 3/4 cup
• Brown Sugar - 1/2 cup
• Unsalted Butter - 1/2 cup, chilled and cut into cubes
• Walnuts - 1/4 cup, chopped
• Apples - 4 large, peeled, cored, and sliced
• Lemon Juice - 2 tablespoons
• Cinnamon - 1 teaspoon
• Nutmeg - 1/2 teaspoon

Preparation

To prepare your delicious maple crumble, start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and to ensure a lovely, golden-brown crust on the sides.

Next, begin with the fruit filling. In a large mixing bowl, combine the apples, maple syrup, lemon juice, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Toss these ingredients until the apples are evenly coated. Once mixed, transfer them into the prepared baking dish, spreading them evenly.

Crumb Topping

To create the crumb topping, in another bowl, mix together the flour, oats, and brown sugar. Add the chilled butter and work it into the dry ingredients using your fingers or a pastry cutter. Continue until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the chopped walnuts for added texture and flavor.

Assembly and Baking

Sprinkle the crumb mixture evenly over the fruit filling in the baking dish. Ensure the entire surface is covered for a perfect topping. Place your assembly into the preheated oven.

Cooking Time

Bake for about 45 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are tender. You can check doneness by piercing the fruit with a fork to ensure they've softened. Consider using a cooking timer to keep track of this stage.

Serving Suggestions

Allow the maple crumble to cool slightly before serving. It can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an added treat. This dessert is perfect for family gatherings, as its comforting flavors bring a sense of warmth and nostalgia.