Introduction

Christmas is a time for warmth, joy, and indulgence, and what better way to celebrate the season than with a delightful Christmas crumble? This festive dessert combines the sweetness of seasonal fruits and a crumbly topping, making it a perfect treat for family gatherings and holiday feasts. Jamie Oliver’s Christmas crumble is a wonderful way to highlight the flavors of winter fruits while providing a comforting dish that everyone will enjoy.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

– 500g seasonal fruits (such as apples, pears, or berries)
– 100g sugar (to taste)
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 200g plain flour
– 100g unsalted butter (cold and cubed)
– 50g rolled oats
– 75g chopped nuts (optional)
– A pinch of salt

Prep Time

Preparation for this delectable crumble takes approximately 30 minutes. This includes washing, peeling, and chopping the fruits, as well as preparing the crumble topping.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

The cooking time is around 30-40 minutes, during which the crumble will bake to a golden perfection. The total time for making this Christmas crumble, including prep and cook time, is about 1 hour and 10 minutes. This recipe yields approximately 6-8 servings, making it ideal for holiday gatherings.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Prepare the Fruit

Start by washing and preparing your chosen fruits. Peel, core, and chop the apples and pears into bite-sized pieces. If using frozen fruits, ensure they are fully thawed and drained.

Combine the Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the prepared fruits with sugar, zest, and spices. Give it a good stir to ensure the fruits are evenly coated.

Add Cornflour

Sprinkle the cornflour over the fruit mixture. This will help thicken the filling as it cooks. Mix gently to incorporate.

Make the Topping

In another bowl, combine flour, oats, sugar, and ground almonds. Stir to blend the dry ingredients. Then, rub in the butter until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.

Assemble the Crumble

In a baking dish, spread the fruit mixture evenly. Top it with the crumble mixture, ensuring it’s evenly distributed to cover the fruit.

Bake the Crumble

Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F). Place the assembled crumble in the oven and bake for approximately 30–40 minutes until the top is golden brown and the fruit is bubbling.

Serve

Once baked, remove the crumble from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving. It’s best enjoyed warm, possibly with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of cream.

Notes

Fruit Variations

Feel free to mix and match different fruits based on your preference or seasonal availability.

Storage

Leftover crumble can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for a few days. It can also be reheated in the oven to restore its crispiness.

Serving Suggestions

This crumble pairs well with custard, cream, or ice cream for a delightful dessert experience.

Cook techniques

Preparing the fruit

When making a crumble, ensure that the fruit is well washed and chopped into even pieces for consistent cooking. Consider using a mix of fruits for a balanced flavor.

Making the crumble topping

For a crumbly texture, rub the butter into the flour with your fingertips until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. This technique helps achieve a light and fluffy topping.

Sweetening to taste

Adjust the sweetness of the crumble by adding sugar gradually. Taste as you go to find the right balance for your fruit choice.

Baking for the perfect texture

Bake the crumble until the topping is golden brown and the fruit is bubbling. This usually takes about 30 to 40 minutes, depending on your oven.

Serving suggestions

Serve the crumble warm, ideally with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of cream, to complement the warmth of the fruit and the crisp topping.

FAQ

Can I use frozen fruit for the crumble?

Yes, you can use frozen fruit. Just make sure to adjust the baking time slightly as frozen fruit may release more moisture.

How do I store leftover crumble?

Leftover crumble can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven to restore its crispness.

Can I make the crumble topping in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the crumble topping ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer until you’re ready to use it.

What other fruits can I use in a crumble?

You can use a variety of fruits like apples, pears, berries, or stone fruits. Mixing different fruits can enhance the flavor and texture.

Is there a gluten-free option for the crumble topping?

Yes, you can substitute regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make the crumble topping suitable for gluten-free diets.

Conclusion

The Christmas crumble is a delightful dessert that celebrates the festive season with its warm flavors and comforting textures. It’s a perfect way to use seasonal fruits and enjoy a sweet treat that brings joy to any holiday gathering. Combining various fruits allows for a rich tapestry of tastes, making it a versatile dish that can please any palate.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Apple and Cinnamon Crumble

Combine tart apples with a sprinkle of cinnamon for a classic crumble that evokes the essence of cozy winter evenings.

Mixed Berry Crumble

Utilize an assortment of berries, such as strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries, for a vibrant and tangy dessert that bursts with flavor.

Pear and Ginger Crumble

Elevate your crumble with sweet pears and the warmth of ginger, creating a delightful harmony between spice and sweetness.

Peach and Almond Crumble

Fusing juicy peaches with the nutty flavor of almonds offers a unique and delectable twist on traditional crumble recipes.

Spiced Plum and Oat Crumble

Incorporating plums with warming spices and oats gives an added texture and taste, perfect for an autumn-inspired treat.