Rhubarb and Apple Crumble: A Sweet and Tangy Dessert or Breakfast Treat

Rhubarb and Apple Crumble: A Sweet and Tangy Dessert or Breakfast Treat

Rhubarb and apple crumble is a classic recipe that’s as versatile as it is delicious. The tartness of rhubarb pairs beautifully with the sweetness of apples, all topped with a buttery, crumbly topping. Perfect as a dessert after a savoury dish like Jamie Oliver's ratatouille or as a warming breakfast, this crumble is a must-try.


Ingredients

Fruit Filling

  • 450g rhubarb, chopped into 1cm pieces
  • Juice of half a lemon
  • 120g dark brown sugar (or substitute with another sugar)
  • 300g apples (Bramley or another cooking variety)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract (or 1 vanilla pod)
  • 100g dark brown sugar (plus an extra 10g for layering)

Crumble Topping

  • 220g plain flour
  • 120g cold salted butter, chopped into small chunks
  • 100g demerara sugar (or caster sugar)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp ground ginger (optional, for added warmth)

Method

Step 1: Prepare the Rhubarb Filling

  1. Place the chopped rhubarb, sugar, and lemon juice in a saucepan.
  2. Cook on medium heat until the rhubarb softens and breaks down, stirring occasionally.
  3. Once softened, transfer the rhubarb mixture to a baking dish, filling about one-third of the dish.

Step 2: Make the Crumble Topping

  1. Combine the flour, sugar, salt, and ground ginger (if using) in a mixing bowl.
  2. Add the cold butter chunks and rub them into the dry ingredients using your fingers until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. A few small butter lumps are fine.

Step 3: Layer the Apples

  1. Slice the apples into small-medium pieces. Peel if preferred, or leave the skin on for added texture.
  2. Lay the apple slices over the rhubarb mixture.
  3. Drizzle lemon juice (or rub the squeezed lemon over the apples) to prevent browning.
  4. Sprinkle an extra layer of dark brown sugar over the apples for added sweetness.

Step 4: Add the Crumble and Bake

  1. Spread the crumble mixture evenly over the apple and rhubarb layers.
  2. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C for at least an hour, or until the topping turns golden brown.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the crumble warm with:

  • A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream
  • Rich custard
  • Whipped or pouring cream

Tips for Success

  • Adjust Sweetness: Add more sugar to the rhubarb if you prefer a sweeter filling.
  • Customise the Flavours: Add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the crumble for a seasonal twist.
  • Texture Tip: Leave some apple slices slightly chunky for added bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Versatile: Perfect as a dessert or a breakfast treat.
  • Comforting: A warm, satisfying dish for any season.
  • Simple to Make: Easy-to-find ingredients and straightforward steps.

Conclusion

This rhubarb and apple crumble is the ultimate comfort food, offering a balance of tart, sweet, and buttery flavours. Whether you enjoy it as a dessert or a breakfast dish, it’s guaranteed to impress family and friends. Pair with your favourite accompaniments like custard or ice cream, and enjoy the warmth and nostalgia this classic recipe brings.

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