As I walked through the local market, the vibrant colors of fall produce captured my attention—the crisp apples and bright cranberries practically begged to be transformed into something magical. That’s when the idea for this Spiced Cranberry Apple Crumble with Pecan Topping sparked to life! You’ll love how effortlessly this cozy dessert comes together; it only takes 15 minutes to prep and fills your kitchen with the warm, inviting scents of cinnamon and nutmeg. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser, perfect for everything from casual weeknight dinners to festive gatherings. Gather your friends and family around, because there’s nothing quite like serving up a warm, bubbling crumble topped with a crunchy pecan layer! Who’s ready to dig in?
Why is this Cranberry Apple Crumble special?
Comforting warmth: This Spiced Cranberry Apple Crumble wraps you in flavors of cinnamon and nutmeg, making it perfect for chilly evenings.
Quick and easy: With just 15 minutes of prep, you can spend more time entertaining and less time in the kitchen.
Customizable goodness: You can swap cranberries for other fruits or adjust the spices to fit your family’s taste preferences!
Gluten-free options: Enjoy a cozy dessert that can accommodate various dietary needs, ensuring everyone at your table can indulge.
Crowd favorite: Whether topped with ice cream or served alone, its delightful texture and rich flavor are simply irresistible—perfect for gatherings or family dinners!
For more delicious ideas that embrace seasonal flavors, check out my Delightful Mini Pineapple treat or try a comforting bowl of Tomato Gnocchi Burrata for your next cozy night in!
Cranberry Apple Crumble With Pecan Ingredients
• Get ready to whip up a cozy dessert!
For the Fruit Filling
- Cranberries – The star of this dish, bringing tartness that balances the sweetness of apples; feel free to substitute with tart cherries for a twist.
- Apples – Use a mix of sweet and tart varieties for added depth; Honeycrisp or Granny Smith work wonderfully together.
- Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and moisture; coconut sugar can be a great alternative if you’re watching your glycemic index.
- Cinnamon – Warms up the flavors; don’t hesitate to sprinkle a bit more if you love that spice.
For the Crumble Topping
- Pecans – Provide a crunchy topping and richness; walnuts can be swapped in for a different nutty flavor or leave them out for a nut-free option.
- Oats – They give structure to the crumble topping; opt for gluten-free oats if needed.
- Butter (or vegan alternative) – Adds richness to the crumble; coconut oil works well for a dairy-free option.
- Nutmeg – Enhances the warm flavors; allspice is another great addition if you’re feeling adventurous!
Gather these ingredients, and you’ll be well on your way to creating a delightful Cranberry Apple Crumble with Pecan that everyone will savor!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cranberry Apple Crumble With Pecan
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for your delicious Cranberry Apple Crumble. This initial step is crucial as it allows the crumble to bake evenly and achieve that golden-brown topping everyone loves. While the oven warms up, gather your ingredients to streamline the cooking process.
Step 2: Prepare the Fruit Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the fresh cranberries and sliced apples, making sure to mix them well. Sprinkle in brown sugar, cinnamon, and a touch of nutmeg, ensuring every piece of fruit is well-coated. This step infuses the fruits with flavor, and you’ll know it’s ready when the apples start to glisten with the sugar and spices.
Step 3: Make the Crumble Topping
In a separate bowl, mix your oats, flour, brown sugar, and a pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg for added warmth. Cut in cold butter (or your vegan alternative) until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Fold in the chopped pecans for that delightful crunch. The crumble should feel like a sandy mixture that clumps together yet remains crumbly when you pinch it.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
Spread the prepared fruit mixture evenly into a greased baking dish, ensuring the fruits are well-distributed for even cooking. Then, take your crumble topping and sprinkle it generously over the fruit layer. This creates a comforting blanket of goodness that will bake beautifully and trap the juices below.
Step 5: Bake the Crumble
Carefully place the assembled dish in your preheated oven, setting your timer for 30 to 35 minutes. The bake is complete when the topping is golden brown, and you can see the fruit juices bubbling around the edges. The enticing aroma of cranberries and spices will fill your kitchen, signaling that something wonderful is happening.
Step 6: Serve the Delight
Once baked, remove the Cranberry Apple Crumble from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. This waiting time allows the juices to settle. Serve it warm, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, enhancing the cozy fall experience with each delightful bite.
Make Ahead Options
These Spiced Cranberry Apple Crumble with Pecan Topping components are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the fruit filling and crumble topping up to 24 hours in advance; simply store the filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and prevent browning. For the crumble topping, keep it in the fridge as well. When you’re ready to serve, just spread the fruit mixture in your baking dish, add the crumble topping, and pop it in the oven for about 30-35 minutes. This way, you’ll achieve that warm, bubbling perfection without the last-minute rush, enjoying a cozy dessert effortlessly!
What to Serve with Spiced Cranberry Apple Crumble with Pecan
Savor the warm, inviting flavors of this delightful crumble complemented by the perfect pairings that elevate your dessert experience.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing, the creamy ice cream melts into the warm crumble, creating a delicious contrast in temperature and texture.
- Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, it adds a delightful richness that complements the tart fruits without overwhelming their natural flavors.
- Warm Apple Cider: This spiced drink echoes the warmth of the crumble, creating a cozy atmosphere perfect for chilly evenings around the table.
- Cinnamon-Infused Coffee: A fragrant brew with a hint of spice that pairs beautifully with the warmth of the crumble, enhancing the overall experience.
- Chocolate Sauce drizzle: Rich and indulgent, a drizzle of chocolate adds a touch of sweetness that balances the tartness of cranberries and apples.
- Caramel Sauce: The gooey sweetness of caramel works wonders, creating a luscious layer of flavor that delights with every bite.
- Pear Slices: Fresh pear slices provide a crisp, juicy contrast to the crumble, bringing in another layer of seasonal fruit goodness.
- Spiced Rum: For a festive touch, a glass of spiced rum offers warmth and complexity, enhancing a cozy night spent enjoying dessert.
- Ginger Snap Cookies: These crispy cookies add a delightful crunch and a hint of spice that complements the crumble’s cozy flavors.
- Chai Tea: A steaming cup of chai tea, infused with spices, enriches the experience with its aromatic and comforting properties, making for a truly inviting way to end a meal.
Expert Tips for Cranberry Apple Crumble
- Fruit Prep: Ensure the cranberries and apples are well-coated in sugar and spices before baking for balanced flavor throughout the crumble.
- Texture Matters: Don’t overmanage the crumble topping—mix just until crumbly. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture instead of a light, crispy topping.
- Spice Adjustments: Feel free to experiment with your spice ratios; a little extra cinnamon or nutmeg can elevate this Cranberry Apple Crumble to new heights.
- Nut Alternatives: If anyone at your gathering has nut allergies, omit the pecans or substitute with seeds like pumpkin for a crunchy topping without the nuts.
- Serve Fresh: This crumble is best enjoyed fresh from the oven, but if you have leftovers, store in an airtight container to maintain its deliciousness for up to 3-5 days.
Cranberry Apple Crumble With Pecan Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful tweaks to make the recipe uniquely yours!
- Tart Cherries: Swap cranberries for tart cherries for an equally scrumptious flavor experience.
- Peachy Keen: Replace apples and cranberries with peaches for a deliciously summery take. Just imagine the sweet aroma wafting through the kitchen!
- Pineapple Delight: Add crushed pineapple to the fruit filling for an intriguing tropical twist that brightens the dish.
- Oats Variety: Mix in some almond flour with oats for a different texture and added nutty flavor.
- Dried Fruit Boost: Incorporate raisins or dried cranberries into the filling for a touch of extra sweetness and chewy texture.
- Coconut Crumble: Stir shredded coconut into the crumble topping for an exotic flair that complements the fruits beautifully.
- Spicy Warmth: Increase cinnamon and nutmeg or add ginger to the filling for an invigorating spiced experience.
- Nut-Free Option: Simply omit the pecans or swap in sunflowers seeds for crunch without the nuts—perfect for allergy-friendly gatherings!
For more cozy recipes, consider trying my lovely Sizzling Chinese Pepper or a comforting bowl of Garlic Butter Steak Bites.
How to Store and Freeze Cranberry Apple Crumble With Pecan
Fridge: Store any leftover Cranberry Apple Crumble in an airtight container for up to 3-5 days, ensuring it remains fresh and delicious.
Freezer: You can freeze the crumble for up to 2 months. Cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw the crumble overnight in the fridge. Warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
Serving Fresh: For optimal taste and texture, enjoy your crumble fresh from the oven, but it still makes a delightful treat even when stored!
Cranberry Apple Crumble With Pecan Recipe FAQs
What type of apples work best for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best balance of sweetness and tartness, use a mix of sweet and tart apples. Honeycrisp and Granny Smith are my personal favorites—they provide a delightful contrast in flavors and textures!
How should I store leftovers from the Cranberry Apple Crumble?
To keep your leftovers fresh, store any remaining crumble in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-5 days. This will maintain its delicious flavors and make sure it’s ready for a cozy snack whenever the craving strikes!
Can I freeze the Cranberry Apple Crumble?
Yes, you can! To freeze the crumble, allow it to cool completely after baking. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes.
What if my filling is too runny?
If you find that your fruit filling is too runny before baking, sprinkle in a little cornstarch (about 1 tablespoon) to help thicken the juices. Mix it in gently to avoid bruising the fruit. This will absorb excess liquid and prevent your crumble from becoming soggy.
Are there any dietary considerations for pets or allergies?
Sure! If anyone has nut allergies at your gathering, you can easily omit the pecans or replace them with seeds for the topping. Also, always keep in mind that cranberries are safe for most pets in small amounts; however, it’s best to avoid sharing leftovers with them due to potential mixed ingredients like sugar.
Can I make this crumble vegan?
Very much so! For a vegan version of the Cranberry Apple Crumble, just replace the regular butter with coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative. You can also substitute the brown sugar with coconut sugar if desired. This way, everyone can enjoy this delightful treat!
Cranberry Apple Crumble With Pecan: Cozy Fall Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cranberries and sliced apples, and mix well. Sprinkle in brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- In another bowl, mix oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Cut in cold butter until crumbly, then fold in pecans.
- Spread the fruit mixture into a greased baking dish, then top with crumble mixture evenly.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until the topping is golden brown and juices are bubbling.
- Let it cool for 10 minutes before serving warm, optionally with ice cream or whipped cream.
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