Mary Berry’s Blackberry and Apple Crumble is a quintessentially British dessert that blends the tartness of blackberries with the sweet, comforting flavor of apples. Known for her elegant yet easy-to-follow recipes, Mary Berry has perfected this dish to be both indulgent and accessible to all levels of home bakers. The blackberry and apple crumble is a true crowd-pleaser, making it a staple of family gatherings, dinner parties, and seasonal celebrations.
The crumble topping, which is a beautiful contrast to the soft, stewed fruit beneath, is crisp, buttery, and slightly crumbly – a texture that has earned this dessert a permanent place in British kitchens. What sets Mary Berry’s version apart is her attention to balance in both flavor and texture. The combination of sweet apples with the slight tang of blackberries, topped with a crunchy, golden crumble, is something many find irresistible. The best part? It’s incredibly simple to make, with ingredients you’re likely to have on hand.
Mary Berry’s Blackberry And Apple Crumble Recipe
Ingredients Needed
To make this delicious Blackberry and Apple Crumble, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For The Fruit Filling
- 500g Bramley apples (or another tart variety, like Granny Smith)
- 300g blackberries (fresh or frozen)
- 100g caster sugar (adjust based on the sweetness of your fruit)
- 2 tablespoons of water (to help soften the fruit while cooking)
- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice (for added zing and to help balance the sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, but adds a lovely warm flavor)
For The Crumble Topping
- 200g plain flour
- 100g cold butter, cut into cubes (unsalted is ideal)
- 100g caster sugar (or light brown sugar for a deeper caramel flavor)
- 50g rolled oats (optional, but these add extra texture and flavor)
The key to the perfect crumble lies in the quality of the apples and the balance of sweetness and acidity from the fruit. Bramley apples, which are widely available in the UK, are perfect for this recipe due to their tartness and their ability to soften without turning to mush. Blackberries bring a burst of color and flavor, complementing the apples beautifully.
Equipment Needed
Before you start baking, here’s a list of equipment that will make your crumble-making process smooth and enjoyable:
- Oven: Preheat to 180°C (160°C for fan ovens), or 350°F. The oven is essential for both cooking the fruit and crisping the crumble topping to golden perfection.
- Baking dish: A 23cm (9-inch) round or square dish is ideal for this recipe. You can also use individual ramekins for individual servings.
- Sharp knife: For peeling and slicing the apples with ease.
- Mixing bowls: One for the fruit filling and one for the crumble topping.
- Pastry cutter or food processor: This helps incorporate the butter into the dry ingredients to form the crumble. If you prefer, you can also do this by hand.
- Wooden spoon: For stirring the fruit mixture, though you could use a silicone spatula too.
- Sieve: Optional, but a fine sieve can help evenly distribute sugar or flour, should you need to do that.
Instructions To Make Mary Berry’s Blackberry And Apple Crumble
Now, let’s walk through the steps to create this wonderful dessert:
1. Prepare The Fruit Filling
Start by peeling and coring your apples. Then, slice them into thick chunks, so they maintain some texture during cooking. In a saucepan, combine the apple chunks, blackberries, sugar, lemon juice, and water. Cook on a medium heat for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the fruit has softened but still holds its shape. You’ll notice that the blackberries will start to release their juices, creating a lovely sauce around the apples. Once done, transfer this mixture to your baking dish and set aside.
2. Make The Crumble Topping
In a separate bowl, add the flour and sugar. Cut the cold butter into cubes and rub it into the flour mixture with your fingertips. Keep rubbing until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs or small pebbles. This step is vital for achieving the perfect crumble texture. If you prefer, you can use a pastry cutter or food processor to speed up this process. Once the crumble mixture is ready, stir in the rolled oats (if using) for extra crunch.
3. Assemble And Bake
Evenly scatter the crumble topping over the fruit filling, making sure the fruit is well covered. Don’t press down too firmly – the crumble should stay light and crumbly. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the fruit filling is bubbling. Keep an eye on it toward the end of cooking to avoid over-browning.
4. Serve
Once baked, allow the crumble to cool for a few minutes before serving. It’s delicious on its own or can be paired with a dollop of double cream, vanilla ice cream, or custard for an extra indulgent treat.
Tips And Tricks
- Fruits and Substitutes: While blackberries and apples are a winning combination, feel free to experiment with other seasonal fruits. Pears, rhubarb, or plums can work wonderfully too. Just remember to adjust the sugar levels depending on the tartness of your fruit.
- Oats in the Crumble: If you like a more textured, crunchy topping, add rolled oats to the crumble mixture. The oats not only enhance the texture but also give the crumble a heartier feel.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the fruit filling and the crumble topping separately a day ahead and store them in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, simply assemble the dish and cook as usual.
- Freezing: This crumble is an excellent dish for freezing. After assembling the crumble but before baking, cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil and freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, bake it directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
- Alternative Sweeteners: If you’re looking to reduce refined sugar, try substituting with honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar. Keep in mind that these may slightly alter the flavor, but the result will still be delicious.
Mary Berry’s Blackberry and Apple Crumble is a beloved classic that perfectly captures the essence of comfort food. The juicy blackberries and soft apples are a delightful base for the golden, buttery crumble topping that’s just the right mix of crispy and crumbly. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this dish is perfect for any occasion – whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a special dessert for guests.
Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Blackberry And Apple Crumble
Mary Berry’s Blackberry and Apple Crumble is a classic dessert that’s beloved for its simplicity, comfort, and versatility. While the traditional recipe already creates a wonderfully balanced dessert with tart blackberries, sweet apples, and a buttery crumble topping, there are plenty of fun and easy variations you can try to put your own spin on this classic. Here are a few:
1. Swap The Fruit
One of the easiest ways to personalize your crumble is to switch up the fruits. While blackberries and apples make a perfect pair, you can experiment with other fruits based on what’s in season or your personal preference. Try these combinations:
- Pear and Raspberry: A sweet and tart mix with delicate pear and vibrant raspberries.
- Peach and Plum: Juicy peaches paired with slightly tangy plums for a late-summer vibe.
- Mixed Berries: If you want to stick to a berry theme, a combination of strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries can be fantastic.
You can even add a handful of frozen fruit for convenience if you’re not using fresh.
2. Incorporate Nuts Into The Crumble Topping
Give your crumble a crunchier texture and a bit of depth by adding chopped nuts to the crumble topping. Walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts are great choices and work especially well with the fruity base. Simply fold them into your crumble mixture before spreading it over the fruit. The nuts will toast slightly in the oven, adding an extra layer of flavor.
3. Use Oats For A Healthier Twist
If you’re looking for a more wholesome version, oats are a fantastic substitute for some of the flour in the topping. Oats create a chewy, slightly chewy texture and add fiber to the crumble, making it a perfect option for breakfast or a guilt-free dessert. For an even healthier variation, try adding a little honey or maple syrup to the topping for extra sweetness without the refined sugar.
4. Add Spices
While Mary Berry’s version keeps it simple with a sprinkle of cinnamon, you can experiment with other spices for added warmth. Nutmeg, cloves, or even ginger can be used in the fruit filling to give it a spiced depth that pairs beautifully with the apples and blackberries.
5. Go Gluten-Free
For those with gluten sensitivities, it’s easy to make this dessert gluten-free. Simply swap the regular flour for a gluten-free flour blend and make sure your oats are certified gluten-free. You could also use ground almonds or coconut flour as a substitute for traditional flour for a nutty, grain-free topping.
6. Add A Little Citrus Zest
A little citrus zest, such as orange or lemon, can brighten up the fruit filling, cutting through the sweetness and adding a refreshing note. A teaspoon of zest mixed into the fruit before baking can take this dessert to the next level.
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftover Mary Berry’s Blackberry and Apple Crumble (a rare but wonderful scenario!), storing it properly is key to keeping it fresh and delicious.
Room Temperature Storage
If you’re planning to eat the leftovers within a day or two, you can store the crumble at room temperature. Simply cover it loosely with foil or plastic wrap, and it’ll stay perfectly fine for a day. Just remember that the crumble topping may lose a little of its crispness over time, but it should still taste great.
Refrigeration
For longer storage, it’s best to refrigerate your crumble. Place the leftovers in an airtight container or wrap the crumble tightly with plastic wrap, ensuring that no air can get in. Refrigerated, the crumble will last for about 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it, you can either eat it cold (though it’s better warm!) or reheat it.
Freezing
If you want to make a batch in advance or preserve leftovers for a future treat, freezing is a fantastic option. You can freeze both the assembled crumble (before baking) or the baked crumble:
- Before Baking: Assemble the crumble as usual, then wrap it tightly in foil or place it in a freezer-safe dish. It can stay in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, no need to thaw-just bake it straight from frozen, but expect to add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
- After Baking: To freeze baked crumble, let it cool completely first. Then wrap it tightly in foil or place it in an airtight container. It can last for up to 3 months in the freezer. Reheat it in the oven for the best texture, or microwave it if you’re in a hurry.
What To Eat With Mary Berry’s Blackberry And Apple Crumble?
While Mary Berry’s Blackberry and Apple Crumble is delicious on its own, there are plenty of wonderful accompaniments that can take it to the next level. Depending on your taste, here are some options:
1. Vanilla Custard
You can’t go wrong with a classic accompaniment like smooth, velvety vanilla custard. The warm custard pairs perfectly with the hot crumble, creating a comforting, indulgent dessert experience. You can make custard from scratch using eggs, sugar, and milk or use a ready-made option for convenience.
2. Whipped Cream
Light, fluffy whipped cream is another perfect pairing. The cool, creamy texture contrasts beautifully with the warm, fruity filling and crisp topping. If you want to elevate it, try adding a hint of vanilla extract or a splash of bourbon for a sophisticated twist.
3. Ice Cream
For a more indulgent treat, serve your crumble with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or something a little more exotic, like cinnamon or caramel ice cream. The cold, creamy ice cream melting over the warm crumble creates an irresistible contrast.
4. Greek Yogurt
If you’re looking for a slightly healthier or tangy alternative to cream, Greek yogurt is a great option. Its richness and slight tartness balance the sweetness of the crumble, adding a little lightness to the dish.
5. Cheese
A slice of sharp cheddar cheese alongside your crumble might sound unusual, but it’s actually a surprisingly good combination. The saltiness of the cheese complements the sweetness of the crumble, creating a sweet-and-salty balance that is often found in traditional British desserts.
Conclusion
Mary Berry’s Blackberry and Apple Crumble is a quintessential British dessert that has stood the test of time for a reason: it’s simple, comforting, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with different variations-like using other fruits, adding spices, or making it gluten-free-this crumble is guaranteed to please any crowd. The ability to store leftovers for later enjoyment or freeze them for future use makes this dessert a convenient choice for both casual family dinners and special occasions.
Pair it with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of ice cream, or a drizzle of custard, and you have a dessert that’s sure to satisfy any craving. And don’t forget the storage tips for keeping your leftovers fresh and tasty. Whether you’re serving it at a dinner party or enjoying a quiet afternoon at home, this delightful crumble is bound to be a hit every time.
FAQs
What Makes Mary Berry’s Blackberry And Apple Crumble Unique?
Mary Berry’s Blackberry and Apple Crumble stands out due to its perfect balance of tart blackberries and sweet, tender apples. The recipe uses a buttery, slightly crisp topping that complements the soft, baked fruit beneath it. Mary’s addition of oats in the crumble topping gives it a delightful texture and extra richness, making it a comforting, delicious dessert suitable for all occasions.
Can I Make Mary Berry’s Blackberry And Apple Crumble In Advance?
Yes, you can prepare Mary Berry’s Blackberry and Apple Crumble in advance. To do so, assemble the crumble and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, you can prepare and bake it ahead of time, then store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, reheat it in the oven at a low temperature to keep the crumble topping crisp.
Can I Use Frozen Blackberries For Mary Berry’s Blackberry And Apple Crumble Recipe?
Yes, frozen blackberries can be used in Mary Berry’s Blackberry and Apple Crumble. If using frozen blackberries, there’s no need to defrost them beforehand. Just add them directly to the filling mixture. Keep in mind that frozen fruit may release more juice while baking, so you might need to adjust the cooking time slightly or use a thickener like cornstarch to prevent the crumble from becoming too soggy.
