Air-Fryer Crumble: Can You Make This Delicious Treat?

Air fryers are a convenient alternative to ovens for baking desserts like crumble. Using an air fryer to make crumble is quicker, easier, and healthier than traditional recipes, and the result is just as tasty. The air fryer delivers the satisfying crunch of the crumble topping, perfectly balanced with the warm, gooey embrace of seasonal fruits. You can make crumble in an air fryer with just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort.

What fruit can you use?

You can use a variety of fruits to make a crumble in an air fryer. Apples are a popular choice, with Bramley apples and Granny Smiths being recommended. Pears can also be used, either on their own or combined with apples.

For a more summery dessert, you could use peaches, nectarines, blackberries, raspberries, or strawberries. Dried fruit, such as berries, cherries, or sultanas, can also be added to the apple mixture for extra flavour.

How to make the crumble topping

The crumble topping is the star of any crumble recipe, and making it in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to achieve a delicious, golden-brown, crispy result. Here is a step-by-step guide to making the perfect crumble topping in your air fryer:

Ingredients:

• Flour (plain/all-purpose)
• Butter (cold, cubed, and unsalted)
• Sugar (caster, light brown, or regular granulated)
• Oats (optional, but recommended for extra crunch and health benefits)
• Cinnamon (optional, for extra spice and warmth)
• Salt (a pinch, optional)

Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients

Start by combining the flour, sugar, and oats (if using) in a mixing bowl. You can also add a pinch of cinnamon for extra spice and warmth. Mix these dry ingredients together until they are well combined.

Step 2: Add Butter

Next, add the cubed butter to the mixing bowl. Using your hands, gently rub the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse breadcrumbs or fine breadcrumbs. You can also use a fork or a pastry cutter to cut the butter into the flour, but clean hands will give you more control over the texture.

Step 3: Create Crumble Texture

Continue mixing and gently pressing the butter between your fingers until you achieve a crumble-like texture. You want the mixture to be crumbly with some small pieces of butter still visible. This will ensure a crispy, golden topping.

Step 4: Prepare for Air Frying

Once your crumble mixture is ready, remove the tray or basket from your air fryer. Place the mixture directly into the cooking area, spreading it out evenly.

Step 5: Air Fry the Topping

Depending on your air fryer model, set the temperature between 170°C to 180°C (338°F). Air fry the crumble topping for 5 minutes, then gently toss the mixture to prevent clumping. Continue air frying for another 5 to 10 minutes, keeping a close eye on it to avoid overcooking.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Remove the cooked crumble topping from the air fryer and let it cool until it is just warm or completely cool. You can now sprinkle this delicious, crispy topping over your favourite fruits and desserts!

Tips:

• Feel free to adjust the sugar and cinnamon to your taste preferences.
• You can make the crumble topping ahead of time and store it in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge until ready to use.
• If you don't have an air fryer, you can bake the crumble topping in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until golden and toasted.

Enjoy your air-fried crumble topping, and feel free to experiment with different fruits and dessert combinations!

Preparing the apples

If you're using Bramley apples, place them in the air fryer with 2 tablespoons of apple juice and cook for about 5 minutes before adding the crumble topping. Otherwise, simply add the chopped apples to your oven-proof dish, along with the apple juice and lemon juice, and give it a stir to coat the apples.

You can also add other ingredients to your apples to enhance the flavour. Consider adding 2 tablespoons of dried berries, cherries, or sultanas. A teaspoon of ground cinnamon will also add a warming spice to your crumble.

Once your apples are prepared, simply top them with your crumble mixture and cook in the air fryer for about 15 minutes, or until golden brown.

Baking the crumble

Now that you have your crumble mixture and apple base ready, it's time to bake your crumble in the air fryer!

First, preheat your air fryer to 180°C for 2 minutes. This is a crucial step to ensure even cooking. While the air fryer is heating up, you can assemble your crumble.

For the assembly, place a generous layer of your apple mixture in the base of your chosen tins or ramekins. Remember, if you prefer your apples on the sweeter side, you can sprinkle a little extra sugar over them. However, some people like the contrast of tart apples with a sweet topping.

Next, add a good layer of the crumble topping over the apples. This is where you can get creative and add some extra ingredients to your topping. For a classic crumble, simply use the flour, butter, and sugar mixture. However, if you want to experiment, you can include ingredients like cinnamon, oats, or even nuts for some added crunch.

Once your air fryer is preheated, carefully place the tins or ramekins inside. If you have an air fryer oven, you might be able to cook multiple ramekins at once. However, if you have a regular air fryer with a basket, you may need to cook in batches.

Set the air fryer to ""air fry mode"" and cook your crumble at 180°C for approximately 13 minutes. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on your air fryer model. For instance, the BBC Good Food recipe recommends cooking the apple base for 10-12 minutes and then the crumble for a further 10 minutes.

Keep an eye on your crumble as it cooks, and adjust the timing as needed. You're aiming for a golden brown colour and a crispy topping.

Once your crumble is cooked to perfection, remove it from the air fryer and let it cool slightly. This is an important step as it allows the crumble to set and for the flavours to meld. Serve your crumble while it's still warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, custard, or some freshly whipped cream.

And there you have it! A delicious, golden-brown apple crumble made right in your air fryer. This cooking method not only saves time and effort but also delivers a tasty and healthier treat. Enjoy the fruits of your labour (literally)!

Serving suggestions

Air fryer crumble is a quick, easy, and tasty dessert option. It can be served warm or cold, making it a versatile choice for any occasion. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your air fryer crumble:

Cream, Custard, or Ice Cream

A dollop of cold cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with the warm crumble. For an extra indulgent touch, consider serving it with a creamy custard. The cool, creamy textures contrast beautifully with the crispy crumble topping.

Fresh or Cooked Fruit

Air fryer crumble goes well with fresh fruit. Try tossing your favourite berries or diced fruits with a little sugar and topping them with the crumble. You can also serve it with cooked fruit, such as softened apples, for a more unified dish.

Chewy Texture

Add oats to your crumble mix to increase the fibre content and give it a delightful chewy texture. This not only makes the crumble healthier but also adds an interesting mouthfeel.

Cinnamon Spice

A hint of cinnamon enhances the warmth of the crumble. Consider sprinkling cinnamon over the fruit or adding it to the crumble topping for an extra layer of flavour. It pairs exceptionally well with apples.

Chocolate Sauce

For an indulgent twist, drizzle some chocolate or hot fudge sauce over the crumble. This combination creates a toffee apple crumble sensation that is sure to impress.

Berries

Top your crumble with a scattering of sharp raspberries and blackberries to elevate the dish. The tangy berries provide a delightful contrast to the sweet crumble, creating a well-rounded flavour profile.

Vegan Option

Make your air fryer crumble vegan by swapping butter with a vegan alternative, such as vegan butter or spread. This simple substitution allows everyone to enjoy this delicious dessert.

Frequently asked questions