The perfect dessert for March - the great British Apple Crumble. A time when the weather shows signs of warming up, yet there is still a deceptive chill in the air, nothing beats a warm Apple Crumble straight from the oven or microwave with lashings of custard or cream on top.

A dessert mostly prepared with stewed apples, topped with an oatie crumble, for many, it’s a delicious, sweet treat that reminds us of the past and a ‘must have’ staple dessert after every Sunday lunch with family and friends.

But where does this delicious classic come from?

Apple Crumble is known to have originated in Britain during the World War II food rationing. Recipes for the dish were invented to replace the more extravagant apple pie recipes. However, it was not until 1924 that the apple crumble became an official recipe when it made it’s first debut into printed recipe books.[1]

Over the years, the apple crumble has gained in popularity and today, a number of variations of the classic recipe are enjoyed across the UK and beyond. Variations include; Apple Crumble with or without Custard, Apple and Raspberry Crumble, Blackberry and Apple Crumble, the list goes on….

Whether it’s for warmth throughout the colder months, comfort, or a delicious dish to satisfy your sweet tooth, Apple crumble is a classic favourite that never fails to mark the perfect end to a lovely meal. At Oakhouse Foods we offer a number of delicious variations of the infamous Apple Crumble dish, including our new Apple and Pear Crumble arriving just in time for Easter, along with our Apple, Raspberry and Cranberry Crumble, which has been a great hit with our regular customers since launching in January.

For more information about our delicious meals and desserts, delivered straight to your door, please visit our website www.oakhousefooods.co.uk

Why Apple Crumble Remains a British Favourite

Although apple crumble first became popular during wartime Britain, its appeal has never faded. Today, it remains one of the nation's favourite desserts thanks to its simple ingredients, comforting flavours and versatility.

Apple crumble is equally at home as a cosy winter pudding or a delicious dessert after a Sunday roast. It's easy to customise with seasonal fruit and can be served with custard, cream or ice cream depending on personal preference.

Whether homemade or ready prepared, apple crumble continues to be enjoyed by families across the UK.

The Best Apples for Apple Crumble

Choosing the right apples can make all the difference to a delicious crumble.

Many traditional recipes use Bramley apples because they soften beautifully during cooking while keeping their distinctive sharp flavour. Their tartness balances the sweetness of the crumble topping perfectly.

Some people also enjoy mixing Bramley apples with sweeter dessert apples to create a filling that's both fruity and full of flavour.

Serving Suggestions

Apple crumble is wonderfully versatile and can be enjoyed in several different ways.

Popular accompaniments include:

  • Hot custard
  • Vanilla ice cream
  • Double cream
  • Clotted cream
  • Greek yoghurt for a lighter option

Whether enjoyed as an everyday treat or served after a family meal, it's a dessert that rarely goes out of fashion.

Enjoy Traditional Desserts Without the Preparation

If you love traditional British puddings but are unable to bake from scratch, there are plenty of convenient alternatives.

Oakhouse Foods offers a delicious range of classic frozen ready meal desserts inspired by Britain's best-loved recipes, making it easy to enjoy comforting favourites whenever you fancy them. From fruit crumbles to traditional puddings, every dessert is prepared with quality ingredients and delivered straight to your door.

Browse our range of traditional desserts to discover more comforting favourites.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is apple crumble British?

Yes. Apple crumble is widely recognised as a British dessert and became especially popular during the Second World War when rationing made traditional pastry more difficult to prepare.

What apples are best for apple crumble?

Bramley apples are the traditional choice because their sharp flavour balances the sweetness of the crumble topping.

What's the difference between apple crumble and apple pie?

Apple pie uses pastry, while apple crumble has a buttery topping made from flour, butter and sugar.

[1] https://ifood.tv/european/apple-crumble/about