Hairy Bikers’ Plum Crumble Recipe

Hairy Bikers’ Plum Crumble is a delightful twist on the classic British dessert. Created by the popular TV chefs known as the Hairy Bikers, this dish combines sweet, ripe plums with a buttery, crumbly topping.

The Hairy Bikers are famous for their accessible yet delicious recipes that bring joy to the table, and this plum crumble is no exception. The plums provide a tangy contrast to the sweet, caramelized sugar and spice of the crumble topping, making it a perfect dessert for the autumn and winter months when plums are in season.

What sets the Hairy Bikers’ version apart is their approach to simplicity without sacrificing flavor. Their plum crumble recipe focuses on the natural sweetness of the fruit, enhancing it with a little sugar and a few spices for added warmth.

The topping, made from flour, butter, and sugar, achieves the perfect balance of crispiness and melt-in-your-mouth tenderness. This recipe is also highly customizable, allowing you to experiment with different fruits or additional ingredients such as nuts for added texture.

Hairy Bikers’ Plum Crumble Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To make Hairy Bikers’ Plum Crumble, you will need the following ingredients:

For The Filling

• Fresh plums: About 700g (roughly 5-6 plums), pitted and sliced into quarters. The plums should be ripe but firm to maintain their shape while baking.
• Caster sugar: 50g to sweeten the plums and help create a syrup as they bake.
• Ground cinnamon: ½ teaspoon to add a warm, aromatic spice to the filling.
• Lemon zest: From 1 lemon, to add a touch of zestiness and brightness that cuts through the sweetness of the plums.

For The Crumble Topping

• Plain flour: 200g, which will form the base of the crumble mixture.
• Butter: 100g (cold, diced), which will be rubbed into the flour to create a crumbly texture.
• Caster sugar: 75g, to add sweetness to the topping.
• Ground almonds: 50g, optional but highly recommended for extra richness and a slight nuttiness in the crumble.

Optional

• Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla extract can be added to the crumble mixture for added flavor.
• Nuts: You can add a handful of chopped almonds or hazelnuts to the crumble for extra crunch and depth of flavor.

Equipment Needed

To make the Hairy Bikers’ Plum Crumble, you will need the following equipment:

• Oven: Preheated to 180°C (160°C fan) or 350°F.
• Mixing bowls: For combining the fruit filling and the crumble topping.
• Pie dish or baking dish: A medium-sized dish, about 20cm in diameter, will work well for this recipe. It should be deep enough to hold the fruit and crumble.
• Pastry cutter or fingers: To rub the butter into the flour and create the crumble texture.
• Sharp knife: For slicing the plums and zesting the lemon.
• Measuring spoons: For accurate measurements of the spices and sugar.

Step-by-Step Guide To Make Hairy Bikers’ Plum Crumble

Step 1: Prepare The Fruit Filling

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan) or 350°F.
2. Wash the plums thoroughly, cut them in half, remove the pits, and slice them into quarters.
3. Place the sliced plums into a mixing bowl. Add the caster sugar, ground cinnamon, and lemon zest, and toss everything together gently until the plums are evenly coated.
4. Transfer the plum mixture into your pie or baking dish, spreading the fruit out evenly.

Step 2: Make The Crumble Topping

1. In a separate bowl, add the plain flour, caster sugar, and ground almonds (if using).
2. Cut the cold butter into small cubes and add it to the flour mixture.
3. Using your fingers or a pastry cutter, rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. The texture should be rough and crumbly.
4. If you like, stir in the chopped nuts or a splash of vanilla extract at this stage for extra flavor.

Step 3: Assemble The Crumble

1. Evenly sprinkle the crumble topping over the plums in the baking dish, covering the fruit completely.
2. Use the back of a spoon to gently press down on the topping to ensure it’s compact and will crisp up nicely during baking.

Step 4: Bake The Crumble

1. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the crumble topping is golden brown and crisp, and the fruit is bubbling through at the edges.
2. Keep an eye on the crumble towards the end of the cooking time to ensure it doesn’t burn. You can also cover it loosely with foil if the topping is browning too quickly.

Step 5: Serve

1. Allow the crumble to cool for a few minutes before serving, as it will be very hot straight from the oven.
2. Serve warm with a dollop of thick cream, custard, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a truly indulgent treat.

Mastering The Recipe: Tips And Tricks

• Use ripe but firm plums: Overripe plums can become too mushy during baking, so aim for plums that are slightly firm but still sweet.
• Add a pinch of salt: A tiny pinch of salt in the crumble topping helps to enhance the sweetness and balance the flavors.
• Experiment with different fruits: While plums are delicious, you can substitute them with other stone fruits like cherries, peaches, or apricots, or mix them with berries for a tangy twist.
• Make ahead: The crumble can be assembled the day before and stored in the fridge. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve. It can also be frozen before baking and cooked directly from frozen, although you’ll need to extend the cooking time by about 10-15 minutes.
• Texture variation: If you like a crunchier topping, you can use rolled oats in the crumble mixture. They add a wonderful texture and additional flavor.

Hairy Bikers’ Plum Crumble is a classic, easy-to-make dessert that is bursting with flavors of sweet, tangy plums and a buttery, crumbly topping. Whether you make it for a weeknight dessert or a special occasion, it’s sure to please everyone at the table.

With simple ingredients, minimal effort, and endless variations, this recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves a comforting, homemade dessert. Experiment with the fruit and spices to make it your own, and enjoy a slice with cream or ice cream for a perfect end to any meal.

Simple Twists On Hairy Bikers’ Plum Crumble Recipe

The Hairy Bikers’ Plum Crumble recipe is already a delightful combination of sweet, tart, and crumbly goodness. However, if you’re looking to give it a fun twist or simply adjust it to suit personal preferences, there are plenty of variations you can try. These twists keep the essence of the classic dish while adding something extra to surprise your taste buds.

1. Spiced Plum Crumble: To elevate the flavor profile, consider adding a touch of cinnamon, ginger, or even a pinch of nutmeg to the plums before baking. The warm spices complement the natural sweetness of the plums and add depth to the dish. You could also mix in some cloves or allspice for a more aromatic, festive feel.
2. Almond Topping: For a slightly nutty variation, replace part of the flour in the crumble topping with ground almonds or almond flour. This gives the crumble a lovely texture and a faint almond flavor that pairs beautifully with the plums.
3. Crumble with Oats: If you prefer a more rustic, hearty topping, try adding oats to the crumble mix. The oats will bring a chewy, golden crunch that contrasts nicely with the soft, juicy plums. You could use a combination of oats, flour, butter, and sugar to create a balanced, hearty topping.
4. Lemon Zest in the Filling: A small amount of lemon zest mixed into the plum filling can enhance the fruity taste, adding a burst of citrus brightness that cuts through the sweetness of the plums. It will bring a fresh, zingy twist to the otherwise rich dessert.
5. Bourbon or Brandy Soak: Soaking the plums in a splash of bourbon or brandy before baking can add a grown-up, indulgent note. The alcohol adds complexity, and it pairs particularly well if you’re using slightly tart plums. Just be sure to let the alcohol cook off during baking, leaving behind only the deep flavors.
6. Coconut and Lime Crumble: For a tropical variation, try adding shredded coconut to the crumble mixture. You could even swap the sugar for a little honey to balance out the flavors, and finish with a touch of lime zest. This will give the dish an exotic flair that brings a sense of summer to the dessert.
7. Gluten-Free Crumble: If you’re avoiding gluten, you can easily make a gluten-free version of the Hairy Bikers’ Plum Crumble by using gluten-free flour and a gluten-free oat topping. Simply substitute the regular flour for a gluten-free blend, and you’re good to go without sacrificing any of the delicious crumble texture.
8. Berry Mix with Plums: While plums are the star, feel free to mix in other fruits for extra flavor. Blackberries, raspberries, or strawberries work well with plums, creating a more complex and colorful filling. The berries will bring in some additional tartness and sweetness, making for a wonderfully varied crumble.

These twists on the Hairy Bikers’ Plum Crumble recipe offer easy ways to make the dessert your own while keeping the soul of the original. Whether you want something spicier, more tropical, or heartier, you can adapt the recipe to suit the occasion or your taste buds!

How To Properly Store Leftovers

Leftovers from a plum crumble are as comforting the second time around as they are when freshly baked. To ensure they stay just as delicious, it’s important to store them properly.

1. Cooling: Allow the plum crumble to cool completely to room temperature before storing it. This prevents condensation from forming inside the storage container, which can make the topping soggy.
2. Storage in the Fridge: If you plan on keeping leftovers for up to 3-4 days, storing them in the refrigerator is your best option. Use an airtight container to keep the crumble fresh. If you prefer to keep it in the baking dish, simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This method keeps the dessert chilled and maintains its flavor for several days.
3. Freezing: Plum crumble can be frozen for up to 3 months. To do this, make sure the crumble is completely cooled. Then, cover it tightly with a layer of plastic wrap and a layer of foil or place it in an airtight freezer-safe container. Freezing the crumble in individual servings can be a great option if you want a quick dessert later on. When ready to eat, simply defrost overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven for about 10-15 minutes to restore that fresh-baked texture.
4. Reheating: When reheating your leftover plum crumble, whether from the fridge or freezer, the oven is the best option to preserve the texture of the topping. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and bake the crumble for about 10-15 minutes. If reheating from frozen, ensure it’s fully thawed in the fridge before baking for an even result.
5. Microwave Option: If you’re in a hurry, you can microwave individual servings of leftover plum crumble. Place a portion in a microwave-safe bowl, cover it loosely with a microwave-safe lid, and heat it on medium power in 30-second increments until warmed through. While this method is faster, it won’t give you the same crisp topping as oven reheating.

Properly storing and reheating your leftover plum crumble ensures that you can enjoy it days later without compromising its flavor or texture. With these simple tips, you won’t have to worry about your crumble going to waste.

What To Eat With Hairy Bikers’ Plum Crumble?

The Hairy Bikers’ Plum Crumble is a stand-alone dessert, but pairing it with certain sides or accompaniments can elevate the experience. Whether you’re serving it as part of a larger meal or simply want to enjoy it in different ways, here are some suggestions on what to eat alongside your plum crumble.

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing, vanilla ice cream complements the rich, fruity crumble perfectly. The creamy, cold ice cream contrasts nicely with the warm, slightly tart plums and crumbly topping. The mild sweetness of vanilla balances the flavors, providing a cool and smooth texture.
2. Whipped Cream: If you’re looking for something lighter than ice cream, freshly whipped cream is an excellent choice. It’s airy and slightly sweet, and it won’t overpower the plum crumble. You can also add a dash of vanilla extract or a sprinkle of cinnamon to the whipped cream for an added layer of flavor.
3. Custard: For a more indulgent option, custard is a fantastic choice to serve with plum crumble. The creamy texture of custard combined with the fruitiness of the plums creates a luxurious pairing. You can either go with a traditional English custard or a more decadent crème anglaise.
4. Greek Yogurt: For a healthier alternative, a dollop of thick Greek yogurt adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the crumble. The tangy yogurt balances the sweetness of the dessert and provides a nice contrast to the warm, spiced plums.
5. Fresh Fruit: To keep things light and refreshing, serve your plum crumble with some fresh fruit on the side. Berries, apple slices, or even a simple fruit salad can complement the crumble’s flavors. The freshness of the fruit will provide a delightful contrast to the warm and comforting texture of the crumble.
6. Tea or Coffee: If you’re having the crumble as an afternoon treat or dessert after a meal, a nice cup of tea or coffee pairs wonderfully with it. For a classic pairing, opt for Earl Grey or English Breakfast tea. If you prefer coffee, a smooth cappuccino or a flat white would complement the crumble’s fruity and sweet notes.
7. Cheese: While it might seem unconventional, cheese can pair well with fruit-based desserts like plum crumble. A tangy, crumbly cheese such as a good quality blue cheese or goat cheese offers a savory contrast to the sweetness of the crumble, creating a sophisticated flavor balance.

Conclusion

The Hairy Bikers’ Plum Crumble is a timeless dessert that can be easily adapted to suit a variety of tastes. From spicing it up with cinnamon to adding a tropical coconut twist, the versatility of the recipe allows you to customize it in numerous ways. Properly storing leftovers ensures you can enjoy this delicious dessert over several days, and there are countless options for what to pair it with, from traditional vanilla ice cream to a dollop of tangy Greek yogurt.

Whether you’re enjoying it warm with a scoop of custard or simply savoring it on its own, a well-made plum crumble is a dessert that never disappoints. So, don’t hesitate to explore different twists, storage options, and pairings to make your crumble experience even more memorable!

FAQs

What Makes The Hairy Bikers’ Plum Crumble Recipe Different From Traditional Crumble?

The Hairy Bikers’ plum crumble recipe stands out by using ripe, juicy plums as the star fruit, which brings a unique sweetness and tartness to the dish. Unlike many traditional crumbles that rely on apples or berries, the plums offer a rich, flavorful filling. Additionally, the crumble topping is made with a perfect balance of butter, sugar, and flour to create a crunchy, golden texture, often with a hint of oats for extra crunch.

Can I Use Frozen Plums In The Hairy Bikers’ Plum Crumble Recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen plums in the Hairy Bikers’ plum crumble recipe. Simply allow the plums to thaw fully before using them. However, keep in mind that frozen fruit tends to release more liquid as it cooks, so you may want to slightly adjust the amount of sugar or thickening agents (like cornstarch) to prevent the filling from becoming too runny.

What Should I Serve With The Hairy Bikers’ Plum Crumble For A Complete Dessert Experience?

For a complete and indulgent dessert experience, serve the Hairy Bikers’ plum crumble with a dollop of freshly whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a splash of custard. These creamy additions complement the tartness of the plums and the crunch of the crumble topping, creating a well-rounded, satisfying treat.