Hairy Bikers’ Blackberry And Apple Crumble Recipe

Hairy Bikers’ Blackberry and Apple Crumble is a classic, comforting dessert that blends the tartness of blackberries with the sweetness of apples. The Hairy Bikers, known for their approachable yet delicious recipes, have created this dish to embody everything we love about a traditional British crumble.

The fruity filling is topped with a crisp, golden crumble topping that is both buttery and slightly crunchy, creating a perfect contrast in texture. The blend of blackberries and apples not only makes this dessert a delicious treat but also adds a vibrant and seasonal touch to the dish, perfect for autumn or any time you want a warm, homemade dessert to enjoy with family and friends.

What makes the Hairy Bikers’ version stand out is their balance of flavors, easy-to-follow instructions, and the use of ingredients that most people already have in their pantry or fridge. It’s a dish that’s simple yet packed with flavor, making it ideal for both novice and experienced cooks. The recipe is designed to be straightforward, and the result is a dish that feels both nostalgic and fresh.

Hairy Bikers’ Blackberry And Apple Crumble Recipe

Ingredients Needed

For this delightful dessert, you will need the following ingredients:

For The Fruit Filling

• 400g (14oz) cooking apples, peeled, cored, and chopped
• 250g (9oz) blackberries (fresh or frozen)
• 2 tablespoons caster sugar (or more to taste depending on the tartness of the fruit)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, but adds great depth to the flavor)

For The Crumble Topping

• 200g (7oz) plain flour
• 100g (3.5oz) cold unsalted butter, cubed
• 100g (3.5oz) demerara sugar (this gives a lovely crunch)
• A pinch of salt (to balance the sweetness)

Optional for serving:

• Custard or cream for pouring over the warm crumble

These ingredients are simple and familiar, making it an easy-to-make dessert that doesn’t require specialized tools or ingredients.

Equipment Needed

To prepare this irresistible dessert, you will need the following equipment:

1. A Large Mixing Bowl – for combining the dry ingredients for the crumble and mixing the fruit filling.
2. A Baking Dish – preferably one around 20-23 cm (8-9 inches) in diameter. This is the dish you’ll use to bake the crumble.
3. A Saucepan – to cook the apples, blackberries, sugar, and cinnamon to create the fruity base.
4. A Pastry Cutter or Two Knives – to rub the butter into the flour for the crumble topping (alternatively, you can use your fingers).
5. A Spoon or Spatula – for mixing the ingredients and spreading the crumble topping evenly.
6. An Oven – to bake your crumble to perfection.

Step-by-Step Guide To Make Hairy Bikers’ Blackberry And Apple Crumble

1. Prepare The Fruit Filling

   • Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (160°C fan) or 350°F. Grease your baking dish lightly with butter or non-stick spray.
   • Peel, core, and chop the apples into small pieces, then place them into a saucepan.
   • Add the blackberries to the saucepan along with the caster sugar, lemon juice, and cinnamon if you’re using it.
   • Cook the fruit mixture over medium heat for about 5-10 minutes, just enough to soften the apples and release the blackberry juices. Stir occasionally and taste to adjust the sweetness by adding more sugar if needed. Once the fruit is cooked, transfer the mixture into your prepared baking dish.

2. Make The Crumble Topping

   • In a separate bowl, sift the flour and pinch of salt. Add the cold cubed butter to the flour.
   • Using a pastry cutter or two knives, rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. If you’re using your hands, be sure to work quickly so the butter stays cold.
   • Once the mixture is crumbly, stir in the demerara sugar for extra crunch.
   • Evenly sprinkle the crumble topping over the fruit filling in the baking dish. Try to cover the fruit completely for a uniform bake.

3. Bake The Crumble

   • Place the crumble in the oven and bake for about 35-40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the fruit is bubbling around the edges.
   • Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

4. Serve

   • Serve your warm Hairy Bikers’ Blackberry and Apple Crumble with a side of creamy custard or a dollop of fresh cream for an indulgent treat.

Mastering The Recipe: Tips And Tricks

• Choose the Right Apples: While any apple will work, cooking apples like Bramley are ideal for crumbles as they break down nicely, creating a soft and flavorful base. If you prefer a firmer texture, you can mix eating apples (like Gala or Braeburn) with cooking apples.
• Balancing Sweetness: The tartness of blackberries may require extra sugar, but this depends on how sweet the apples are. Taste the fruit mixture before cooking, and adjust the sweetness according to your preference.
• Frozen Blackberries: If you’re using frozen blackberries, there’s no need to thaw them first. However, they might release more liquid while baking, so you may want to add a little extra sugar or a spoonful of cornflour to help thicken the fruit filling.
• Add Nuts or Oats: For added texture, you can mix in some chopped almonds, hazelnuts, or rolled oats into the crumble topping. This gives it a more rustic, crunchy feel.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the fruit filling and crumble topping ahead of time. Simply refrigerate both separately and assemble the crumble when you’re ready to bake. The crumble can also be frozen; just wrap it tightly and bake from frozen, adding an extra 10 minutes to the baking time.
• Perfect Golden Crumble: For a golden and extra-crunchy topping, brush the crumble with a little melted butter before baking. This adds a richer flavor and enhances the crunch.

The Hairy Bikers’ Blackberry and Apple Crumble is a timeless dessert that combines the earthy sweetness of apples and the tart burst of blackberries, wrapped in a crisp, buttery crumble topping. This easy-to-follow recipe is perfect for those who want to create something comforting without spending hours in the kitchen.

Whether you’re enjoying it with family during a cozy evening or serving it at a dinner party, this crumble is sure to be a hit. By following these simple steps and incorporating a few tricks, you can master this classic dessert, and enjoy a dish that is both hearty and satisfying, with a touch of nostalgia.

Simple Twists On Hairy Bikers’ Blackberry And Apple Crumble Recipe

The Hairy Bikers’ Blackberry and Apple Crumble is a classic comfort food dessert, bringing together the sweetness of blackberries, the tartness of apples, and the deliciously crumbly topping that everyone loves. While the original recipe is a winner in itself, there are plenty of simple twists you can add to elevate the dish or give it a personal touch. Here are a few ideas:

1. Add a Touch of Spice: Enhance the flavor profile by adding spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger. A teaspoon of cinnamon mixed into the crumble topping or sprinkled over the fruit filling can create a warm, cozy aroma. Nutmeg brings a more subtle, earthy warmth, while ginger can add a zingy kick. These spices not only complement the fruit but also give the crumble a wintery vibe that’s perfect for colder months.
2. Incorporate Other Fruits: While blackberries and apples are a traditional pairing, you can mix things up by incorporating other fruits to change the flavor dynamics. Consider adding pears, plums, or even a handful of raspberries. Each fruit will bring its own unique sweetness or tartness, adding depth to the dish.
3. Swap for a Different Type of Flour: The crumble topping is typically made from plain flour, sugar, and butter. For a twist, you could use whole wheat flour for a nutty flavor or almond flour for a more delicate, slightly nutty taste. This variation works especially well for those who are gluten-free or looking for an alternative.
4. Use Brown Sugar or Maple Syrup: Instead of using white sugar, swap it for brown sugar to give your crumble a deeper, caramelized flavor. For a more sophisticated touch, you could even use maple syrup or honey in the crumble topping for a natural sweetness with a bit of richness.
5. Nuts for Crunch: Add some crushed nuts to your crumble topping for extra texture and flavor. Walnuts, almonds, or pecans bring a toasty, earthy note that contrasts beautifully with the soft fruit and buttery crumble. You can either sprinkle them into the crumble mixture or scatter them over the top for a crunchy finish.
6. Top with Custard or Ice Cream: To take your dessert to the next level, serve it with a generous pour of vanilla custard or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creaminess of custard balances the tartness of the fruit, while ice cream adds a refreshing contrast to the warmth of the crumble.

How To Properly Store Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover Hairy Bikers’ Blackberry and Apple Crumble, you’ll want to store it properly to maintain its flavor and texture for the next day (or longer!). Here’s how you can do it:

1. Cool Completely Before Storing: After you’ve enjoyed your first helping, let the crumble cool to room temperature. Storing it while it’s still hot can create condensation, which will make the topping soggy and reduce the overall quality of the dessert.
2. Use an Airtight Container: For short-term storage (up to 2-3 days), place the leftover crumble in an airtight container. This will help maintain its freshness and prevent it from absorbing any other odors from the fridge.
3. Freezing Leftovers: If you want to store it for a longer period (up to 3 months), freezing the crumble is a great option. Once it has cooled completely, transfer the leftover crumble to a freezer-safe container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. To prevent freezer burn, be sure to wrap it well. You can also freeze individual portions for easier defrosting later.
4. Reheating Tips: When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, simply reheat in the oven for the best results. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F), and place the crumble in an oven-safe dish. Cover it loosely with foil and heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. If you want the crumble topping to be crispy again, remove the foil for the last few minutes of heating.

If you’re short on time, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave, but the topping might lose some of its crunch. Regardless, you’ll still enjoy the delicious blend of fruit and buttery crumble!

What To Eat With Hairy Bikers’ Blackberry And Apple Crumble?

This dessert is already quite indulgent, but pairing it with the right accompaniments can elevate the experience even more. Here are a few ideas to complement your Blackberry and Apple Crumble:

1. Vanilla Custard: The classic pairing with any fruit crumble is a creamy custard. The smooth and rich texture of custard balances the tartness of the fruit and the crumbliness of the topping. A dollop of thick, homemade custard or a splash of store-bought custard will make for a deliciously indulgent dessert experience.
2. Ice Cream: If you’re looking for a lighter contrast, serve the crumble with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cold, creamy ice cream provides a refreshing balance to the warm, spiced fruit and crunchy topping.
3. Whipped Cream: For a simple and lighter alternative to custard or ice cream, a dollop of freshly whipped cream can do the trick. You could even add a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon to the cream to complement the crumble’s flavors.
4. Yogurt: For a healthier option, serve the crumble with a spoonful of natural yogurt or Greek yogurt. The slight tang of the yogurt can cut through the sweetness and richness of the crumble while adding a creamy element.
5. Fresh Berries: While the crumble itself is filled with blackberries, adding a handful of fresh berries on the side can bring an extra layer of freshness. Consider using raspberries, blueberries, or strawberries for a colorful and flavorful side dish.
6. A Hot Drink: Pairing your crumble with a hot beverage such as a spiced chai latte, a cup of tea, or even a freshly brewed coffee can enhance the cozy, comforting experience. A spiced drink can tie together the warming spices in the crumble and make for an all-around comforting dessert moment.

Conclusion

The Hairy Bikers’ Blackberry and Apple Crumble is a dessert that evokes feelings of nostalgia, comfort, and warmth. With just a few tweaks, you can add your own flair, experimenting with spices, additional fruits, or even different types of flour and sweeteners.

Storing leftovers properly ensures you can enjoy the crumble for days to come, and pairing it with the right accompaniments like custard, ice cream, or whipped cream can transform this humble dish into a true indulgence. Whether you’re serving it fresh out of the oven or reheating it later, a perfectly executed crumble remains a timeless dessert that everyone can enjoy.

FAQs

What Makes The Hairy Bikers’ Blackberry And Apple Crumble Recipe Unique?

The Hairy Bikers’ blackberry and apple crumble recipe stands out due to its perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors, combining juicy blackberries with the warmth and comfort of apples. They also use a buttery, golden crumble topping, which adds a delightful crunch that complements the softness of the fruit. Their recipe is known for its simplicity, highlighting the natural flavors of the ingredients, and it can be easily adapted to suit different dietary preferences.

Can I Use Frozen Blackberries For The Hairy Bikers’ Crumble Recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen blackberries in the Hairy Bikers’ crumble recipe. However, it’s important to thaw them before using them, as excess moisture from frozen berries can make the filling too runny. If you’re using frozen blackberries, it’s also recommended to add a little extra sugar to balance the tartness, as frozen berries tend to be slightly more acidic than fresh ones.

How Can I Make The Hairy Bikers’ Blackberry And Apple Crumble Recipe Vegan-friendly?

To make the Hairy Bikers’ blackberry and apple crumble vegan-friendly, you can substitute the butter in the crumble topping with a plant-based butter or margarine. For the filling, ensure you use a dairy-free option for any liquid, such as almond milk or oat milk, if you prefer a creamier texture. The recipe can easily be adapted without losing its delicious flavor and comforting texture.