Single Serving Apple Crumble You Can Make in Minutes

Craving a cozy dessert but don’t want to bake a whole pan? This Single Serving Apple Crumble is the answer. Warm, spiced apples tucked beneath a crisp, golden oat topping — all baked in one ramekin or mug — it’s everything you love about classic apple crumble in a perfectly portioned treat.

This quick and easy dessert comes together in under 30 minutes with pantry staples, making it ideal for late-night cravings, solo indulgence, or a simple way to end a weekday meal. No mixers, no fuss — just wholesome ingredients, a comforting aroma, and a soft-spoonable center with that irresistible crunch on top.

Ingredients Overview

Each layer in this crumble offers warmth, texture, and flavor. Here’s what you’ll need and how to adapt it for your taste or dietary needs.

Apple Filling

• Apple (1 medium)
  Choose a sweet-tart variety like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith. Peel if preferred, but it’s optional.

• Brown Sugar
  Adds sweetness and depth to the fruit without overwhelming it.

• Cinnamon + Nutmeg
  Warm, fragrant spices that enhance the apple’s natural flavor.

• Lemon Juice (Optional)
  A splash brightens the filling and balances sweetness.

• Cornstarch or Flour
  Thickens the juices slightly as the apple bakes, preventing sogginess.

Crumble Topping

• All-Purpose Flour
  Provides structure to the topping.

• Rolled Oats
  Add crunch and texture — old-fashioned oats are best.

• Brown Sugar
  Caramelizes while baking, adding toasty sweetness.

• Butter (Cold or Melted)
  Helps crisp and bind the topping. You can use salted or unsalted.

• Cinnamon (Optional)
  Infuses extra flavor in the topping to complement the apples.

Optional Add-ins

• Chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch

• A pinch of salt for balance

• A drizzle of maple syrup or honey in the filling for natural sweetness

Substitutions

• Use coconut oil or vegan butter for dairy-free

• Swap oats with chopped almonds or almond flour for gluten-free

• Try pear or peach in place of apple for variation

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Prep

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

Grease a ramekin (6–8 oz) or oven-safe mug with butter or spray.

2. Make the Apple Filling

Peel and dice your apple into small chunks. In a small bowl, toss apple with:

• 1 tsp brown sugar

• ¼ tsp cinnamon

• Pinch of nutmeg

• ½ tsp lemon juice (optional)

• ½ tsp flour or cornstarch

Spoon the mixture into the ramekin.

3. Make the Crumble Topping

In another small bowl, combine:

• 1 tbsp flour

• 1 tbsp rolled oats

• 1 tbsp brown sugar

• ½ tbsp cold butter, cubed (or melted for faster mixing)

• Pinch of cinnamon

Mix with fingers or a fork until crumbly.

Sprinkle evenly over the apple filling.

4. Bake

Place the ramekin on a small baking tray (to catch drips). Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is golden and the filling is bubbling.

Let cool for 5 minutes before serving — it will be hot!

5. Serve

Enjoy warm as-is, or top with:

• A scoop of vanilla ice cream

• Whipped cream

• A dollop of Greek yogurt or crème fraîche

Tips, Variations & Substitutions

Quick Tips:

• Dice apples small for faster cooking and a spoonable bite.

• For extra crisp topping, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end (watch closely).

• Make multiple ramekins in one batch for guests or meal prep.

Flavor Variations:

• Salted Caramel Apple: Add a drizzle of caramel before baking.

• Maple Cinnamon Crumble: Replace brown sugar with maple syrup and reduce flour slightly.

• Spiced Chai Apple Crumble: Add cardamom and ginger for a chai-inspired twist.

Substitutions:

• Gluten-Free: Use almond flour and certified GF oats.

• Dairy-Free: Swap butter with vegan butter or coconut oil.

• Low Sugar: Use a sugar substitute like coconut sugar or monk fruit.

Serving Ideas & Occasions

This single serving apple crumble is perfect for:

• Weeknight dessert without leftovers

• Late-night snack with a cup of tea

• Cozy breakfast with yogurt and extra fruit

• Holiday sampler platters — make mini ramekins for guests

It’s a feel-good dessert that’s as comforting as it is simple.

Nutritional & Health Notes

This dessert is balanced between indulgent and wholesome. Apples offer fiber and natural sweetness, while oats provide whole grain texture.

Ways to lighten it:

• Use less sugar or natural sweeteners

• Add chia seeds to the filling for fiber

• Top with yogurt instead of ice cream for a protein boost

Each serving offers a warm, satisfying portion without the temptation of overeating — built-in portion control!

FAQs

Q1: Can I make this in the microwave?

A1: Yes! Microwave in a mug for about 2½–3 minutes, checking halfway. The topping won’t be as crisp, but it will still be delicious.

Q2: Can I use canned apples or apple pie filling?

A2: You can, but reduce or skip the added sugar since pie filling is already sweetened. Add cinnamon for extra flavor if needed.

Q3: Can I double the recipe?

A3: Absolutely — just divide into two ramekins, or use a small baking dish for two servings. Adjust baking time slightly if thicker.

Q4: Can I prep this ahead?

A4: Yes. Assemble the filling and topping separately and store in the fridge. Bake when ready to serve for the best texture.

Q5: What type of apple is best?

A5: Tart-sweet varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Pink Lady work well. They hold their shape and balance the sweetness.

Q6: Can I freeze a single serving?

A6: You can freeze the unbaked assembled crumble. Bake from frozen at 350°F for 25–30 minutes until hot and bubbly.

Q7: How do I make this lower in sugar?

A7: Cut sugar in half, use stevia or monk fruit sweetener, or rely on the apple’s natural sweetness. Add cinnamon and lemon zest to boost flavor without extra sugar.

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