Apple, Pear, And Blueberry Crumble

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If you’re in the mood for something warm and sweet, this Apple, Pear, And Blueberry Crumble is the answer. This delicious crumble may be served as a dessert or a treat at any time of year. You can serve it with ice cream, yogurt, or whipped cream on top for an extra sweet treat!

Apple, Pear, And Blueberry Crumble - Cooking With Fudge

SUGAR AND SPICE AND EVERYTHING NICE

This Apple, Pear, And Blueberry Crumble is so comforting in colder months when you want a warm dessert! It is delicious served alone, or you can even pair it alongside some ice cream, yogurt, or whipped cream. Honestly, given this lightened up version, I could totally justify having this for breakfast as well!

In this specific recipe, sweet apples are combined with juicy pears and tart blueberries to form a filling that is then finished off with a decadent topping that has notes of oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg throughout. This dessert is simple yet spectacular, and it’s even an option you could proudly serve while entertaining guests.

WHAT IS A CRUMBLE?

Before we begin, let’s talk about crumbles. What exactly is a fruit crumble anyway? A crumble is a warm dessert that is made of baked fresh fruit with a streusel crumb topping. As the fruit bakes, the juices seep throughout, making it even more sweet without needing to add more sugar. The topping is typically made from a decadent mixture of oats, flour, butter, and sugar, with the option of adding chopped nuts if you desire.

Cobblers, crisps, and crumbles are all common baked fruit desserts with a pastry topping. Crisps and crumbles are very similar, with their main ingredient being fresh fruit, baked with a streusel-like topping until the fruit is soft and tender.

WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS FRUIT CRUMBLE

  • It’s unbelievably simple to make.
  • You can make it at any time of year.
  • It can be served either warm or cold with a dollop of ice cream, yogurt, or whipped cream.
  • When using fruit that is already in season, it can be an inexpensive dish to make.
  • It provides the perfect combination of sweet and tart flavors in a single bite.
  • With most of the sweetness coming from the baked fruit, you don’t need to add a lot of sugar.

Apple, Pear, And Blueberry Crumble - Cooking With Fudge

WHAT YOU NEED TO MAKE THIS APPLE, PEAR, AND BLUEBERRY CRUMBLE

EQUIPMENT

  • Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Microplane grater
  • Two large bowls
  • Spoon
  • 8×8 baking dish

INGREDIENTS

Apple, Pear, And Blueberry Crumble - Cooking With FudgeApple, Pear, And Blueberry Crumble - Cooking With Fudge

  • Fresh fruit: I’m using thinly sliced apples and pears, along with some blueberries.
  • Lemon juice and zest: This adds a hint of tartness while also preventing the cut fruit from turning brown as quickly. If you don’t have a fresh lemon on hand, you can use bottled lemon juice.
  • Brown sugar: While the fruit is already pretty sweet, the brown sugar just takes it up a notch.
  • Corn starch: Corn starch will help the juices from the fruit thicken a bit.
  • Salt: Always use a pinch of salt when you’re baking to balance out the sweetness!
  • Old fashioned oats: Any kind will do! I prefer Quaker brand.
  • All-purpose flour: This will help bring the oat topping together.
  • Spices: Cinnamon and nutmeg add some warmth to this dish that can’t be beat.
  • Light butter: You can also use regular butter if you prefer.
  • Cooking spray: No one wants their crumble sticking to their baking dish!

HOW TO MAKE THIS APPLE, PEAR, AND BLUEBERRY CRUMBLE

  • First, preheat your oven to 400 degrees and spray an 8×8 baking dish with cooking spray.

HOW TO MAKE CRUMBLE FILLING:

  • Using a knife and cutting board, peel the apples and pears if desired. Then, thinly slice the apples and pears.
  • Juice and zest the lemon.
  • In a large bowl, mix together the apples, pears, blueberries, lemon juice, lemon zest, half of the brown sugar, corn starch, and salt. This is your crumble filling.
  • Next, spread the filling into the 8×8 baking dish.

Apple, Pear, And Blueberry Crumble - Cooking With FudgeApple, Pear, And Blueberry Crumble - Cooking With FudgeApple, Pear, And Blueberry Crumble - Cooking With FudgeApple, Pear, And Blueberry Crumble - Cooking With FudgeApple, Pear, And Blueberry Crumble - Cooking With FudgeApple, Pear, And Blueberry Crumble - Cooking With Fudge

HOW TO MAKE CRUMBLE TOPPING:

  • In another bowl, combine the oats, flour, the remaining brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and melted butter.
  • This topping mixture will be crumbly, and that’s how you want it!
  • Then, sprinkle the topping on top of the filling. It does not need to cover the whole surface.

Apple, Pear, And Blueberry Crumble - Cooking With FudgeApple, Pear, And Blueberry Crumble - Cooking With FudgeApple, Pear, And Blueberry Crumble - Cooking With Fudge

BAKING AND SERVING THE CRUMBLE:

  • Finally, bake for 30-35 minutes until the topping is golden brown.
  • Serve warm with ice cream, yogurt, or whipped cream. This can also be served cold if desired.

Apple, Pear, And Blueberry Crumble - Cooking With Fudge

TIPS AND TRICKS

While you can make various types of fruit crumbles, in this recipe I’ve used apples, pears, and blueberries. Here are some tips and tricks to help guide you along the way as you consider your options.

  • For the best apple for your crumble, you’ll want to select a type that can withstand the baking process. Be sure to look for a crisp, tart variety like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith. If you happen to have both on hand, you can mix them together. Of course, crumbles can be made with other apple varieties such as Gala, Jonagold, Pink Lady, Braeburn, Golden Delicious, Red Delicious, Fuji, or Cortland.
  • As for the pears. Bosc, Anjou, Bartlett, Concorde, and French Butter pears are all excellent choices for baking pears because they retain their shape and flavor even when cooked at high temperatures. Also, they don’t turn brown as quickly after they’ve been sliced.
  • Finally, let’s discuss the blueberries. Frozen fruit is a great alternative to fresh fruit when baking. If you don’t have access to fresh blueberries, you can certainly make do with frozen blueberries instead.

Apple, Pear, And Blueberry Crumble - Cooking With Fudge

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

IS A COBBLER THE SAME AS A CRUMBLE?

No. A cobbler is a fruit-based dessert that is typically made with a top crust of pie dough or biscuits without a bottom crust. On the other hand, a crumble is a fruit-based dessert that is similar to cobbler but has a streusel topping that is typically made with oats, flour, butte, and sugar.

IS A CRUMBLE THE SAME AS A CRISP?

Yes. Crumbles and crisps are essentially the same dessert, and the terms are often used interchangeably.

IS A CRUMBLE OR CRISP THE SAME AS A PIE?

A pie is not the same dessert as a crumble or crisp. A pie has a bottom crust on which a filling is placed, and then it is finished off with an additional crust on top, whereas crumbles and crisps do not have a bottom crust layer. Crumbles and crisps simply have a streusel topping on top of a fruit filling.

CAN YOU SUBSTITUTE OTHER FRUITS?

Yes, you can use other fruits in place of what is listed in this recipe. In fact, you can use any combination of fruits that you prefer. Have fun experimenting!

WHY DOES YOUR RECIPE CALL FOR LEMON JUICE?

The lemon juice adds a hint of tartness, and it also keeps the sliced fruit from turning brown.

WHY DOES BROWN SUGAR SOMETIMES HARDEN WHEN IT IS STORED?

Brown sugar hardens as its natural moisture begins to evaporate. Unless it is stored properly, the soft sugar granules will harden into a lump. While it is still safe to eat in its solid state, there’s no way to measure it out accurately for a recipe until it has softened up again.

I WENT TO GET MY BROWN SUGAR AND IT’S AS SOLID AS A ROCK. HOW CAN I SOFTEN IT UP QUICKLY?

Happily, there are several easy and quick ways to soften brown sugar that has hardened while being stored.

Here are several options to consider:

  • In the microwave: Simply place the brown sugar in a microwave-safe bowl, top with a damp paper towel, and microwave for ten seconds at a time until the sugar is soft and crumbly again. In between sessions in the microwave, use a fork or spoon to help break up the lump of brown sugar. Be careful not to microwave it for too long, as you don’t want it to melt or burn. Also, make sure to handle it carefully because the sugar will likely be very hot.
  • In the oven: Heat your oven to 250°F. Place the brown sugar in an oven-safe bowl and put it in the oven for two minutes at a time until the sugar is soft, using a fork or spoon to help break up the lump along the way.
  • With a slice of apple or bread: If you don’t need to use your brown sugar right away, you can place a slice of apple or fresh bread in an airtight container with the brown sugar. In about 24 hours, the sugar will absorb the moisture from the apple or bread and become soft again. Make sure to remove the apple or bread after that time so it doesn’t go bad.
  • With terra cotta: As above, if you have some time to spare before you need to use your brown sugar, you can soak a piece of terra cotta in water for about 20 minutes. Then, place the piece of terra cotta in an airtight container with the brown sugar. Similar to the apple or bread trick, the brown sugar will absorb the moisture from the terra cotta after about a day and become soft again.

WHAT IS THE BEST WAY TO STORE BROWN SUGAR?

If brown sugar is stored properly, it is less likely to become a hardened lump. The best way to store brown sugar is in a dry pantry in an airtight container either with a marshmallow or a piece of terra cotta. You can even find terra cotta sugar savers that come in all sorts of cute shapes like bears, leaves, and more.

CAN YOU PREPARE A FRUIT CRUMBLE AHEAD OF TIME?

Yes! You can prepare your crumble in advance and store it in the refrigerator to bake within 2-3 days, or you can freeze your assembled crumble to bake up to six months from when it was made.

WHAT ARE THE BEST APPLES TO USE FOR BAKING?

When considering which apple to use, you’ll want to choose one that is firm enough to hold its shape during the baking process. In this recipe I used Honeycrisp apples, and I have also used Granny Smith apples in the past. You can even use a combination of your favorite apples if you happen to have both on hand!

Here are some other excellent choices for baking apples…

  • Honeycrisp: Distinctly sweet and crisp
  • Granny Smith: Tart and crunchy
  • Gala: Crisp and very sweet
  • Jonagold: Tart and crisp
  • Pink Lady: Crunchy and the perfect balance of sweet and tart
  • Braeburn: Sweet and moist, while able to hold its shape well
  • Golden Delicious: Crisp and sweet
  • Red Delicious: Crunchy and mildly sweet
  • Fuji: Crunchy and very sweet
  • Cortland: Juicy and a bit sour

WHAT ARE THE BEST PEARS TO USE FOR BAKING?

Choosing the best pear for baking depends on the outcome you’re hoping to achieve. Are you wanting the pear to hold up and keep its shape, or are you wanting the pear to fall apart during the cooking process? In the case of a crumble, you’re wanting to look for a pear that will hold its shape as it withstands higher temperatures. In this recipe, I used green Anjou pears, and I have also used Bosc pears as well.

Other excellent options for a crumble are…

  • Bosc: Crisp and sweet
  • Anjou: Firm, juicy, and mild-flavored
  • Concorde: Juicy and smooth with a hint of vanilla
  • French Butter: Juicy and buttery with a hint of lemon

ARE THERE ANY OTHER FRUITS THAT ARE GOOD FOR BAKING?

In addition to the apples, pears, and blueberries that are used in this recipe, peaches, plums, cherries, raspberries, blackberries, and strawberries are more wonderful examples of fruit that are perfect for baking.

DO I NEED TO PEEL THE APPLES OR PEARS?

Only if you want to! This truly is a matter of personal preference. I like keeping the peels on because with the way they are so thinly sliced, you barely notice they are there. You can absolutely peel them beforehand if you prefer. Here’s a great peeler you can use! [LINK]

CAN I USE BOTTLED LEMON JUICE INSTEAD OF FRESH?

Yes, bottled lemon juice is a perfect substitute if you don’t have a fresh lemon on hand.

Apple, Pear, And Blueberry Crumble - Cooking With Fudge

STORAGE, REHEATING, AND FREEZING

WHAT IS THE BEST WAY TO STORE A FRUIT CRUMBLE?

Because it contains butter, the crumble should be kept refrigerated. After baking, allow it to cool before placing it in an airtight container. If you don’t have a container that is large enough, you can cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It will last at least 4-5 days in the refrigerator.

HOW DO YOU REHEAT A FRUIT CRUMBLE?

The method you use to reheat this Apple, Pear, And Blueberry Crumble will have an impact on the final flavor and texture of the dish. A crumble that is reheated in the oven retains a crispy topping, while reheating it in the microwave results in a more softened topping. (Both are equally as delicious, by the way!)

If you’re in a hurry to eat or don’t want to reheat the entire pan, you can heat up individual portions in the microwave. In this case, you would pop it in the microwave for about 30 seconds to a minute until warmed through.

When reheating a frozen whole crumble, place it in the refrigerator overnight until it has completely thawed. Then, preheat your oven to 350°F. When the oven is ready, place the crumble in it and heat for 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through.

CAN YOU FREEZE A FRUIT CRUMBLE?

This Apple, Pear, And Blueberry Crumble can be frozen, which means you can make several batches ahead of time. This is especially helpful during the holidays to save time or to give as gifts. Crumbles can be frozen both baked and unbaked.

When freezing your crumble, make sure you wait for it to cool completely if it’s fresh from the oven, but don’t leave it out at room temperature for more than two hours. Once it has cooled, cover it tightly with a lid or aluminum foil and place in the freezer. You can keep it in the freezer for up to six months without compromising the quality.

When you’re ready to enjoy, simply follow the directions above when reheating the frozen crumble.

Apple, Pear, And Blueberry Crumble - Cooking With Fudge

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION

This Apple, Pear, And Blueberry Crumble makes six servings. Each serving comes out to 188 calories, 4 WW Green SmartPoints®, 4 WW Blue SmartPoints®, and 3 WW Purple SmartPoints®.

Go here to calculate your own WW PersonalPoints™ for this recipe.

MORE DESSERT RECIPES

If you have a sweet tooth and are looking for more dessert recipes, be sure to check out these other options below…

If you make this recipe, please let me know! Leave a comment below, or post a picture and tag me on FacebookInstagramPinterest, or Twitter with @cookingwithfudge or #cookingwithfudge.

Originally posted on September 10, 2020. Reposted on April 5, 2022 with different pictures and more detailed instructions.

Apple, Pear, And Blueberry Crumble - Cooking With Fudge

Apple, Pear, And Blueberry Crumble - Cooking With Fudge

Apple, Pear, And Blueberry Crumble

Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Keywords: Apple, Blueberry, Crumble, Dessert, Pear
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 188kcal
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
4.76 from 25 votes
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Adjustable Servings: 6 servings

Equipment

  • Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Microplane grater
  • Two large bowls
  • Spoon
  • 8x8 baking dish

Ingredients

  • 2 apples thinly sliced
  • 2 pears thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup blueberries
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1/8 cup brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon corn starch
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup Quaker old fashioned oats
  • 1/4 cup all purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 4 tablespoons light butter melted
  • Cooking spray

Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 400 degrees and spray an 8x8 baking dish with cooking spray.
  • Using a knife and cutting board, peel the apples and pears if desired. Then, thinly slice the apples and pears.
  • Juice and zest the lemon.
  • In a large bowl, mix together the apples, pears, blueberries, lemon juice, lemon zest, half of the brown sugar, corn starch, and salt. This is your crumble filling.
  • Next, spread the filling into the 8×8 baking dish.
  • In another bowl, combine the oats, flour, the remaining brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and melted butter. This topping mixture will be crumbly, and that’s how you want it!
  • Then, sprinkle the topping on top of the filling. It does not need to cover the whole surface.
  • Finally, bake for 30-35 minutes until the topping is golden brown.
  • Serve warm with ice cream, yogurt, or whipped cream. This can also be served cold if desired.

Notes

This Apple, Pear, And Blueberry Crumble makes six servings. Each serving comes out to 188 calories, 4 WW Green SmartPoints®, 4 WW Blue SmartPoints®, and 3 WW Purple SmartPoints®.
Recipe URL: https://cookingwithfudge.com/apple-pear-blueberry-crumble/

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 188kcal | Carbohydrates: 34g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 6g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 10mg | Sodium: 104mg | Potassium: 180mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 18g | Vitamin A: 206IU | Vitamin C: 8mg | Calcium: 24mg | Iron: 1mg
Tried this recipe?Mention @CookingWithFudge or tag #CookingWithFudge!

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18 Comments

  1. Fruit crumbles are such an easy dessert and my family loves them. I like to try out different flavour combinations or just use up whatever fruit is in my fridge at the moment. Next up, apple pear and blueberry crumble!

  2. 5 stars
    enjoyed this apple pear and blueberry crumble with some ice cream as for our snack and then ate it as well the following day less the ice cream. Great flavors from the fruits and cinnamon, also the smell was so good.

  3. 5 stars
    We normally just make apple crumble, but decided to give this recipe a try. The combination of fruits make this crumble much better than your standard crumble with only apples. We really liked it. Thank you!

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