Hairy Bikers Apple and Blackberry Crumble Recipe

Discover the warmth and comfort of the Hairy Bikers' Apple and Blackberry Crumble, a recipe that combines the tartness of Bramley apples with the sweet juiciness of blackberries, all under a golden, crunchy topping. This dish, perfect for cozy nights in or as a delightful finish to a family dinner, encapsulates the essence of British autumn in every bite.

The Essence of Hairy Bikers' Apple and Blackberry Crumble

This recipe is a testament to the simplicity and elegance of combining fruit with a crumbly, buttery topping. Featuring ripe Bramley apples and succulent blackberries as the base, the crumble is accentuated with spices and a rich, almond-flaked topping for an added depth of flavor and texture.

Cultural and Historical Context

The apple and blackberry crumble holds a special place in British culinary tradition, often evoking nostalgic memories of home-cooked meals. It reflects the British penchant for desserts that balance sweetness with tartness, and warmth with crunch, showcasing seasonal fruits in a comforting dish.

Ingredients for the Hairy Bikers' Apple and Blackberry Crumble

• Bramley apples, 4 large (peeled, cored, and sliced)
• Blackberries, 200g
• Caster sugar, 100g (for apples) + 2 tbsp (for topping)
• Ground cinnamon, 1 tsp
• Plain flour, 200g
• Unsalted butter, 150g (chilled and diced)
• Rolled oats, 100g
• Demerara sugar, 50g
• A pinch of salt
• A pinch of nutmeg

Preparation Instructions

1. Begin by preparing your fruit filling, mixing sliced Bramley apples with caster sugar and cinnamon before layering them with blackberries in a greased dish.
2. For the crumble topping, combine flour, salt, and nutmeg, then work in chilled butter to achieve a breadcrumb-like texture. Stir in oats and demerara sugar for crunch.
3. Assemble the crumble by generously covering the fruit with the topping mixture, then sprinkle with additional caster sugar for a caramelized finish.
4. Bake until golden and bubbling, offering a perfect contrast of textures from the soft, fragrant fruit to the crispy, golden topping.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover crumble can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for longer preservation. For reheating, either warm in the oven to revive its crispiness or briefly in the microwave for convenience.

Nutritional Information

A single serving offers a balance of sweetness and richness, with approximately 436 calories, including 19g of fat and 64g of carbohydrates.

FAQ about Hairy Bikers' Apple and Blackberry Crumble

• Can I use different types of apples? Yes, while Bramley apples are preferred for their tartness and texture, other varieties can also work well.
• How can I ensure my crumble topping is crunchy? Keeping the butter cold and not overworking the mixture are key steps to achieving a perfectly crunchy topping.
• Can I add nuts to the topping? Yes, adding flaked almonds or other nuts introduces an additional layer of texture and flavor.

Indulge in the rich, comforting flavors of the Hairy Bikers' Apple and Blackberry Crumble, a recipe that marries the sweetness of fruit with a delightfully crunchy topping for a classic British dessert that never fails to please.

For the complete recipe and more tips, visit Hairy Bikers' official website​​and British Recipes Book​​.