James Martin Apple Crumble

James Martin's Blackberry and Apple Crumble, coupled with homemade custard, offers a delightful blend of tart Bramley apples and sweet blackberries under a crunchy, buttery crumble. This classic British dessert is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a nod to the country's culinary traditions, perfect for any dessert table or as a comforting treat during the colder months.

Ingredients for the Blackberry and Apple Crumble

For the fruity base:

• 1kg Bramley apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
• 150g to 300g blackberries
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon (for a hint of warmth)

For the crumble topping:

• 250g plain flour
• 250g Demerara sugar (for a caramel-like crunch)
• 250g butter, diced and chilled (to achieve that perfect crumbly texture)

For the custard:

• 8 egg yolks
• 75g caster sugar
• 300ml milk
• 300ml double cream
• 1 vanilla pod and its seeds (for that classic custard flavor)

Preparation Instructions

1. Begin by preheating your oven to 180C.
2. Prepare the crumble topping by working the butter into the flour until it resembles breadcrumbs, then mix in the Demerara sugar.
3. Layer the sliced apples and blackberries in a baking dish, lightly dusting them with sugar, then evenly distribute the crumble topping over the fruit.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 to 45 minutes, until the topping is golden and the fruit is tender.
5. While the crumble bakes, prepare the custard by heating milk and cream with a vanilla pod, then whisking in egg yolks and sugar until thickened.

Storage and Reheating

To store, cool the crumble completely before covering and refrigerating. It can be reheated in an oven until warm throughout. The custard should be stored separately in the refrigerator and gently reheated, stirring constantly to prevent curdling.

Nutritional Information

This dessert is rich in carbohydrates and fats due to its sugar, flour, and butter content. Each serving provides energy, but moderation is key due to the high sugar and fat content.

FAQ about the Blackberry and Apple Crumble

Q: Can I use frozen blackberries? A: Yes, frozen blackberries can be used. Allow them to thaw slightly before using to ensure even cooking.

Q: How can I make the crumble gluten-free? A: Substitute the plain flour with a gluten-free blend for a gluten-free version of the crumble topping.

Q: Can I make the custard without a vanilla pod? A: Yes, vanilla extract can be used as a substitute for the vanilla pod in the custard.

This delightful recipe showcases the simplicity and warmth of traditional British baking. Serve James Martin's Blackberry and Apple Crumble with freshly made custard for a comforting and satisfying dessert that's sure to please any crowd​​​​.