Happy New Year Brunch Side Dish!!

The holiday season calls for a dessert that’s both comforting and elegant, and these Apple Crisp Crumble Cups are the perfect solution. This delightful treat combines the warm, nostalgic flavors of spiced apples with a crispy, buttery topping, all served in individual portions that are sure to impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love These Apple Crisp Crumble Cups

Irresistible Texture and Flavor
Each spoonful offers a medley of textures – juicy, gooey, soft, and crisp. The warm cinnamon-spiced apples and a buttery brown sugar crumble create a dessert that’s both familiar and extraordinary. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or looking for a cozy treat, these cups are guaranteed to delight you. Versatile and Easy to Prepare
This recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a show-stopping dessert that looks like it came from a professional bakery4. Even children can help assemble these delightful cups, making it a fun family activity.

What you need:

For the Apple Filling

• 3 large apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp recommended)
• 3 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon melted unsalted butter
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg

For the Crumble Topping

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

Optional Garnishes

• Vanilla ice cream
• Salted caramel sauce
• Whipped cream
• Crushed almond or peanut brittle

Tips for Perfect Apple Crisp Crumble Cups

1. Apple Selection: Choose firm, crisp apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. These varieties hold their shape and perfectly balance tartness and sweetness.
2. Apple Preparation: Cut apples into 1-inch chunks, approximately 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick. Avoid cutting them too thin to maintain texture.
3. Crumble Topping Technique: Be careful not to over-mix when mixing the crumble. The goal is to create large, loose crumbles. Over-mixing will turn the topping into a paste.

What you need to do:

Preparing the Apple Filling

1. Peel and chop the apples into 1-inch chunks.
2. In a large bowl, combine:
   • Chopped apples
   • Brown sugar
   • Melted butter
   • Cinnamon
   • Nutmeg
3. Gently mix until apples are evenly coated.

Making the Crumble Topping

1. In a medium bowl, mix:
   • Flour
   • Rolled oats
   • Brown sugar
   • Cinnamon
   • Salt
2. Add softened butter and use a fork to create large, loose crumbles.
3. Do not over-mix – the topping should look like coarse crumbs.

Assembling the Cups

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease oven-safe ramekins or a muffin tin with butter.
3. Divide the apple mixture evenly among the ramekins.
4. Sprinkle the crumble topping generously over the apples.
5. Bake for 32-36 minutes until the topping is golden and the apples are soft.

Serving and Storage

• Serve warm directly from the oven.
• Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of salted caramel.
• Store leftover crumble cups in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.

Variations and Customizations

Microwave Version
For a quick single-serving dessert, try the microwave method:

• Use a microwave-safe mug
• Layer apples and crumble
• Microwave for 3 minutes
• Let cool slightly before enjoying

Mini Apple Crisp Bites
Create bite-sized versions using a mini muffin tin:

• Press oatmeal cookie-like crust into tin
• Fill with apple mixture
• Top with additional crumble
• Bake until golden

Nutritional Considerations

• Egg-Free: This recipe is naturally egg-free, making it suitable for those with egg allergies4.
• Customizable: Adjust sugar and spices to taste.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour and oats.

These Apple Crisp Crumble Cups are more than just a dessert – they’re a holiday experience. The combination of warm spices, tender apples, and crispy topping creates a memorable treat that captures the essence of the season. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or enjoying a quiet evening at home, these individual desserts are sure to bring joy and comfort. Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 4-6 individual cups

Happy baking, and enjoy the New Year!