Mini Apple Walnut Crumble
This cozy Mini Apple Walnut Crumble is the perfect autumn treat, combining tender cinnamon-spiced apples with a buttery oat and walnut topping. It’s a delightful dessert suitable for family gatherings, holiday celebrations, or a comforting evening at home. With its warm flavors and inviting aroma, this crumble will quickly become a favorite. Enjoy it warm, topped with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for that extra indulgence.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This Mini Apple Walnut Crumble comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights or unexpected guests.
- Deliciously Comforting: The combination of spiced apples and crunchy walnuts creates a satisfying texture and flavor that’s perfect for fall.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it warm with ice cream, or enjoy it on its own for a delightful dessert experience.
- Healthy Ingredients: This recipe uses wholesome ingredients like apples and walnuts, making it a healthier dessert choice.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday feast or a simple family dinner, this crumble is sure to impress!

Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather the necessary tools before you start.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking dish (8×8-inch) or small ramekins
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking dish: Ensures even cooking and browning of your crumble.
- Mixing bowls: Provides ample space to combine ingredients without mess.
- Knife and cutting board: Essential for efficiently slicing apples to the perfect thickness.
Ingredients
For the filling:
- 5 Granny Smith apples, peeled and thinly sliced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground cardamom
- 3 tablespoons melted butter
For the crumble topping:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
- ¼ cup rolled oats
- 3 tablespoons finely chopped walnuts
How to Make Mini Apple Walnut Crumble
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish or small ramekins to prepare for baking.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
In a large bowl, mix the following:
1. 5 thinly sliced Granny Smith apples
2. Juice of 1 lemon
3. ½ cup brown sugar
4. 1 tablespoon cinnamon
5. ½ teaspoon ground cardamom
6. 3 tablespoons melted butter
Mix until all apple slices are well coated with the mixture.
Step 3: Make the Crumble Topping
In another bowl, combine:
1. 1 cup all-purpose flour
2. ½ cup granulated sugar
3. ¼ cup rolled oats
4. 3 tablespoons finely chopped walnuts
Add in:
– ½ cup cold unsalted butter, cubed.
Rub the mixture with your fingertips until it becomes crumbly.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Spread the apple mixture evenly in the prepared dish. Sprinkle the crumble topping generously over the apples.
Bake for 35 to 40 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the apples are tender.
Step 5: Serve
Let cool slightly before serving. This Mini Apple Walnut Crumble is best enjoyed warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream!
How to Serve Mini Apple Walnut Crumble
Serving Mini Apple Walnut Crumble can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy this warm and cozy treat.
Pair with Ice Cream
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The classic choice that adds creaminess and balances the warmth of the crumble.
- Caramel Ice Cream: Adds a rich, sweet twist to the dish, enhancing the flavors of apple and walnut.
Add Whipped Cream
- Homemade Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, it complements the warm crumble beautifully.
- Flavored Whipped Cream: Try adding a hint of cinnamon or vanilla for an extra layer of flavor.
Serve with Fresh Fruit
- Sliced Pears: Their juicy sweetness pairs well with the spices in the crumble.
- Berries: Fresh strawberries or raspberries can provide a tart contrast to the sweet apple filling.
Create a Dessert Parfait
- Layered Dessert: Alternate layers of Mini Apple Walnut Crumble with yogurt or whipped cream for a delightful parfait experience.
How to Perfect Mini Apple Walnut Crumble
Perfecting your Mini Apple Walnut Crumble is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dessert turns out just right.
- Select the Right Apples: Use tart varieties like Granny Smith for a balance of sweetness and acidity.
- Adjust Sweetness: Taste your apple mixture before baking; you can always add more sugar if needed.
- Don’t Overmix Topping: When combining ingredients for the crumble topping, mix just until crumbly for the best texture.
- Use Cold Butter: Keep butter cold when making the crumble topping to achieve a flaky and crispy texture.
- Check for Doneness: Look for a golden-brown color on top and tender apples when baking—this ensures perfect results.
- Let It Cool Slightly: Allowing it to cool before serving helps set the filling and makes it easier to serve.
Best Side Dishes for Mini Apple Walnut Crumble
Mini Apple Walnut Crumble pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some tasty options to consider serving alongside your dessert.
- Cheese Plate: A selection of sharp cheeses, like cheddar or gouda, can complement the sweetness of the crumble.
- Spiced Nuts: Roasted spiced nuts add crunch and enhance the autumn vibe of your meal.
- Cinnamon Sugar Pita Chips: These crispy snacks offer a sweet crunch that matches well with the crumble’s flavors.
- Hot Chocolate: A warm cup can create a cozy atmosphere, perfect for enjoying a slice of crumble.
- Chai Tea: The warming spices in chai tea harmonize beautifully with the flavors in your dessert.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad provides a light contrast and balances out the richness of the crumble.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making your Mini Apple Walnut Crumble, avoiding common mistakes can enhance the final result and ensure a delicious treat.
- Using the wrong apple variety: Not all apples are created equal. Granny Smith apples are ideal for their tartness and firmness, which hold up well during baking.
- Skipping the lemon juice: This ingredient is essential as it prevents the apples from browning and adds a bright flavor. Always include it for a fresh taste.
- Overmixing the crumble topping: If you overwork the butter and flour mixture, you may end up with a dense topping. Mix just until crumbly for that perfect texture.
- Not letting it cool before serving: Serving immediately can lead to a messy presentation. Allow the crumble to cool slightly to set properly.
- Ignoring baking time: Baking times can vary by oven. Keep an eye on your crumble; it should be golden brown on top and bubbly around the edges.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Mini Apple Walnut Crumble in an airtight container.
- It will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Mini Apple Walnut Crumble
- Wrap the crumble tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating Mini Apple Walnut Crumble
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Place a serving in a microwave-safe dish and heat for 30-60 seconds, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: Heat in a pan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Mini Apple Walnut Crumble?
Mini Apple Walnut Crumble is a delightful dessert featuring tender apples spiced with cinnamon and topped with a buttery walnut crumble. It’s perfect for any autumn gathering!
Can I make Mini Apple Walnut Crumble ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator or freezer. Just reheat before serving for optimal taste.
What can I serve with Mini Apple Walnut Crumble?
This crumble is delicious on its own but pairs wonderfully with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for added indulgence.
How do I customize my Mini Apple Walnut Crumble?
Feel free to add other fruits like pears or berries, or try different nuts such as pecans. Experimenting with spices like nutmeg can also enhance flavor!
Final Thoughts
The Mini Apple Walnut Crumble is not only cozy and comforting but also versatile enough to adapt to your personal taste. With simple ingredients, it’s perfect for gatherings or quiet evenings at home. Try adding your favorite fruits or spices for a unique twist!

Mini Apple Walnut Crumble
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the cozy essence of autumn with this Mini Apple Walnut Crumble. This delightful dessert features tender, cinnamon-spiced Granny Smith apples layered beneath a crunchy topping made from oats and walnuts. It’s straightforward to prepare, making it the ideal choice for family gatherings or a comforting evening at home. Serve it warm, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, to elevate your dessert experience. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday or simply enjoying a quiet night in, this crumble is sure to become a beloved favorite.
Ingredients
- 5 Granny Smith apples, peeled and thinly sliced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
- 3 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup rolled oats
- 3 tablespoons finely chopped walnuts
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish or small ramekins.
- In a large bowl, combine sliced apples, lemon juice, brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter. Mix well.
- In another bowl, combine flour, granulated sugar, rolled oats, and walnuts. Add cold butter and mix until crumbly.
- Layer the apple mixture in the prepared dish and sprinkle the crumble topping over it.
- Bake for 35 to 40 minutes until golden brown and bubbly. Let cool slightly before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup (120g)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 45mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: Use tart apples like Granny Smith for the best flavor balance. Experiment by adding different nuts or spices to customize your crumble. For added indulgence, serve with caramel sauce or flavored whipped cream.