Name: Christmas crumble Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: British
Ingredients: 200g plain flour; Freshly grated nutmeg, to taste; 125g unsalted butter, cold; 2 tbsp golden caster sugar; 25g flaked almonds; 8 Bramley apples (about 700g), peeled, cored, and sliced; 200g mincemeat; 50g cranberry sauce; 50g light brown sugar; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1 tsp mixed spice; 6 tbsp brandy, divided; 300ml double cream

Jump to Recipe

If you’re searching for a dessert that perfectly captures the festive spirit with every spoonful, then this Christmas crumble is an absolute must-try. It brings together the warm, spiced flavors of mincemeat, cranberries, and brandy, layered beneath a golden, nutmeg-infused crumble topping that offers a delightful crunch. Every bite feels like a cozy celebration, making it the star of your holiday table and a wonderful way to end a Christmas meal with family and friends.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients for this Christmas crumble is simpler than you might expect, yet each component plays an essential role in creating its signature taste and texture. From the tart Bramley apples to the warming spices, every item contributes to an irresistible, festive flavor profile.

200g plain flour: The foundation of the crumble topping, providing that lovely crumbly texture that contrasts with the soft fruit.
Freshly grated nutmeg: Adds a subtle, aromatic warmth that lifts the crumble topping beautifully.
125g unsalted butter: Cold and cubed, it’s rubbed into the flour to create a deliciously buttery crumble layer.
2 tbsp golden caster sugar: Sweetens the crumble topping just enough, balancing the tartness of the apples and spiced filling.
25g flaked almonds: These provide a lovely crunch and a nutty undertone, enhancing the texture of the topping.
8 Bramley apples (about 700g): The star fruit of the dish, known for their tartness and ability to hold shape when cooked.
200g mincemeat: Brings rich, fruity, and spiced notes that scream Christmas in every bite.
50g cranberry sauce: Adds a sharp, tangy contrast that brightens up the filling.
50g light brown sugar: Adds caramel undertones and helps the filling bubble with a deep sweetness.
1 tsp cinnamon: Essential for that classic festive spice flavor that makes this crumble truly Christmas-worthy.
1 tsp mixed spice: A blend of spices that deepens the warmth and complexity of the filling.
6 tbsp brandy: Most of it enriches the fruit mixture, while a bit is whisked into the cream to drizzle over at the end.
300ml double cream: Whipped softly, it adds a luxurious, silky finish that balances the tangy fruit and crumbly topping.

How to Make Christmas crumble

Step 1: Prepare the Topping

Start by heating the oven to 180C/160C fan/gas 4. For that perfect crumble topping, combine the plain flour with a pinch of freshly grated nutmeg to add a warming aroma. Use cold hands to rub the unsalted butter into the flour until it resembles coarse breadcrumbs—this technique is key for the right texture. If you prefer, a quick pulse in a food processor works well too. Next, stir in the golden caster sugar and flaked almonds to add sweetness and a nutty crunch. Set this crumbly mixture aside while you prepare the fruit filling.

Step 2: Prepare the Fruit Filling

Peeling and coring the Bramley apples may take a little time, but trust me, it’s worth it. Slice them into wedges and pop them into a large ovenproof dish. Now comes the magic: fold in the mincemeat, cranberry sauce, light brown sugar, cinnamon, mixed spice, and 4 tablespoons of brandy. Mixing these ingredients creates a symphony of tangy, sweet, and spiced notes. The apples soak up the brandy and spices as they cook, turning into a luscious, fragrant filling.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

Sprinkle your prepared crumble topping evenly over the fruit mixture, ensuring every part is covered with those buttery crumbs. Slide the dish into the preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes until the topping turns a glorious golden brown and the filling is bubbling happily beneath. The aroma filling your kitchen is all the confirmation you need that this Christmas crumble is coming together beautifully.

Step 4: Whip the Brandy Cream

While the crumble bakes, combine the remaining 2 tablespoons of brandy with the double cream and whisk until soft peaks form. This brandy-infused cream is the ultimate indulgent accompaniment, adding a silky and boozy richness that pairs perfectly with the warm crumble.

How to Serve Christmas crumble

Garnishes

Adding a little extra flair to your Christmas crumble presentation is easy and rewarding. A sprinkle of toasted flaked almonds over the top just before serving adds texture and visual appeal. Alternatively, a light dusting of cinnamon or a few fresh cranberries scattered around the dish can enhance the festive flair, making your crumble as beautiful as it is tasty.

Side Dishes

This dessert shines on its own, but if you want to elevate your Christmas meal, pair the crumble with a glass of mulled wine or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside the brandy cream. The contrast between cold ice cream and warm crumble is a joy to the palate, while mulled wine echoes the spices in the dish beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re hosting a dinner party, consider serving individual portions in ramekins or small ovenproof dishes for a charming, personalized touch. You can even build a layered trifle by alternating layers of Christmas crumble with whipped cream and festive fruits for a striking and delicious centerpiece. These creative twists make your Christmas crumble a memorable dessert that everyone will be talking about.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Christmas crumble can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep the brandy cream separate and add it just before serving to maintain its whipped texture and flavor.

Freezing

If you want to prepare this festive treat in advance, Christmas crumble freezes wonderfully. Freeze it unbaked in the dish or portioned into individual containers for up to one month. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it’s piping hot and bubbling through.

Reheating

To reheat your Christmas crumble, pop it into a preheated oven at 160C fan for around 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through and the topping is crisp again. Avoid microwaving if possible, as reheating gently in the oven keeps the crumble texture intact and stops it from becoming soggy.

FAQs

Can I make the crumble topping ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the crumble topping a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. This saves time on the day and keeps the butter cold, which helps with that perfect crumbly texture when baked.

Is it necessary to use brandy in the Christmas crumble?

The brandy adds a lovely depth of flavor and warmth to the filling, but if you prefer to avoid alcohol, you can substitute with apple juice or orange juice for a milder taste. The crumble will still be delicious!

What are the best apples to use for this crumble?

Bramley apples are ideal because they hold their shape when cooked and provide a tart balance to the sweet mincemeat and sugars. If Bramleys aren’t available, Granny Smiths are a good alternative.

Can I use ready-made mincemeat for convenience?

Absolutely! Ready-made mincemeat works perfectly in this recipe and saves a lot of effort. Just ensure it’s good quality to get the best flavor in your Christmas crumble.

How should I serve the brandy cream?

Serve the whipped brandy cream on the side so everyone can add as much as they like. It’s delightful drizzled over warm crumble and adds a luscious, festive touch that makes each spoonful extra special.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about a Christmas crumble that brings the festive season to life on your plate. Bursting with spices, tangy fruit, and that unbeatable crumble topping, this dessert feels like a warm holiday hug. I can’t recommend enough giving it a try—whether for a family feast, a cozy night in, or a joyful gathering with friends, it’s guaranteed to become one of your treasured seasonal favorites.

Christmas crumble Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 17 reviews

Author: Lana
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

A festive and comforting Christmas crumble featuring spiced apples, mincemeat, and cranberry sauce, topped with a buttery almond crumble. Served warm with brandy-spiked whipped cream, it’s the perfect holiday dessert to share with family and friends.

Instructions

Prepare the oven and crumble topping: Preheat the oven to 180C/160C fan/gas mark 4. In a mixing bowl, combine the plain flour with a little freshly grated nutmeg. Using cold hands, rub the unsalted butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs. Alternatively, pulse briefly in a food processor for an even crumbly texture. Stir in the golden caster sugar and flaked almonds, then set the topping mixture aside.
Prepare the fruit filling: Peel, core, and slice the Bramley apples into wedges. Transfer the apple slices to a 25cm ovenproof dish. Add the mincemeat, cranberry sauce, light brown sugar, ground cinnamon, mixed spice, and 4 tablespoons of brandy. Stir well to combine all the ingredients evenly with the fruit.
Assemble and bake: Evenly sprinkle the prepared crumble topping over the fruit mixture in the dish. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the fruit is bubbling around the edges.
Prepare the brandy cream: While the crumble is baking, combine the double cream with the remaining 2 tablespoons of brandy in a mixing bowl. Whisk until soft peaks form, creating a light and aromatic whipped cream.
Serve: Once baked, remove the crumble from the oven and let it stand for 5 minutes to settle. Serve warm with the brandy cream on the side for a rich and festive finishing touch.

Notes

Use Bramley apples for their tartness and ability to hold shape when baked.
You can substitute brandy with rum or whiskey if preferred.
For a nut-free version, omit the flaked almonds in the topping.
Double cream can be replaced with whipping cream, but double cream yields a richer texture.
Ensure butter is cold when making the crumble topping for best crumbly texture.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: British