Mary Berry Apple and Strawberry Crumble Recipe

This Mary Berry Apple and Strawberry Crumble Recipe is a wonderfully comforting British dessert made with tender apples, juicy strawberries, and a crisp buttery crumble topping. The sweet strawberries add a fresh fruity flavour that pairs beautifully with the soft baked apples and golden crumb. It is an easy recipe that is suitable for beginners and experienced bakers alike. From start to finish, the crumble takes around 1 hour to prepare and bake, making it perfect for a family dessert or weekend treat.

Ingredients

For the Fruit Filling

700g cooking apples, peeled, cored and sliced
300g fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
75g caster sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice

For the Crumble Topping

225g plain flour
150g cold unsalted butter, diced
100g light brown sugar
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

How to Make Mary Berry Apple and Strawberry Crumble Recipe

Prepare the oven: Preheat the oven to 200°C or 180°C fan. Place a shelf in the middle of the oven so the crumble bakes evenly and develops a golden topping.
Prepare the fruit filling: Place the sliced apples, strawberries, caster sugar and lemon juice into a large bowl. Toss gently until the fruit is evenly coated.
Fill the baking dish: Transfer the fruit mixture to a greased ovenproof baking dish and spread it into an even layer.
Make the crumble topping: Rub the butter into the flour using your fingertips until the mixture resembles fine breadcrumbs.
Add the sugar: Stir the brown sugar and cinnamon into the crumble mixture until evenly combined.
Assemble the crumble: Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the fruit. Do not press it down.
Bake: Place the dish into the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes until the topping is crisp and golden and the fruit is bubbling around the edges.
Cool slightly: Remove from the oven and leave to stand for 10 minutes before serving.

Tips for the Best Apple and Strawberry Crumble

How do I stop the crumble topping from becoming soggy?

Make sure the butter is cold and avoid covering the crumble while it is still warm. This helps maintain a crisp topping.

Which apples work best for crumble?

Bramley apples are ideal because they soften beautifully during baking and provide a pleasant tart flavour.

Can I make the crumble topping in advance?

Yes. Prepare the topping up to two days ahead and store it in the refrigerator until needed.

How do I get a golden crunchy topping?

Use light brown sugar and bake until the top is deeply golden. Avoid opening the oven door too often.

Serving Suggestions

Serve warm with traditional custard.
Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Enjoy with lightly whipped cream.
Pair with crème fraîche for a richer dessert.

Storage

Room Temperature

The crumble can sit at room temperature for up to 6 hours after baking before refrigeration is recommended.

Refrigerator

Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven before serving.

Freezing

Freeze baked crumble in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Defrost overnight in the refrigerator and reheat thoroughly before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 385 kcal
Carbohydrates: 54g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 17g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Sodium: 55mg

Nutritional values are approximate and may vary depending on the exact ingredients used.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, frozen strawberries can be used. Thaw and drain them first to prevent excess liquid in the filling.

Can I prepare the crumble ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the crumble several hours ahead and keep it refrigerated until ready to bake.

What apples are best for this crumble?

Bramley apples are the traditional choice, but Granny Smith apples also work well.

Can I freeze apple and strawberry crumble?

Yes, both baked and unbaked crumble can be frozen for up to three months when properly wrapped.