Crisp Orchard Apple Crumble

1. Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F, making sure to position the racks on the lowest and middle levels.

2. Prepare Baking Sheet

Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper to prepare for the crumble topping.

3. Mix Cornstarch and Lemon Juice

In a large bowl, stir together the cornstarch and lemon juice until the cornstarch is fully dissolved.

4. Add Apples and Spices

Add the cubed Granny Smith and Golden Delicious apples to the bowl. Sprinkle in the sugar, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg, and toss everything together until the apples are well coated with the mixture.

5. Transfer to Baking Dish

Transfer the apple mixture into an 8-inch square baking dish and cover it with aluminum foil.

6. Bake Apples and Crumble Topping

Place the covered dish on the lowest oven rack and put the rimmed baking sheet with the crumble topping on the middle rack. Bake both for about 20 minutes. You’ll know the topping is ready when it’s lightly browned and firm to the touch.

7. Remove and Stir Apples

After 20 minutes, remove the baking dish from the oven, uncover the apple filling, and give it a gentle stir to redistribute the ingredients evenly.

8. Add Crumble Topping

Carefully slide the pre-baked crumble topping over the apples, spreading it out and lightly packing it down. If necessary, break up any large pieces to ensure even coverage.

9. Increase Oven Temperature

Increase the oven temperature to 375°F.

10. Sprinkle Sugar and Bake

Sprinkle an additional tablespoon of sugar over the crumble for a touch of extra sweetness. Place the baking dish back in the oven, this time on the lowest rack, and bake for another 25 minutes. About halfway through, rotate the baking sheet to ensure even baking.

11. Cool and Serve

Once the crumble is golden and bubbly, transfer the baking dish to a wire rack to cool for about 15 minutes. This cooling period allows the juices to thicken slightly, making it easier to serve.