Save Mini Apple Oatmeal Crumble Cups are my secret weapon whenever I want to impress brunch guests or give my family a comforting treat without spending hours in the kitchen. These adorable cups are packed with tender orchard apples, kissed with cinnamon, and finished with a golden oat crunch ideal for cozy mornings or sweet snacks.
I discovered these on a snowy afternoon stuck inside with restless kids. They dove in on the warm aroma alone and now ask for crumble cups whenever apples appear in the fruit basket.
Ingredients
- Fresh apples: The star of the show Look for firm and crisp varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp Peel and dice for the best texture
- Old fashioned rolled oats: Provide a hearty texture and nutty flavor Choose whole oats for chewiness and skip the instant ones
- Brown sugar: Infuses deep caramel sweetness and helps the topping get a good crunch Use fresh soft brown sugar for easy mixing
- Unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps the crumble turn golden Select high quality butter for the best taste
- All purpose flour: Gives structure to the topping Measure with care and avoid packing for tenderness
- Ground cinnamon: Brings out apple flavor Use fresh aromatic cinnamon for warmth
- Lemon juice: Balances sweetness and keeps apples bright Use freshly squeezed for the freshest flavor
- Salt: Elevates all the flavors in both filling and topping Go for sea salt for subtle depth
Instructions
- Prepare the Apple Filling:
- Toss diced apples with brown sugar cinnamon lemon juice and a pinch of salt in a mixing bowl Coat until every piece glistens and let rest for ten minutes so juices meld
- Make the Oatmeal Crumble:
- Blend rolled oats flour brown sugar salt and softened butter in a separate bowl using your fingertips until the mixture becomes chunky and slightly moist This hands on method lets you feel when the butter is evenly dispersed
- Fill the Muffin Cups:
- Grease a muffin tin well Preferably use a baking spray Scatter a spoonful of apple mixture into each cup pressing lightly to fill the base three quarters of the way for best results
- Top With Crumble:
- Sprinkle a generous layer of the oat mixture over each apple filled cup Pat gently so bits adhere but don’t press too tight for a light finished topping
- Bake:
- Place the pan in the center of a preheated oven at three hundred seventy five degrees Bake for twenty two to twenty six minutes Watch for bubbling apple juices and a deeply golden top as cues for doneness
- Cool and Serve:
- Let cups rest in the pan for ten minutes after baking Loosen edges with a butter knife and transfer to a wire rack Serve warm or at room temperature for the ultimate crumbly experience
Save My go to ingredient is a tart Granny Smith apple I grew up snacking on these straight from my grandma’s orchard Each bite takes me back to weekends spent peeling and dicing apples together for desserts.
Storage Tips
Mini crumble cups keep well in an airtight container for three days at room temperature For longer storage refrigerate them and enjoy for up to a week Just a quick spin in the microwave makes them soft and fragrant again
Ingredient Substitutions
Try pears or peaches for a tasty twist if apples run short Sub whole wheat flour for a nutty hint or switch to coconut oil in place of butter if you prefer dairy free Treat yourself to chopped walnuts in the crumble for even more crunch
Serving Suggestions
Serve a warm cup with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or dollop of Greek yogurt They’re perfect paired with brunch eggs and a pot of spiced tea
Cultural History
Apple desserts are cozy classics in North America Often made for holiday gatherings and chilly months This single serve version takes inspiration from years spent watching family share giant pans of crisp so now everyone gets their own
Seasonal Adaptations
Swap apples for rhubarb in spring for a tangy kick Add chopped pecans in autumn for extra richness Use a sprinkle of ginger along with cinnamon for holiday flavors
Success Stories
Friends text me photos every time they bake these at home One even made them for a baby shower brunch she said guests gushed over the perfect crumb The best part is you can adjust spice or topping to suit family favorites
Freezer Meal Conversion
These cups are perfect for freezing Let them cool fully then move to a freezer bag They heat up quick in the oven or microwave and taste fresh baked
Save No matter the season this recipe makes a sweet bite that feels just a bit special Every time I bake a batch I’m grateful for a treat that’s easy to share and always a hit
Kitchen Guide
- → What type of apples work best?
Firm, tart varieties like Granny Smith offer a nice balance of sweetness and texture.
- → Can I use instant oats?
Rolled oats are ideal for structure, but instant oats can be substituted for a softer crumble.
- → How to store leftover cups?
Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
- → Can these be made gluten-free?
Swap out regular flour for gluten-free blends and ensure your oats are certified gluten-free.
- → Recommended serving suggestions?
Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or drizzle of caramel for extra indulgence.
- → Can I add nuts or raisins?
Chopped walnuts, pecans, or raisins can be added to the oat mixture for extra flavor and texture.