There is something incredibly comforting about a warm fruit crumble that blends the natural sweetness of pears and apples with a crisp, crunchy topping. This Pear & Apple Breakfast Crumble Recipe brings together simple, wholesome ingredients to create a breakfast that’s both nourishing and indulgent. It’s perfect for cozy mornings when you want something that feels like a treat but fuels you for the day ahead. The juicy fruit combined with the subtly spiced, oat-based topping offers the perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it a breakfast favorite you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All the ingredients in this Pear & Apple Breakfast Crumble Recipe are straightforward and easy to find, but each plays an essential role in building the delicious layers of flavor and texture. From the fresh fruit that adds natural sweetness and juiciness to the crunchy nuts and oats that give a satisfying bite, every element contributes something unique.
- 2 ripe pears (peeled, cored, and chopped): Provides juiciness and a mild, sweet flavor that pairs beautifully with apples.
- 2 medium apples (peeled, cored, and chopped): Adds a crisp, tart contrast to balance the pears.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Keeps the fruit bright and prevents browning while adding a hint of tang.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Brings warmth and a comforting spice note.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds a subtle, nutty depth to the fruit filling.
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup: Natural sweetness to enhance the fruit without overpowering it.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors with a sweet, fragrant touch.
- 1/2 cup rolled oats: Creates the crumbly topping’s hearty texture.
- 1/4 cup almond flour: Adds moisture and a delicate nutty flavor to the crumble topping.
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans: Gives crunch and depth to the topping.
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil (melted): Binds the crumble topping and adds subtle richness.
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup (for topping): Sweetens and caramelizes the crumble during baking.
- Pinch of salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavors throughout.
How to Make Pear & Apple Breakfast Crumble Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Fruit
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, prepare your fruit by peeling, coring, and chopping the pears and apples into bite-sized pieces. Toss them in a large bowl with lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. The lemon juice will keep your fruit vibrant, and the spices will infuse the mixture with cozy autumn vibes. Stir everything until the fruit is nicely coated.
Step 2: Transfer the Fruit Mixture
Lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish and transfer the spiced fruit mixture to it. Spread it out evenly so that it bakes uniformly and every bite gets that perfect balance of soft fruit and crisp topping.
Step 3: Prepare the Crumble Topping
In a separate bowl, combine the rolled oats, almond flour, chopped nuts, melted coconut oil, one tablespoon of maple syrup, and a pinch of salt. Use your fingers or a fork to mix everything together until it forms a crumbly texture. This topping is the magic that balances the softness of the fruit with a golden, slightly crispy finish.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the fruit layer. Pop your dish into the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the fruit is tender and bubbling gently around the edges, and the topping is beautifully golden brown. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving so it sets nicely.
How to Serve Pear & Apple Breakfast Crumble Recipe
Garnishes
A warm crumble is divine on its own, but adding garnishes takes it to the next level. Try a dollop of creamy yogurt, whether dairy or plant-based, to add a tangy contrast, or a drizzle of extra maple syrup for an indulgent touch. A sprinkle of toasted nuts or a pinch of cinnamon on top adds an inviting aroma and texture that your guests will love.
Side Dishes
While this crumble can certainly shine as a star on its own, pairing it with fresh fruit salad or a glass of chilled almond milk makes for a complete, refreshing morning meal. For a heartier breakfast, serve alongside scrambled tofu or your favorite vegan sausage to balance sweetness with protein.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to add some flair, try serving the crumble in individual ramekins for a charming touch, especially for breakfast gatherings. You could also layer it in a glass with yogurt and granola for a beautiful parfait-style presentation, which turns your Pear & Apple Breakfast Crumble Recipe into an elegant yet simple breakfast treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The crumble topping may soften a bit, but reheating brings back its crisp charm. Just cover loosely to prevent it drying out.
Freezing
This Pear & Apple Breakfast Crumble Recipe freezes wonderfully. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat for a freshly baked taste without any compromise in texture.
Reheating
Reheat your crumble in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 10-15 minutes to revive the crunchy topping and warm the fruit filling. Microwaving works in a pinch but may soften the topping too much. If baking isn’t an option, pop it under the broiler for a couple of minutes to crisp up the top again.
FAQs
Can I use different fruits in this Pear & Apple Breakfast Crumble Recipe?
Absolutely! While pears and apples are classic for their complementary flavors and textures, you can substitute or add other fruits like berries, peaches, or plums depending on what’s in season or your preference.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe can be gluten-free if you use certified gluten-free rolled oats and almond flour. Always double-check your ingredient labels to be sure.
Can I make this crumble nut-free?
Yes! Simply omit the walnuts or pecans and substitute almond flour with oat flour or whole wheat flour, depending on your dietary needs. Sunflower seeds make a great crunchy alternative if you want some texture.
How sweet is this breakfast crumble? Can I adjust the sweetness?
The natural sweetness comes from the fruit and maple syrup, but you can adjust the level to your liking by adding more or less maple syrup, or by choosing sweeter or tarter apple varieties.
Can I prepare this recipe the night before?
You can prep the fruit mixture and topping separately the night before and keep them refrigerated. Assemble and bake fresh in the morning for the best texture and flavor. This saves time and still delivers the deliciousness you expect.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a wholesome, cozy breakfast that feels both indulgent and nourishing, you’re going to adore this Pear & Apple Breakfast Crumble Recipe. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate and makes mornings so much brighter. Whether you’re cooking for family or just treating yourself, this recipe is a wonderful way to start the day with a smile. Give it a try—you won’t regret it!
Print
Pear & Apple Breakfast Crumble Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Enjoy a warm and wholesome Pear & Apple Breakfast Crumble that combines tender fruit with a crunchy oat and nut topping. This vegan and gluten-free recipe is perfect for a healthy breakfast or a comforting dessert, bursting with fall flavors like cinnamon, nutmeg, and maple syrup.
Ingredients
Fruit Mixture
- 2 ripe pears (peeled, cored, and chopped)
- 2 medium apples (peeled, cored, and chopped)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Topping
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/4 cup almond flour
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil (melted)
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup (for topping)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking the crumble evenly.
- Prepare fruit mixture: In a large bowl, combine the chopped pears and apples with lemon juice, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, 2 tablespoons maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Toss well to coat all the fruit with the spices and flavorings.
- Assemble fruit layer: Transfer the coated fruit mixture into a lightly greased 8×8-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly to form the base of the crumble.
- Make crumble topping: In a separate bowl, mix rolled oats, almond flour, chopped nuts, melted coconut oil, 1 tablespoon maple syrup, and a pinch of salt. Stir until the mixture becomes crumbly and evenly combined.
- Top the fruit: Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the fruit layer in the baking dish, covering all areas for a consistent crunch.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the fruit is tender and the topping turns golden brown and crisp.
- Cool and serve: Remove from the oven and let the crumble cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm, optionally with yogurt or plant-based milk.
Notes
- You can substitute almond flour with oat flour or whole wheat flour to suit your preference.
- For a nut-free version, omit the nuts or replace them with sunflower seeds for crunch.
- Serve the crumble with a dollop of yogurt or a splash of plant-based milk to add creaminess.
