Instructions
1. **Prepare the Apple Filling:** Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, lemon juice, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves (if using). Sprinkle in the cornstarch and toss gently until the apples are evenly coated. Pour the apple mixture into an 8×8 inch (20×20 cm) baking dish.
2. **Make the Oat Topping:** In a separate bowl, combine the rolled oats, whole wheat flour, cinnamon, and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and use your fingertips or a pastry blender to cut the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Drizzle in the maple syrup and mix until just combined and crumbly.
3. **Assemble and Bake:** Evenly sprinkle the oat topping over the apple filling in the baking dish.
4. **Bake** for 35-45 minutes, or until the apple filling is bubbly and tender, and the oat topping is golden brown and crisp. If the topping starts to brown too quickly, you can loosely tent it with aluminum foil.
5. **Cool and Serve:** Allow the crumble to cool for at least 15-20 minutes before serving. This helps the filling set and prevents it from being too runny.
Short Tips
* **Apple Variety:** Don’t be afraid to mix and match! Using a combination of sweet and tart apples adds depth of flavor.
* **Don’t Overmix the Topping:** Overmixing can lead to a tough topping. Mix just enough until everything is combined and crumbly.
* **Serve Warm:** This crumble is best served warm, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of Greek yogurt, or a drizzle of extra maple syrup for an extra treat.
* **Storage:** Store leftover apple crumble in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
