As the cool winds of autumn set in, there’s nothing more comforting than the sweet and spicy aroma of baked apples, cinnamon, and a creamy topping. Imagine a warm, delightful dessert that’s not only pleasing to the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. This Baked Apple Crumble on Cinnamon Cream is exactly that—a perfect blend of textures and flavors, served in an elegant glass to create a treat that feels both sophisticated and homely. The contrast between the soft, spiced apples, crunchy streusel topping, and velvety cinnamon cream makes each spoonful a delicious experience.
PrintCrispy, Creamy, Irresistible: Baked Apple Crumble with Cinnamon Cream in a Glass
As the cool winds of autumn set in, there’s nothing more comforting than the sweet and spicy aroma of baked apples, cinnamon, and a creamy topping. Imagine a warm, delightful dessert that’s not only pleasing to the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. This Baked Apple Crumble on Cinnamon Cream is exactly that—a perfect blend of textures and flavors, served in an elegant glass to create a treat that feels both sophisticated and homely. The contrast between the soft, spiced apples, crunchy streusel topping, and velvety cinnamon cream makes each spoonful a delicious experience.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: European
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Streusel Topping
The streusel topping, the crispy crown of this dessert, is made from just four ingredients: butter, flour, sugar, and vanilla sugar. The butter adds richness, while the sugar balances the slight bitterness of the vanilla and the flour ensures that the streusel holds its crumbly texture when baked. A sprinkle of cinnamon, though optional, brings a subtle warmth that ties in perfectly with the baked apples. This topping, when baked, transforms into a golden, slightly crispy crumble that gives the dessert its satisfying texture contrast.
Baked Apple Compote
The star of this dessert is the baked apple compote. The apples are the base of this dessert, and their sweetness pairs wonderfully with the warmth of cinnamon and the subtle spice of star anise. You can use a mix of apples depending on your taste; tart apples like Granny Smith provide a nice balance to the sweet cream and sugary topping, while sweeter varieties like Gala or Fuji can add a softer, sweeter base. The addition of orange juice enhances the natural fruitiness of the apples, while the drop of bitter almond oil adds an intriguing, slightly nutty flavor that elevates the overall taste. The apples soften just enough during roasting to break apart slightly while maintaining a satisfying bite, making them the perfect foundation for this dessert.
Cinnamon Cream
The cinnamon cream is the finishing touch that makes this dessert so irresistible. Made with quark, a soft, fresh cheese, and whipped cream, this layer has a luxurious, smooth texture. The combination of vanilla extract and cinnamon adds aromatic warmth to the cream, while the powdered sugar brings a gentle sweetness. The cream holds its shape beautifully in the glass, providing a soft base that perfectly complements the baked apple compote and the crunchy streusel topping.
Instructions
1. Making the Streusel Topping
Start by preheating your oven to 175°C (150°C for fan-assisted ovens). The streusel topping is quick and easy to prepare—simply mix the butter, sugar, flour, and vanilla sugar together. Use your fingers to rub the mixture until it resembles breadcrumbs. If you don’t have a food processor, don’t worry; you can easily do this by hand. Once the mixture is crumbly, spread it evenly on a baking tray lined with parchment paper and bake for 15 minutes or until golden. The streusel should form a crispy, sweet topping that will add a delightful crunch to your dessert.
2. Preparing the Apple Compote
While the streusel is baking, it’s time to prepare the apple compote. Begin by peeling and coring your apples. Cut them into small chunks and toss them with lemon juice to prevent browning. Add the cinnamon stick and star anise to the apples, and pour in the orange juice. Stir in the brown sugar and a drop of almond oil to enhance the flavors. Roast the apples in the oven for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally. The apples should soften but still retain some texture. Once done, let the compote cool and refrigerate until you’re ready to assemble the dessert.
3. Whipping the Cinnamon Cream
To create the cinnamon cream, whip the heavy cream until it forms stiff peaks. Then, gently fold in the quark, which will give the cream a smooth, creamy texture. Stir in the cinnamon, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract, ensuring everything is well combined. Once the cream is perfectly smooth, refrigerate it until you’re ready to serve. The cinnamon cream should be thick enough to hold its shape but still light and airy, making it the perfect contrast to the warm, spiced apples.
4. Assembling the Dessert
Now comes the fun part—assembling the dessert in glasses. Start by spooning the cinnamon cream into the bottom of each glass. Then, layer the baked apple compote on top, making sure to spoon some of the syrupy juices over the apples for extra flavor. Finally, sprinkle the crunchy streusel topping over the apples, ensuring a generous layer of the sweet crumble. If desired, you can garnish with toasted almond flakes for an extra touch of elegance. Once assembled, refrigerate the dessert until ready to serve. This will allow the flavors to meld together beautifully and ensure that the cream stays chilled.
Notes
Apple Variations
While the recipe calls for a classic apple compote, you can experiment with different types of apples to create your own variation. If you prefer a sweeter apple base, try using Red Delicious or Fuji apples. For a more tart flavor, Granny Smith apples are an excellent choice. If you want to add a unique twist, consider mixing apples with pears or even quinces for a more complex flavor profile.
Dairy-Free or Vegan Options
If you’re looking for a dairy-free or vegan alternative, you can substitute the cream cheese with a plant-based yogurt or coconut cream. Instead of butter, you can use coconut oil or a plant-based margarine. For the cream topping, try using a non-dairy whipping cream, such as coconut cream or a soy-based option.
Gluten-Free Option
For a gluten-free version, you can replace the all-purpose flour in the streusel topping with a gluten-free flour blend. Just be sure to check that all other ingredients are certified gluten-free as well.
Whether you’re hosting a fall gathering or simply craving a cozy treat to enjoy at home, this dessert is guaranteed to leave a lasting impression. It’s the kind of dessert that invites you to slow down and savor every bite, making it the perfect way to celebrate the comforting flavors of the season. In this article, we will guide you through the step-by-step process of creating this indulgent treat. We’ll break down the ingredients, describe the flavors and textures, and provide some tips on how you can customize the recipe to suit your preferences. Let’s dive into this delicious adventure!
Ingredients Breakdown: A Symphony of Flavors and Textures
Streusel Topping
The streusel topping, the crispy crown of this dessert, is made from just four ingredients: butter, flour, sugar, and vanilla sugar. The butter adds richness, while the sugar balances the slight bitterness of the vanilla and the flour ensures that the streusel holds its crumbly texture when baked. A sprinkle of cinnamon, though optional, brings a subtle warmth that ties in perfectly with the baked apples. This topping, when baked, transforms into a golden, slightly crispy crumble that gives the dessert its satisfying texture contrast.
Baked Apple Compote
The star of this dessert is the baked apple compote. The apples are the base of this dessert, and their sweetness pairs wonderfully with the warmth of cinnamon and the subtle spice of star anise. You can use a mix of apples depending on your taste; tart apples like Granny Smith provide a nice balance to the sweet cream and sugary topping, while sweeter varieties like Gala or Fuji can add a softer, sweeter base. The addition of orange juice enhances the natural fruitiness of the apples, while the drop of bitter almond oil adds an intriguing, slightly nutty flavor that elevates the overall taste. The apples soften just enough during roasting to break apart slightly while maintaining a satisfying bite, making them the perfect foundation for this dessert.
Cinnamon Cream
The cinnamon cream is the finishing touch that makes this dessert so irresistible. Made with quark, a soft, fresh cheese, and whipped cream, this layer has a luxurious, smooth texture. The combination of vanilla extract and cinnamon adds aromatic warmth to the cream, while the powdered sugar brings a gentle sweetness. The cream holds its shape beautifully in the glass, providing a soft base that perfectly complements the baked apple compote and the crunchy streusel topping.
Step-by-Step Instructions: Creating the Dessert
1. Making the Streusel Topping
Start by preheating your oven to 175°C (150°C for fan-assisted ovens). The streusel topping is quick and easy to prepare—simply mix the butter, sugar, flour, and vanilla sugar together. Use your fingers to rub the mixture until it resembles breadcrumbs. If you don’t have a food processor, don’t worry; you can easily do this by hand. Once the mixture is crumbly, spread it evenly on a baking tray lined with parchment paper and bake for 15 minutes or until golden. The streusel should form a crispy, sweet topping that will add a delightful crunch to your dessert.
2. Preparing the Apple Compote
While the streusel is baking, it’s time to prepare the apple compote. Begin by peeling and coring your apples. Cut them into small chunks and toss them with lemon juice to prevent browning. Add the cinnamon stick and star anise to the apples, and pour in the orange juice. Stir in the brown sugar and a drop of almond oil to enhance the flavors. Roast the apples in the oven for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally. The apples should soften but still retain some texture. Once done, let the compote cool and refrigerate until you’re ready to assemble the dessert.
3. Whipping the Cinnamon Cream
To create the cinnamon cream, whip the heavy cream until it forms stiff peaks. Then, gently fold in the quark, which will give the cream a smooth, creamy texture. Stir in the cinnamon, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract, ensuring everything is well combined. Once the cream is perfectly smooth, refrigerate it until you’re ready to serve. The cinnamon cream should be thick enough to hold its shape but still light and airy, making it the perfect contrast to the warm, spiced apples.
4. Assembling the Dessert
Now comes the fun part—assembling the dessert in glasses. Start by spooning the cinnamon cream into the bottom of each glass. Then, layer the baked apple compote on top, making sure to spoon some of the syrupy juices over the apples for extra flavor. Finally, sprinkle the crunchy streusel topping over the apples, ensuring a generous layer of the sweet crumble. If desired, you can garnish with toasted almond flakes for an extra touch of elegance. Once assembled, refrigerate the dessert until ready to serve. This will allow the flavors to meld together beautifully and ensure that the cream stays chilled.
Flavor, Texture, and Aroma: A Sensory Experience
As you take your first bite of this dessert, the combination of flavors and textures is simply delightful. The cinnamon cream is rich and smooth, with the perfect balance of sweet and aromatic cinnamon. The baked apple compote provides a burst of fruity goodness, with the orange juice enhancing the natural sweetness of the apples, while the spices give each bite a warm, cozy feeling. The streusel topping adds the perfect amount of crunch, making each spoonful a satisfying mix of soft and crispy textures. The aroma as the apple compote roasts in the oven is intoxicating—cinnamon, star anise, and orange fill your kitchen, creating the perfect atmosphere for a fall dessert. The final presentation in the glass allows you to see the layers of creamy, golden apples, and crispy crumble, adding an elegant touch to the dish.
Tips for Substitutions and Variations
Apple Variations
While the recipe calls for a classic apple compote, you can experiment with different types of apples to create your own variation. If you prefer a sweeter apple base, try using Red Delicious or Fuji apples. For a more tart flavor, Granny Smith apples are an excellent choice. If you want to add a unique twist, consider mixing apples with pears or even quinces for a more complex flavor profile.
Dairy-Free or Vegan Options
If you’re looking for a dairy-free or vegan alternative, you can substitute the cream cheese with a plant-based yogurt or coconut cream. Instead of butter, you can use coconut oil or a plant-based margarine. For the cream topping, try using a non-dairy whipping cream, such as coconut cream or a soy-based option.
Gluten-Free Option
For a gluten-free version, you can replace the all-purpose flour in the streusel topping with a gluten-free flour blend. Just be sure to check that all other ingredients are certified gluten-free as well.
Serving Suggestions
This dessert is versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. For a more decadent treat, top each serving with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. A drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of toasted almonds can also add an extra layer of flavor and elegance. For a more festive twist, you can add a small pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the apple compote or the cinnamon cream for added warmth. Serve this dessert at a dinner party, a fall gathering, or as a special treat for yourself and loved ones. Its balance of creamy, fruity, and crunchy elements makes it the perfect dessert to enjoy with a hot cup of tea or coffee.
Conclusion: A Cozy, Irresistible Dessert
This Baked Apple Crumble on Cinnamon Cream dessert is the epitome of comfort food, offering the perfect balance of flavors and textures. From the warm apple compote to the silky cinnamon cream and crunchy streusel, every bite is a delightful combination that will transport you straight into the heart of fall. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or indulging in a quiet evening at home, this dessert is sure to impress and satisfy. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and treat yourself to this delightful dessert in a glass.
