Jump to Recipe Print RecipeWalking into my kitchen on a chilly autumn day, I can almost hear the leaves crunching underfoot as the scents of cinnamon and nutmeg dance through the air. Nothing says cozy quite like a warm Spiced Cranberry Apple Crumble with Pecan Topping, and trust me, this delightful dessert comes together in just 15 minutes! Perfect for those moments when you crave something comforting yet impressively delicious, it combines tart cranberries and sweet apples under a crunchy pecan layer. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile, allowing for gluten-free and vegan options, making it a hit for everyone at the table. How about serving it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate autumn treat? Are you ready to whip up this delightful crumble and fill your home with irresistible aromas? Why is This Cranberry Apple Crumble Special? Comforting, Cozy Dessert: This Spiced Cranberry Apple Crumble wraps you in warmth, making it perfect for chilly evenings. Quick & Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep, you can have dessert ready in a flash! Flavorful Harmony: The tartness of cranberries pairs beautifully with sweet apples, all topped with crunchy pecans—an irresistible combination. Versatile Options: Easily adaptable for dietary needs such as gluten-free or vegan, making it a crowd-pleaser for everyone. Seasonal Delight: Embrace fall flavors with cinnamon and nutmeg, creating an aromatic experience that transforms your kitchen into a cozy haven. Served Warm: Enjoy it fresh from the oven, ideally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for that extra indulgence—think of it as a warm hug for your taste buds! Cranberry Apple Crumble Ingredients For the Filling • Cranberries – Adds tangy tartness; you can substitute with tart cherries or pomegranates for a delicious twist. • Apples – Brings sweetness and texture; choose a variety like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best results. For the Topping • Pecans – Provides a satisfying crunch; feel free to swap in walnuts if you prefer. • Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and moisture to the crumble; coconut sugar is a great healthier alternative. • Oats – Contributes to the crumble’s texture; use gluten-free oats for dietary needs. • Cinnamon – Infuses warmth and spice; it’s essential for that cozy flavor. • Nutmeg – Enhances the overall spice profile; use lightly to maintain balance. • Butter or Vegan Butter – Binds the topping together; a non-dairy version is perfect for vegan adaptations. This yummy Cranberry Apple Crumble With Pecan Topping is bound to be a favorite! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cranberry Apple Crumble With Pecan Topping Step 1: Prep the Fruit Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats up, wash and slice 2-3 sweet apples and combine them with 2 cups of fresh or frozen cranberries in a large mixing bowl. Toss the fruits together gently, so they are evenly mixed. Set this delicious fruit mixture aside while you prepare the topping. Step 2: Make the Crumble Topping In a separate bowl, combine 1 cup of oats, 1 cup of chopped pecans, ½ cup of brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and a pinch of nutmeg. Melt ½ cup of butter (or vegan butter) and pour it over the dry mixture. Use a fork to blend everything together until it resembles a crumbly texture. This crunchy topping will complement the layered fruits beautifully in your Cranberry Apple Crumble. Step 3: Assemble the Crumble Grab a greased 9×9-inch baking dish and evenly spread the fruit mixture across the bottom. Make sure the apples and cranberries are distributed well, so every bite is flavorful. After placing the fruit layer, sprinkle the prepared crumble topping generously over the fruit, ensuring it covers all the surfaces for that perfect, golden crunch. Step 4: Bake the Crumble Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on it as it bakes; the filling should bubble, and the topping will turn a lovely golden brown. The heavenly aroma of the spices and fruits will fill your kitchen, making it hard to wait for it to be ready. Step 5: Cool and Serve Once your Cranberry Apple Crumble is baked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. This cooling step allows the juices to settle, making it easier to serve. Enjoy it warm, ideally topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra cozy treat! Make Ahead Options Preparing your Spiced Cranberry Apple Crumble with Pecan Topping ahead of time is a fantastic way to save precious minutes during busy weeknights or holiday gatherings! You can prepare the fruit filling (2-3 peeled and sliced apples mixed with 2 cups of cranberries) up to 24 hours in advance; just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. The crumble topping can be made up to 3 days ahead—simply combine the oats, pecans, brown sugar, and spices, then refrigerate it until you are ready to bake. When you’re ready to serve, layer the fruit in your baking dish, sprinkle the topping on, and bake as directed. This method ensures your crumble is just as delicious while saving you valuable prep time! How to Store and Freeze Cranberry Apple Crumble Fridge: Store your Cranberry Apple Crumble in an airtight container for up to 3-5 days. This keeps it fresh and ready to enjoy whenever the craving strikes. Freezer: If you have leftovers, freeze the crumble for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. Reheating: To reheat, simply thaw the crumble overnight in the fridge and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, until heated through. Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the filling and topping separately and refrigerate them. Assemble and bake fresh when you’re ready, ensuring optimal texture and flavor! Expert Tips for Cranberry Apple Crumble Perfect Topping Texture: Make sure your butter is soft, not melted. This helps create a crispy topping when baked, ensuring your Cranberry Apple Crumble is delightful and crunchy. Flavor Infusion: Allow the fruit mixture to sit for about 10 minutes after mixing. This lets the spices meld beautifully, enhancing the flavor of your crumble. Monitor Baking: Keep a close eye on your crumble in the last few minutes of baking. Oven temperatures can vary, and you want to prevent burning while achieving that golden crust. Fruit Variations: Don’t hesitate to switch up the fruit! Using tart cherries or pomegranates can provide a unique twist to your Cranberry Apple Crumble with Pecan Topping, catering to your seasonal cravings. Gluten-Free Adaptations: For gluten-sensitive guests, opt for gluten-free oats and ensure your brown sugar is free from additives, allowing everyone to enjoy this cozy dessert. Cranberry Apple Crumble With Pecan Topping Variations Feel free to let your creativity shine and customize your crumble for the perfect cozy dessert experience. Fruit Swap: Substitute tart cherries or pomegranates for cranberries for a refreshing twist in flavor. Nut Alternatives: Use walnuts instead of pecans for a slightly different taste and texture—you might even blend both for added crunch! Sugar Substitution: Switch brown sugar for coconut sugar for a healthier touch without sacrificing sweetness. Oat Choices: For texture, try almond flour or ground oats instead of rolled oats; both can lend a unique flavor and consistency to the topping. Vegan Version: Replace butter with vegan butter or applesauce to create a delightful dairy-free dessert that everyone can enjoy. Spice it Up: Add a pinch of allspice or ginger to the filling for an extra flavor kick; it will transform the cozy essence into a warm, spiced sensation. Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh sage or rosemary into the topping for a sophisticated herbal note that elevates the classic dessert. Heated Twist: Add a touch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a surprising heat, balancing the sweetness and adding a delightful zing. And don’t forget! This crumble pairs wonderfully with a scoop of ice cream or a drizzle of cream. If you’re interested in exploring more flavors, check out my Baked Smashed Potatoes for a savory side or indulge in the sweet notes of a Blueberry Crumble Cheesecake for another delightful dessert! What to Serve with Spiced Cranberry Apple Crumble With Pecan Topping The warmth and inviting spices of this delicious dessert set the perfect scene for a cozy autumn evening filled with shared smiles and heartwarming flavors. Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic companion that adds a creamy contrast to the crunchy topping, making each bite even more indulgent. Whipped Cream: Light and airy, it transforms this crumble into an elegant dessert, effortlessly complementing the warm spices and fruit. Spiced Hot Cider: Invigorating and fragrant, this drink enhances the seasonal flavors, creating a delightful pairing that warms you from the inside out. Sweet Riesling: A chilled glass brings a touch of sweetness that harmonizes beautifully with the tart cranberries, enhancing the fruitiness of the dish. Cinnamon Sugar Tortilla Chips: Crunchy and sweet, they add a fun texture that contrasts with the soft fruit and crumble, perfect for a playful appetizer. Pumpkin Pie: For those who appreciate tradition, serving a slice alongside this crumble maintains that autumnal theme, satisfying your dessert cravings. Ginger Tea: The spicy warmth of ginger tea rounds out the meal with a soothing finish, making it an ideal drink for chilly nights. Delight in how these pairings elevate the already delicious Spiced Cranberry Apple Crumble with Pecan Topping into an unforgettable dining experience! Cranberry Apple Crumble With Pecan Topping Recipe FAQs What type of apples are best for this recipe? I recommend using sweet varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for balancing the tartness of the cranberries. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider trying Fuji or Gala apples, which bring a sweetness that pairs beautifully with the flavors. How do I store the leftover crumble? Absolutely! Store your Cranberry Apple Crumble in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-5 days. This makes it easy to grab a slice whenever you want a cozy dessert. Just make sure it’s completely cool before sealing it up so it maintains its deliciousness. Can I freeze the crumble? Yes, you can! To freeze your Cranberry Apple Crumble, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to protect it from freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat it in the oven! What if my crumble topping is too wet? If you find that your crumble topping is too wet, it’s often due to melted butter instead of softened butter. To remedy this, simply prepare a new topping mixture. Make sure that you start with softened butter, which should be pliable but still cool. Rub the butter into the dry ingredients until crumbly and spreadable. Are there gluten-free options for this recipe? Very! To make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute regular oats with certified gluten-free oats and ensure that the brown sugar you’re using is free from additives that may contain gluten. This way, everyone can enjoy the warm, cozy flavors of your Cranberry Apple Crumble! Cranberry Apple Crumble With Pecan Topping for Cozy Nights This Cranberry Apple Crumble with Pecan Topping combines tart cranberries and sweet apples under a crunchy pecan layer. Perfect comfort dessert for chilly nights. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsCooling Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 55 minutes mins Servings: 8 slicesCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 250 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Filling2-3 pieces sweet apples such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries substitute with tart cherries or pomegranates if desiredFor the Topping1 cup oats use gluten-free oats for dietary needs1 cup chopped pecans can substitute with walnuts½ cup brown sugar coconut sugar is a healthier alternative1 teaspoon cinnamon essential for cozy flavora pinch nutmeg use lightly to maintain balance½ cup butter or vegan butter melted to bind the topping Equipment Mixing bowlBaking dishOven Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Wash and slice 2-3 apples and combine with 2 cups of cranberries in a bowl.In a separate bowl, mix 1 cup oats, 1 cup pecans, ½ cup brown sugar, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and a pinch of nutmeg. Melt ½ cup butter and mix with dry ingredients.Spread the fruit mixture in a greased 9x9-inch baking dish. Evenly cover with the crumble topping.Bake for 25-30 minutes until filling is bubbly and topping is golden brown.Let cool for 10 minutes, then serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 3gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 120mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 3gSugar: 15gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 1mg NotesEnsure butter is soft for perfect topping texture. Allow fruit mixture to rest to enhance flavor. Monitor closely while baking to prevent burning. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!