Apple Crumble Custard Slice recipe

There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, homemade dessert, and the Apple Crumble Custard Slice is no exception. This delightful combination of tart apples, creamy custard, and a crunchy crumble topping is perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to quiet evenings at home. The Apple Crumble Custard Slice not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also evokes nostalgia, reminiscent of cozy afternoons spent baking with loved ones.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, looking for a sweet treat to enjoy with your afternoon tea, or simply in the mood for some baking therapy, this recipe is sure to impress. Not only is it incredibly delicious, but it’s also easy to make, even for those who are new to baking. The layers of flavor and texture in this dessert create a heartwarming experience that will keep you coming back for more. So, let’s dive into the scrumptious world of Apple Crumble Custard Slice!

Ingredients

To create this delectable dessert, you’ll need the following ingredients:

2 large apples, peeled and sliced: Choose a tart variety, such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, for the best flavor contrast against the sweet custard.
1 cup custard (ready-made or instant): If you have the time, homemade custard will elevate the dish, but store-bought options are perfectly fine for convenience.
1 cup flour: All-purpose flour works well, but you can experiment with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor.
1/2 cup rolled oats: Adds texture and helps create a hearty crumble topping.
1/2 cup brown sugar: This adds sweetness and a rich, caramel-like flavor. You can use light or dark brown sugar depending on your preference.
1/2 cup cold butter, cubed: The cold butter is essential for creating that perfect crumbly texture in your topping.
1 tsp cinnamon: This warm spice complements the apples beautifully, enhancing their natural sweetness.
Pinch of salt: Balances the flavors and brings out the sweetness in the dish.

These ingredients are simple and easily accessible, making this recipe a convenient choice for any day.

Instructions

Follow these step-by-step instructions to prepare your Apple Crumble Custard Slice:

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial as it ensures the dessert cooks evenly, resulting in a beautifully baked slice.
Prepare the Dry Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Stir until well combined, ensuring the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Incorporate the Butter: Add the cubed cold butter to the dry mixture. Using your fingers or a pastry cutter, mix the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This might take a few minutes, and it’s okay if there are some larger pieces of butter remaining; they will melt and create delicious pockets of flavor.
Layer the Apples: Grease a baking dish (approximately 9×9 inches) with butter or cooking spray. Layer the sliced apples evenly across the bottom of the dish, ensuring they cover the base completely.
Add the Custard: Pour the custard over the apples, making sure they are well covered. The custard will soak into the apples as it bakes, adding moisture and creaminess to each slice.
Top with Crumble: Sprinkle the crumble mixture evenly over the custard layer. Make sure to distribute it well to ensure every bite has that delightful crunch.
Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on it towards the end of the baking time to prevent burning.
Cool and Serve: Allow the dessert to cool for at least 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. This cooling period allows the custard to set and makes serving easier.

Following these instructions will yield a delicious, perfectly baked dessert that will impress your family and friends.

Nutrition Facts

Understanding the nutritional content of your dessert is essential, especially if you’re mindful of your dietary intake. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect from each serving of Apple Crumble Custard Slice:

Calories: 220
Protein: 3g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fat: 10g
Fiber: 2g

This dessert is a balanced treat, offering a mix of carbohydrates, fats, and a small amount of protein. It’s a satisfying option for those occasional indulgences, providing a delightful blend of flavors while still being mindful of your nutritional choices.

How to Serve

The Apple Crumble Custard Slice is incrediblyThe Apple Crumble Custard Slice is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving, making it a delightful addition to any dessert table or family gathering. Here are a few detailed ideas to elevate your serving experience:

Warm and Fresh

One of the most delightful ways to serve the Apple Crumble Custard Slice is warm, straight from the oven. When you serve it warm, the flavors meld beautifully, creating an aromatic experience that fills the room with the comforting scents of baked apples and spices. The warm custard is luscious and creamy, while the crumble topping retains a slight crunch, providing a satisfying texture contrast. For an indulgent treat, consider pairing it with a scoop of high-quality vanilla ice cream. The cold creaminess of the ice cream perfectly complements the warmth of the slice, allowing the flavors to harmonize. Alternatively, you can opt for a dollop of freshly whipped cream, lightly sweetened and flavored with vanilla extract, to enhance the overall flavor profile.

Chilled

If you prefer a firmer texture, refrigerating the Apple Crumble Custard Slice is an excellent option. Chilling the dessert allows the custard to set more firmly, resulting in a slice that holds its shape beautifully when cut. This method provides a refreshing twist, particularly on warm days or at summer gatherings. To serve chilled, simply prepare the slice ahead of time and refrigerate for a few hours or overnight. When ready to serve, slice it into neat portions and consider pairing it with a light fruit compote or a berry coulis to add a tart contrast to the sweetness of the custard.

With a Drizzle

To elevate the presentation and flavor of the Apple Crumble Custard Slice, consider enhancing it with a drizzle of rich caramel or butterscotch sauce just before serving. The warm, gooey sauce adds an extra layer of sweetness and a touch of elegance to the dish. For a more sophisticated finish, you can make a simple homemade caramel sauce by melting sugar until golden and then adding cream and butter for a silky texture. Alternatively, store-bought sauces can also do the trick and save time. Drizzling the sauce over the slice allows it to soak into the crumble and custard, creating a decadent experience that will leave your guests raving.

Garnished

Presentation is key when it comes to serving desserts, and the Apple Crumble Custard Slice can be beautifully garnished to impress. A light dusting of powdered sugar not only adds a touch of sweetness but also creates a visually appealing contrast against the golden crumble topping. For an added layer of richness, a dollop of freshly whipped cream on the side can enhance the slice’s creamy texture. To introduce a pop of color and freshness, consider adding fresh mint leaves as a garnish. Their vibrant green hue and refreshing flavor can brighten the dish and make it look even more inviting. Edible flowers can also be an excellent way to add a touch of elegance, particularly for special occasions.

Creative Serving Suggestions

Beyond these traditional serving ideas, feel free to get creative! The Apple Crumble Custard Slice can be served in individual portions in small ramekins or jars, perfect for individual servings at parties or gatherings. This presentation allows for easy serving and adds a rustic charm to your dessert table. You could also layer pieces of the slice in a glass with alternating layers of custard, crumble, and fruit for a stunning parfait-style dessert.

Additionally, consider pairing the slice with a variety of drinks to complement the flavors. A warm spiced cider or a hot cup of tea can enhance the cozy, comforting feel of the dessert, while a glass of dessert wine or a light sparkling wine can offer a refreshing contrast.

No matter how you choose to serve it, the Apple Crumble Custard Slice is a versatile dessert that is guaranteed to please, ensuring that each guest enjoys a personalized and memorable experience.

Additional Tips

To ensure your Apple Crumble Custard STo ensure your Apple Crumble Custard Slice turns out perfectly every time, consider these additional tips:

Apple Variety

Choosing the right apple variety is crucial for achieving the perfect balance of flavor and texture in your Apple Crumble Custard Slice. Opt for apples that are firm and slightly tart, such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn. These varieties hold their shape well during baking, preventing the filling from becoming mushy, and their natural tartness complements the sweetness of the custard beautifully. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider experimenting with a blend of apples. Mixing, for instance, tart and sweet varieties like Gala or Fuji can yield a more complex flavor profile, enhancing the overall taste of your dessert.

Custard Choice

When it comes to custard, you have several options depending on your preference for convenience or homemade richness. You can use ready-made custard, which saves time and effort while still delivering a delicious result. Alternatively, if you prefer the satisfaction of making your own, consider preparing instant custard according to the package instructions for a quick solution. For those who want to elevate the dish, crafting your own custard from scratch is the way to go. Combine milk, sugar, and eggs, and cook over low heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon. This method allows you to control the sweetness and creaminess, making your dessert truly decadent.

Texture Variation

To enhance both the texture and flavor of your crumble topping, consider incorporating a handful of chopped nuts such as walnuts, pecans, or even almonds. Not only do these nuts provide a delightful crunch, but they also add an extra layer of richness that complements the soft apples and creamy custard. For an even more interesting twist, you might toast the nuts lightly before adding them to the crumble to amplify their flavor. Additionally, you can experiment with oats in your crumble mixture for added chewiness and a heartier texture, making the dessert more satisfying.

Spice it Up

If you’re a fan of warm spices, don’t hesitate to get creative with your crumble mixture. Adding a pinch of nutmeg or allspice can infuse your dessert with a cozy warmth that enhances the apple filling. For a refreshing twist, consider incorporating citrus zest—lemon or orange zest can brighten the flavors and add a hint of freshness that cuts through the richness of the custard. You can experiment with the amount to find the perfect balance that suits your palate.

Layering Flavors

One of the best aspects of making an Apple Crumble Custard Slice is the opportunity to layer flavors. Consider adding a spoonful of vanilla extract to your custard for a classic flavor boost, or try infusing your custard with other flavors such as almond extract or maple syrup. These additions can transform the overall taste profile, making your dessert uniquely yours.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes time to serve your Apple Crumble Custard Slice, presentation matters! Dust the top with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an elegant touch. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream to add a creamy contrast to the warm slice. For those who enjoy a bit of tartness, a side of crème fraîche or Greek yogurt can also be a delightful accompaniment.

Storage and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftovers (which is often unlikely!), store your Apple Crumble Custard Slice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To enjoy it again, reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds, or place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until warmed through. This ensures the custard maintains its creaminess and the crumble topping remains slightly crisp.

By following these tips, you can customize the dessert to suit your taste and ensure that your Apple Crumble Custard Slice is nothing short of spectacular every time you make it!

FAQs

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the Apple Crumble Custard Slice in advance. Simply bake it, allow it to cool, and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat it in the oven before serving to restore its crispy topping.

Is it possible to make this dessert gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure your oats are certified gluten-free. This will make the dessert suitable for those with gluten sensitivities, allowing everyone to enjoy a slice.

Can I use different fruits instead of apples?

Certainly! This recipe is versatile and works well with other fruits like pears, peaches, or berries. Keep in mind that the baking time may vary slightly depending on the fruit’s juiciness and texture; softer fruits may require less time in the oven.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing individual slices, which can be reheated in the oven as needed. To reheat, place the slice in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.

Conclusion

The Apple Crumble Custard Slice is a delightful dessert that brings together the comforting flavors of apples, custard, and a crispy crumble topping. With its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, it’s an ideal choice for both novice and experienced bakers. Whether enjoyed warm or chilled, this dessert is sure to become a favorite among your repertoire of sweet treats.

Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and indulge in the deliciousness of this Apple Crumble Custard Slice. Your taste buds will thank you, and your friends and family will be clamoring for seconds! Happy baking!