Vanilla Bean Brown Sugar Crumble

Name: Vanilla Bean Brown Sugar Crumble
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 vanilla beans, split and scraped; 1 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup rolled oats; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 4 cups apples, peeled and sliced

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I adore the cozy warmth that comes from the kitchen when I bake this Vanilla Bean Brown Sugar Crumble. The combination of rich vanilla bean flavors and the sweet touch of brown sugar creates a delightful treat that’s hard to resist. Each bite offers a comforting sweetness, beautifully balanced by the buttery crumble topping. Whether served warm with a scoop of ice cream or simply on its own, it’s a dessert that often brings smiles to my kitchen table. I can't wait for you to try it!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-01T19:02:30.663Z

When I first tried making this Vanilla Bean Brown Sugar Crumble, I knew it would become a staple in my dessert roster. The complex flavors of the vanilla bean combined with the richness of brown sugar elevates a simple dessert into something spectacular. I love using fresh vanilla beans for this recipe as they provide a depth of flavor that extracts don’t quite match.

One of my favorite tips is to let the crumble rest for a few minutes after baking. This allows the flavors to meld and the topping to crisp up perfectly. Whether for a cozy night in or to impress guests at a gathering, this crumble never disappoints!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Decadent vanilla flavor paired with sweet brown sugar notes
Crispy topping that complements the melting filling perfectly
Easily customizable with fruits like apples or berries

Perfecting the Filling

Choosing the right apples is crucial for this crumble's success. Varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn offer a perfect balance of tartness and sweetness, which enhances the overall flavor. Peel and slice them evenly to ensure they cook uniformly. Tossing them with brown sugar not only sweetens but also draws out their juices, creating a syrup that complements the vanilla flavor beautifully. Letting the mixture sit for about 15-20 minutes allows the apples to release some moisture, adding depth to the filling.

When mixing the apples with sugar and vanilla seeds, be gentle; you want to coat the slices without mashing them. A light hand ensures they retain their texture during baking, resulting in tender but intact apple pieces. If your apples seem particularly dry, a splash of lemon juice can help add moisture and brightness without overpowering the vanilla beans.

Achieving the Ideal Crumble

The crumble topping is where the magic happens, offering that delightful contrast in texture. It’s essential to mix the flour, oats, and salt thoroughly before adding the melted butter. The butter should be warm but not hot to avoid cooking the flour, which can lead to a gummy texture. Once combined, the mixture should resemble coarse sand with varying sizes of crumbs. Aim for a balance of small flakes and larger clumps to create diverse textures when baked.

For a subtle spice twist, consider adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the crumble mixture. This can enhance the dish's warmth, particularly if you pair it with fall fruits. Remember, the topping should be generously layered on the apples, as it will shrink a bit during baking. Don't skimp; a thick layer yields that sought-after crunchy texture over a sweet, juicy filling.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create a delicious Vanilla Bean Brown Sugar Crumble:

Ingredients

2 vanilla beans, split and scraped
1 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup rolled oats
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
4 cups apples, peeled and sliced

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Vanilla Bean Brown Sugar Crumble:

Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine sliced apples with brown sugar, granulated sugar, and the seeds from the vanilla beans. Mix well and set aside to allow the apples to soften and soak in the flavors.

Make the Crumble Topping

In another bowl, mix together flour, oats, and salt. Add melted butter and remaining vanilla seeds; stir until crumbly. You want it to be a mix of small and slightly larger chunks.

Assemble the Crumble

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the apple mixture evenly in a baking dish. Sprinkle the crumble topping generously over the apples.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until the apples are bubbly and the crumble is golden brown. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Serve warm, optionally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, try adding a sprinkle of cinnamon into the apple filling or mix in some chopped nuts into the crumble for added crunch.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This crumble can easily be prepared ahead of time. If you want to do some prep, assemble the filling and topping separately and store them in the refrigerator for up to a day. When ready to bake, simply preheat the oven and combine them. This approach allows the flavors to meld while saving you time on busy days. Unbaked crumble can also be frozen; wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and foil for up to three months. Bake straight from frozen, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.

If you have leftover crumble, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for a few seconds or warm it in the oven until the topping regains its crispness, about 10 minutes at 350°F (175°C). This dessert's flavors tend to deepen and improve over time, making it an excellent candidate for make-ahead plans.

Serving Suggestions

While this Vanilla Bean Brown Sugar Crumble is delightful on its own, serving it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream enhances the experience. The creaminess of the ice cream beautifully balances the crumble's texture, and the chill contrasts wonderfully with the warm, spiced apples. A drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of toasted nuts on top can elevate your dessert presentation and add additional layers of flavor and texture.

For a fusion twist, try roasting some berries with the apples or adding diced pears to the mixture. These fruits work exceptionally well with the vanilla and brown sugar, offering another dimension of flavor. Additionally, using gluten-free oats and flour can easily cater to dietary preferences without sacrificing taste. This flexibility allows you to adapt the recipe while enjoying its comforting, classic essence.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen apples for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen apples. Just ensure they are thawed and drained of excess liquid before mixing them with the sugars.

→ What can I substitute for brown sugar?

You can use coconut sugar or a mixture of white sugar and molasses if you're looking for a brown sugar alternative.

→ How long will the crumble last in the fridge?

The crumble can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days when covered tightly.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and crumble topping separately and then assemble and bake it right before serving.