There’s nothing quite like a warm, bubbling fruit dessert, and this Nectarine Crumble Recipe hits all the right notes every single time. It’s a simple, comforting dish featuring juicy, tender nectarines nestled under a golden, crunchy oat and almond topping.
I find myself making this crumble often, especially when I need a hug in a bowl. It’s perfect for a cozy weeknight treat, but it also shines on the dessert table after a big family meal. Everyone always asks for seconds!
Why I Love This Recipe
Oh, let me count the ways I adore this Nectarine Crumble Recipe! First, it’s incredibly easy to whip up, even after a busy day. It’s so flavorful, the sweet nectarines burst with every bite. The crispy topping is simply divine! Plus, it always impresses guests, but feels just as comforting for a quiet evening. It’s truly a versatile dessert for any occasion!
Nectarine Crumble Recipe Ingredients
Gathering the ingredients for this Nectarine Crumble Recipe feels like preparing for a little kitchen magic. Each component plays a vital role in creating that perfect balance of sweet, tart, and crunchy bliss.
Here are the stars of our show, and why they’re so special:
- Underripe Nectarines: These are key! They hold their shape beautifully during baking, giving you lovely, tender fruit chunks.
- Granulated Sugar: Just enough to sweeten the nectarines without making them cloying.
- Lemon Zest and Juice: A little citrus brightens the fruit and cuts through the sweetness. It’s like a secret flavor weapon!
- Pure Vanilla Extract: Adds a warm, fragrant note that really elevates the fruit.
- Cornstarch: Our thickening agent! It makes sure the nectarine juices are beautifully saucy, not watery.
- All-Purpose Flour: The foundation for our glorious, crumbly topping.
- Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats: They give the crumble that essential chewiness and hearty texture.
- Brown Sugar: Provides a rich, caramel-like sweetness to the topping.
- Ground Cinnamon: A touch of warmth that perfectly complements the fruit.
- Chopped Almonds: Adds a wonderful nutty crunch. This is one of my favorite parts!
- Pinch of Kosher Salt: It truly enhances all the other flavors – don’t skip it!
- Cold Unsalted Butter: The secret to a truly crumbly, golden topping. Cold butter creates those delightful little pockets of crispiness.
Substitutions and Tips
Life happens, and sometimes you need to get creative! I totally get it.
- Fruit swaps: No nectarines? Try this with peaches, plums, or a mix of berries. Any stone fruit works beautifully.
- Nut alternatives: If almonds aren’t your thing, use walnuts, pecans, or even hazelnuts in the crumble.
- Dairy-free? You can try a plant-based butter substitute in the topping.
- Make ahead: You can mix the dry crumble ingredients and store them in the freezer. Your future self will thank you for this!
Remember, the exact amounts for this Nectarine Crumble Recipe are all waiting for you in the printable recipe card at the very end of this post!
How to Make Nectarine Crumble Recipe
Making this fruit crumble is truly a joy. I’ll walk you through each step. You’ll see how simple it is!
Prepare Your Oven and Butter
First things first, preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Then, cube your cold unsalted butter. Pop it into a bowl. Cover it with plastic wrap. Place it in the freezer. This keeps it super cold. Cold butter means a crispier topping.
Slice the Nectarines
Next, grab those beautiful nectarines. Slice them into thin, quarter-inch pieces. Don’t worry about peeling them. The skin softens nicely. It also adds pretty color. Trust me on this one!
Combine Fruit Ingredients
Now, grab a big mixing bowl. Add the sliced nectarines. Sprinkle in the granulated sugar. Add the lemon zest and juice. Pour in the pure vanilla extract. Stir in the cornstarch. Mix gently until the fruit is coated. Make sure there’s no extra mixture at the bottom. This ensures a perfect Nectarine Crumble Recipe every time.
Prepare the Crumble Topping
In another large bowl, combine the flour. Add the brown sugar and cinnamon. Toss in the chopped almonds. Don’t forget a pinch of salt. Stir in the old-fashioned rolled oats. Now, add the cubed butter from the freezer. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter. Pinch the butter into the mix. Keep going until it looks like small peas. This is the secret to a great Nectarine Crumble Recipe.
Assemble and Bake
Butter a 9×13 inch baking dish. Transfer the fruit mixture into it. Scatter the crumble mix evenly over the nectarines. Don’t press it down. Bake, uncovered, for 35 to 40 minutes. Look for bubbling juices. The topping should be golden brown. Let it cool for 15 minutes. Then, dig in! This dessert is irresistible.
How to Store Nectarine Crumble Recipe
Once your delightful Nectarine Crumble Recipe has cooled, you might find yourself with leftovers. Not to worry! It stores beautifully. For short-term storage, just cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap. You can keep it on the counter at room temperature for a day or two. If you want it to last longer, transfer it to an airtight container. Pop it in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm individual servings in the microwave. Or, cover the dish with foil. Reheat it in a 300-degree oven for about 15-20 minutes. This brings back that lovely warmth. It makes the crumble topping nice and crisp again, almost like it’s freshly baked!
Tips for Success
- Choose underripe nectarines for the best texture.
- Always use frigid butter for a truly crisp crumble.
- Don’t overmix the crumble topping.
- Let the crumble cool a bit before serving.
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream is a must!
- This Nectarine Crumble Recipe loves cold ingredients.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment with fruit.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- 9×13 inch baking dish: A trusty ceramic or glass dish works wonders for this Nectarine Crumble Recipe.
- Large mixing bowls: You’ll need at least two – one for the fruit, one for the crumble.
- Sharp knife and cutting board: Essential for slicing those lovely nectarines.
- Pastry cutter: Handy for blending the butter into the flour, but your fingers work too!
- Measuring cups and spoons: For precise ingredient amounts, as always.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream.
- A dollop of fresh whipped cream is also amazing.
- Pair with a hot cup of coffee or tea.
- It’s wonderful on its own for breakfast too!
- Garnish with a sprig of mint for extra flair.
Nectarine Crumble Recipe
- Total Time: 50-55 minutes
- Yield: 8-10 servings
Description
A delightful Nectarine Crumble recipe featuring tender nectarines topped with a crispy oat and almond crumble.
Ingredients
- 8 underripe nectarines
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 lemon zested and juiced
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 1/4 cup all purpose flour
- 2/3 cup old fashioned rolled oats
- 2/3 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 3/4 cup chopped almonds
- pinch kosher salt
- 1 1/2 sticks cold unsalted butter
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees.
- Cube your unsalted butter and place in a bowl. Cover with plastic wrap and place in the freezer while you prep the rest of your ingredients.
- Slice your nectarines into ¼” thickness, leaving the skin on.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the nectarine slices with ⅓ cup granulated sugar, lemon zest, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and cornstarch. Gently stir until the fruit is coated in the mixture and there’s no excess mixture in the bottom of the bowl.
- Transfer fruit to a well buttered 9×13″ baking dish or enamel braiser.
- In a large bowl add the flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, almonds, salt, old fashioned rolled oats and stir to combine. Add in the cubed butter. Using your fingers, pinch the butter into the oat mix (using a pastry cutter helps) until the butter resembles the size of peas.
- Evenly scatter the crumble mix over the nectarines. Bake at 350 degrees, uncovered, for 35-40 minutes, or until juices are bubbling and crumble topping is golden brown. Let sit for 15 minutes to cool before digging in.
Notes
- Start with underripe nectarines. You don’t want them to be rock hard though. They should have the slightest give to them when gently squished, but still too hard to take a bite out of and enjoy fresh.
- Make sure your butter is extra cold when you incorporate it into your oat mix.
- If you don’t have almonds, try hazelnuts, walnuts or pecans.
- Double your batch of crumble topping and keep in the freezer so you can easily whip up another batch later on. Your future self will thank you!
- This crumble is infinitely better with vanilla ice cream on top.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this Nectarine Crumble Recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the fruit filling and the crumble topping separately. Store the fruit in the fridge and the crumble mix (especially with cold butter) in the freezer. Then, just assemble and bake when you’re ready for that warm Nectarine Crumble Recipe dessert.
What if my nectarines are too ripe for this Nectarine Crumble Recipe?
If your nectarines are a bit too soft, they might become mushy when baked. It’s truly best to use slightly underripe ones. If you only have very ripe ones, you can still use them, but cook the crumble for a slightly shorter time. Or, pair them with firmer fruits like apples.
Can I use different fruits in this crumble?
Yes, please do! This recipe is super versatile. Peaches, plums, or even berries work beautifully. A mixed berry crumble is a fantastic alternative if you don’t have nectarines on hand.
How do I know when the Nectarine Crumble Recipe is done baking?
You’ll know it’s ready when the fruit juices are bubbling up nicely through the edges of the crumble. Also, the crumble topping should be beautifully golden brown and look crisp. Generally, 35-40 minutes is the sweet spot for a perfect Nectarine Crumble Recipe.
Conclusion
So there you have it, my friends! This Nectarine Crumble Recipe is more than just a dessert. It’s a warm invitation to gather, share, and savor simple pleasures. I truly hope you give it a try. The aroma alone will fill your kitchen with joy. Each bite delivers that perfect harmony of tender fruit and crispy topping. It’s comforting, satisfying, and simply unforgettable. This easy Nectarine Crumble Recipe is sure to become a cherished favorite in your own home. Happy baking, everyone!
