Single Serving Apple Crumble with Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe

I absolutely love whipping up this Single Serving Apple Crumble with Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe whenever I crave a warm, comforting dessert but don’t want a huge batch lingering in the fridge. The beauty of it is how quick and simple it is to put together—about 5 minutes of prep, then you’re just waiting for that golden, bubbling perfection from the oven. It’s just right when you want something sweet, cozy, and satisfying without the fuss of a big recipe.

When I first tried this, I didn’t believe a single serving crumble could be so flavorful and indulgent all on its own. Plus, pairing it with vanilla ice cream creates this dreamy contrast of warm and cold that my family goes crazy for. Whether you’re treating yourself after a long day or surprising someone with a tiny but mighty dessert, this Single Serving Apple Crumble with Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe is totally worth making.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients come together to create a harmony of sweet, tart apple filling and buttery, cinnamon-spiced crumble topping. I recommend using a firm and sweet apple like Jazz or Honeycrisp for the best texture and flavor that holds up in baking.

• Jazz apple: I love using Jazz because it stays crisp and adds the perfect tartness, but Honeycrisp works beautifully too.
• Raw sugar: Adds a subtle caramel note to both the filling and topping, much better than regular white sugar in my opinion.
• Lemon: Just a splash of lemon juice brightens the apple filling and keeps the apples from browning.
• Cinnamon: A pinch in both filling and topping gives that classic warm spice without overpowering the apples.
• Butter: Melted butter brings the crumble topping together and makes everything extra rich and golden.
• Flour: Use plain all-purpose flour—it’s the base for the crumble and helps create that perfect crumbly texture.
• Vanilla ice cream: For serving, the cold creamy vanilla ice cream elevates the dish beyond just a simple apple crumble.

Variations

I often tweak this Single Serving Apple Crumble with Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe based on what I have in the kitchen or the season. It’s pretty forgiving, so feel free to get creative and make it your own!

• Use different fruits: I love swapping apples for pears or mixing in berries when they’re in season for a fresh twist.
• Gluten-free version: Try using almond flour or gluten-free flour blends for the crumble topping; it still turns out wonderfully crisp.
• Spice it up: Adding a pinch of nutmeg or ginger gives it an extra warm depth—my family always notices and loves the change.
• Double the topping: If you’re craving more crisp on top, just increase the crumble ingredients; it’s so satisfying.

How to Make Single Serving Apple Crumble with Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Apple Filling

Start by chopping one firm Jazz apple into small, even cubes—it helps them cook uniformly. Toss the cubes in your ramekin with melted butter, raw sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. I find mixing well ensures every bite will be flavorful, and the lemon juice prevents the apples from turning brown while they bake.

Step 2: Whip Up the Crumble Topping

In a small bowl, combine flour, raw sugar, and cinnamon, then add the melted butter. Use your hands to gently mix until the mixture looks like wet sand — slightly damp, clumps included, but still crumbly. This texture is key; if it’s too dry, it won’t form that delicious golden crust we want.

Step 3: Layer and Bake

Sprinkle the crumble evenly over the apple mixture in your ramekin. Don’t stress if some apples peek through—that’s perfectly fine. Pop it into a toaster oven preheated to 350°F and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. Keep an eye on the crumble’s color; it should be golden brown, and you want those edges to bubble. If you’re using a regular oven, baking time may stretch to around 35 to 40 minutes.

Step 4: Serve with Vanilla Ice Cream

Once out of the oven, let it cool just slightly—you don’t want to burn your tongue, but warm is perfect. Top generously with a large scoop of vanilla ice cream. I’ve even experimented with rose saffron kulfi for a fun Desi flavor twist that really elevates the dish!

How to Serve Single Serving Apple Crumble with Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe

Garnishes

I usually keep it simple with a big scoop of vanilla ice cream. Sometimes I sprinkle a little extra cinnamon or drizzle honey on top for an added touch of sweetness. For a more festive look, a few toasted nuts or a fresh mint leaf adds awesome color and texture contrast.

Side Dishes

If you want to turn this into a more elevated dessert, pairing it with strong black coffee or a spiced chai is my go-to. I’ve also served it alongside a simple green salad for a light finish after dinner, balancing the sweetness nicely.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I serve this crumble in pretty little glass jars or mini cast iron skillets—everyone enjoys the individual presentation. Another fun idea is layering apple filling and crumble in clear glasses to show off the layers topped with ice cream and a cinnamon stick garnish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers (which doesn’t usually happen with me!), cover the crumble tightly and store it in the fridge. It stays good for about 2 days, but I recommend reheating gently to bring back that fresh-baked warmth.

Freezing

I’ve frozen apple crumble before, though I find the topping texture changes slightly. To freeze, assemble but don’t bake, then cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to a month. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes until bubbly and golden.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a toaster oven or regular oven at 325°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crisp on top. Avoid microwaving since it can make the topping soggy and the apples watery.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Single Serving Apple Crumble with Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe holds a special place in my dessert rotation because it’s just so comforting and satisfying without the overwhelming quantity. It’s truly a little act of self-care—a warm, sweet treat that’s all yours to enjoy. I hope you try this recipe and find as much joy in baking and savoring it as I do. Trust me, once you make this, you’ll want to keep it in your dessert repertoire for solo indulgences or impressive quick treats for friends!

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