Crumble with plum jam

Plum Jam Crumble – a Quick and Delicious Dessert

When it comes to desserts, sometimes we crave something simple yet delightful to our senses. The plum jam crumble is perfect for those moments when you need a quick, impressive sweet treat. This recipe will not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also bring a touch of nostalgia, reminding you of the lovingly made desserts by grandparents.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 25-30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 8

Ingredients:
- 250 g flour (choose a type 000 flour for a finer crumble)
- 150 g butter (make sure it’s at room temperature for easy incorporation)
- 150 g sugar (you can adjust the amount according to your preferences; the plum jam can be sweet enough)
- 1 egg (a medium-sized egg will be perfect)
- a few tablespoons of plum jam (preferably homemade)
- ground cinnamon (about 1-2 tablespoons, depending on your taste)

Instructions:
1. Start by preparing your ingredients. Make sure you have everything at hand; this will make your cooking process more enjoyable and efficient.

2. In a large bowl, add the flour, sugar, and butter. Use your fingers to rub the ingredients together until you achieve a crumbly dough. This step is crucial, as the butter needs to blend well with the flour to create a slightly crisp texture.

3. Add the egg and continue to mix. It’s important not to overwork the dough, as it shouldn’t become elastic. Just enough to form a homogeneous mass.

4. Once you have the dough, divide it into two parts: a larger piece and a smaller piece (about ¾ of the dough for the crumble base and ¼ for the topping). Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and place it in the freezer for 15 minutes. This technique helps achieve a crispier crust.

5. Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 180°C. Choose a suitable baking dish (preferably a square or round one) and lightly grease it with butter.

6. Remove the dough from the freezer. Roll out the larger piece of dough on a lightly floured surface, then place it in the baking dish. Use your fingers to press the dough evenly into the bottom of the dish.

7. Spread the plum jam over the dough. Don’t hesitate to be generous! Sprinkle the ground cinnamon on top for an added flavor boost. Cinnamon not only enhances the taste but also adds a warm and comforting note.

8. Fold the edges of the dough inward to create a small border that will help keep the filling inside.

9. Grate the remaining dough on top using a grater or knife to create a crunchy topping. Sprinkle a little extra cinnamon for added flavor.

10. Bake in the oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the crumble turns golden and crispy on top. In the meantime, the sweet aroma of plums and cinnamon will fill your home!

11. After baking, let the crumble cool in the dish. This step is important as it helps set the layers.

12. Serve warm, alongside a glass of plum compote or with vanilla ice cream. The combination of warm crumble with cold ice cream is a perfect choice for a delicious dessert.

Helpful tips:
- If you don’t have plum jam, you can use other types of jam (such as raspberry or apricot) or even fresh fruits.
- You can add nuts or almond flakes to the dough for extra crunch.
- Experiment with spices! A dash of nutmeg or ground ginger can provide an interesting and different flavor.

Nutritional benefits:
This plum jam crumble is a source of carbohydrates from flour and sugar, as well as healthy fats from butter. Plums are rich in fiber, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants, making it a dessert that is not only delicious but also healthy in moderation.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other types of fruits or jams?
Absolutely! You can replace the plum jam with any other type of jam you prefer or add seasonal fresh fruits.

- How can I make the dough less sweet?
Reducing the amount of sugar is an option, but you can also choose a less sweet jam for the filling.

- What other desserts can I make with the same ingredients?
You can use the crumble dough to create other types of pies or tarts with berries, caramelized apples, or pears.

I’ll conclude with a personal note: this plum jam crumble reminds me of evenings spent with family, when every dessert was an opportunity to gather together and enjoy simple yet warm moments. So, prepare this dessert, enjoy it with your loved ones, and don’t forget to share the smiles and stories created around the table!