Plum Crumble

Plum Crumble – a dessert that combines the natural flavors of fruit with a crunchy crust, perfect for moments of indulgence! This simple yet sophisticated dessert is quick to prepare and ideal for festive meals as well as family Sunday evenings. Imagine a steaming platter of plum crumble, served warm alongside a scoop of creamy ice cream! A combination of textures and flavors that will leave you speechless.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 6

The history of crumble is fascinating. This dessert gained popularity in the 20th century as a simple alternative to traditional cakes, appreciated for its quick preparation and the use of seasonal fruits. Every homemaker has her own version, and today I will present you with a delicious plum crumble recipe, but feel free to experiment with other fruits, such as apples or pears.

Ingredients:
- 1 kg ripe plums (you can use more, depending on your preferences)
- 140 g brown sugar (it will give a caramelized flavor)
- 100 g oats (preferably finer, ground)
- 1 teaspoon natural vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon orange blossom extract
- Juice of one orange (approximately 100 ml)
- Grated zest of one orange (for an extra flavor)
- 250 g flour
- 175 g cold but soft butter (make sure it is cut into cubes)
- A pinch of salt (to balance the sweetness)

Preparation instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. This step is essential for achieving a perfectly golden crust.
2. Wash the plums well under cold water. Then, cut them in half, removing the pits. If desired, you can also cut them into quarters for more even distribution in the pan.
3. In a large bowl, add the cut plums and drizzle them with orange juice. This will not only enhance the flavors but also prevent the fruit from oxidizing. Add the grated orange zest for an extra touch of freshness.
4. In another bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, oats, and salt. The mixture should be homogeneous, with a slightly grainy texture.
5. Add the cubed butter and mix with your fingers or a pastry blender until you achieve a crumbly texture, similar to breadcrumbs. It is important not to overwork the dough so that the butter does not melt.
6. Incorporate the vanilla and orange blossom extracts. Gently mix to distribute the flavors.
7. In a greased baking dish (or lined with parchment paper), add the plums drizzled with orange juice, then evenly cover them with the crumbly mixture.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the crumble turns golden and crispy. The aroma that will spread throughout the kitchen is simply irresistible.
9. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving, but don’t wait too long – served warm, this plum crumble is a delight!

Serving suggestions:
To turn this recipe into a true treat, try serving the warm crumble with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. Additionally, a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce would add a decadent touch.

Possible variations:
If you want to experiment, you can add other fruits to the plum mixture, such as apples, pears, or even raspberries. Each variation will provide a unique and interesting flavor. You can also replace brown sugar with honey or maple syrup for a more natural option.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other fruits instead of plums?
Yes, you can use any seasonal fruits. Apples and pears are excellent, but berries can also add a pleasant tartness.

2. How can I store the crumble?
It can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. Reheat it slightly before serving again to restore its crispy texture.

3. Is this recipe healthy?
Plum crumble is a healthier choice due to the fruit content and oats, which provide fiber and nutrients. However, like any dessert, it should be consumed in moderation.

Nutrition:
Per serving, the plum crumble has approximately 300-400 calories, depending on the ingredients used and portioning. This may vary depending on additions like ice cream or sauces.

This plum crumble is more than just a dessert; it’s an experience that will bring you joy and warmth in every bite. Don’t hesitate to make it and share it with your loved ones – it will surely become a fast favorite in your kitchen! Enjoy!