irish dessert recipe
The Best irish dessert recipe
I also love how this recipe is surprisingly healthy for a dessert. The apples are packed with fiber and natural sweetness, and the whole-grain crust (if you use one) adds a nice texture without the refined flour. The cream is light, and if you swap half for Greek yogurt, it cuts down on saturated fat while keeping that creamy texture. My husband and I have been experimenting with that swap, and it’s a great way to enjoy something sweet without feeling guilty. Plus, it’s easy to prep ahead—just bake it a day ahead, and it only gets better. We’ve had it at family dinners, potlucks, and even just for breakfast with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon. It’s that kind of dessert that feels like home, whether you’re feeding a crowd or just yourself. And honestly? It’s the kind of recipe that makes you feel like you’re doing something special, even if you’re just making it for yourself.
Irish Apple Crumble with Cream
A classic Irish dessert featuring tender baked apples in a buttery crumble topping, served with a rich, velvety cream sauce. Perfect for a cozy autumn treat.
🥘Ingredients
- 6 medium apples (Honeycrisp or Granny Smith)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- Pinch of nutmeg
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cold butter, cubed
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Peel, core, and slice the apples into 1/2-inch thick rounds. -
2
In a large bowl, toss the apple slices with granulated sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, and nutmeg until evenly coated. -
3
In a separate bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. -
4
Spread the apple mixture evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Sprinkle the crumble mixture evenly over the apples. -
5
Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown. -
6
While the apples bake, prepare the cream sauce: In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream, milk, brown sugar, cornstarch, and salt until it begins to simmer. Remove from heat, stir in vanilla extract, and let it thicken slightly (about 2–3 minutes). -
7
Once the apples are done, let the crumble cool for 5 minutes. Serve warm with the cream sauce poured over the top.
🔧Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Cutting board
- Applesauce maker or food processor (optional)
- Baking sheet
- Oven
- Whisk
- Large saucepan
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
- For extra richness, add a dollop of whipped cream on top.
- Substitute apples with pears or peaches if preferred.
- Make the crumble topping ahead of time and store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Ensure the apples are well-seasoned to balance the sweetness of the crumble.
Watch Video Of How Irish Apple Crumble with Cream Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Irish Apple Crumble with Cream
1. What is the traditional Irish dessert called, and what are its main ingredients?
The traditional Irish dessert is Irish Apple Cake (or “Apple Cake”), often made with a spiced apple filling and a moist, slightly sweet cake batter. Classic ingredients include apples, sugar, flour, butter, eggs, baking powder, and warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice. Some versions also include raisins or dried fruit for extra richness.
2. How do you prepare the spiced apple filling for this dessert?
To make the spiced apple filling, first peel, core, and slice the apples (about 4–5 medium-sized). In a large bowl, mix them with sugar (about ½ cup per pound of apples), a pinch of salt, and a splash of lemon juice to prevent browning. Stir in ¼ cup of melted butter or oil, then gradually add warm spices—about 1–2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon each of nutmeg and allspice, and a pinch of cloves. Let the mixture sit for 30 minutes while you prepare the cake batter.
3. What is the best way to bake the Irish Apple Cake, and how long does it take?
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper. Pour the cake batter into the pan, then carefully spoon the spiced apple mixture over the top. Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. For extra crispiness, you can broil for 2–3 minutes at the end, but watch closely to avoid burning.
4. Can you make this dessert gluten-free or vegan, and how would you adapt the recipe?
Yes! For a gluten-free version, replace the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend (like Bob’s Red Mill or King Arthur). For a vegan version, use flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flax + 3 tbsp water per egg), plant-based butter (like Earth Balance), and vegan sugar. Skip the butter in the filling and use coconut oil instead. Some bakers also add extra moisture with applesauce or mashed banana.
5. What are some common variations or toppings that people add to Irish Apple Cake?
Many enjoy adding whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or custard as a topping. Some variations include:
– A dusting of powdered sugar or coconut flakes for a lighter finish.
– A swirl of chocolate ganache or caramel sauce for extra decadence.
– Fresh berries (raspberries, blackberries) or orange zest for brightness.
– A sprinkle of crushed nuts (walnuts or pecans) for texture.
– A drizzle of honey or maple syrup for a touch of sweetness. Some also bake the cake in a loaf pan for a denser, sliceable version.
