Fruit crumble may just be the world’s easiest dessert – and one of the yummiest! The only trick to making a great crumble topping is that the butter has to be cold. I still remember the best crumble I ever had, it was in a pub in a tiny fishing village on the east coast of Scotland. I don’t recall anything else about that meal, but I’ve never forgotten the plum crumble. You can use this crumble topping with any fruit, even canned or bottled in a pinch. I love stone fruit crumbles in summer when these juicy fruits are so abundant and delicious, and quince, pear, or apple crumble (see video below) in winter. Nectarines are especially quick as they don’t need to be peeled, and their red skin looks beautiful, especially if you use a mixture of yellow and white-fleshed fruit for contrast. I also sometimes just cook the crumble topping spread on a baking paper-lined tray and sprinkle it over ice cream. I like a vin santo with fruit desserts, and I especially enjoy the slightly bitter note of San Niccolo from Chianti producer Castellare.

Serves 6

Ingredients
  • 6 nectarines
  • 1½ cups plain flour
  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • 125g cold butter, cubed
  • Vanilla ice cream or custard, for serving
Method
  1. Preheat oven to 180°C.
  2. Chop nectarines and place in oven-proof bowls or ramekins.
  3. Place flour, sugar and butter in a bowl and rub together with your fingers until it crumbles, squeezing the mixture a little so some of it clumps together.
  4. Crumble the mixture over the nectarine and bake for 25-30 minutes until crunchy and golden.
  5. Serve hot or warm with ice cream or custard.

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What Other Travellers Say

Janet (Tamworth, NSW, Aus.)
Janet (Tamworth, NSW, Aus.)
Just back from the most amazing trip to Emilia-Romagna with Roberta. Not only the home of Prosciutto di Parma, Parmigiano-Reggiano & Balsamic Vinegar, but scenery to die for and more quaint and exciting restaurants and cafés than you ever imagined. And Roberta is just the person to help you discover and enjoy them! Her knowledge of the history of the region and its wonderful cuisine know no bounds and all added to the excitement of the trip. It was faultless - well organized and lots of fun!
Deb (Belconnen, ACT, Aus.)
Deb (Belconnen, ACT, Aus.)
Wow, what a tour – I learned so much! Awesome fun traveling through Emilia-Romagna experiencing first hand some of the produce I've worked with over the last couple of years cooking with Roberta's recipe kits – the family are reaping the benefits now. If you're thinking of joining Roberta in future years get ready for an amazing experience.
Mark (Elizabeth Bay, NSW, Aus.)
Mark (Elizabeth Bay, NSW, Aus.)
My wife and I recently joined Roberta's Emilia-Romagna tour. We enjoyed all the temptations offered and learned a lot about that part of Italy, especially its food and wine culture. What was most impressive was Roberta's local knowledge of people and places. The planning and effort she put into making the whole experience seem effortless was remarkable.
Karen (Bowral, NSW, Aus.)
Karen (Bowral, NSW, Aus.)
Our tour with Roberta through Emilia-Romagna was the highlight of the year. Good company, gorgeous palazzi and great food. What more could one ask for? Roberta's enthusiasm and knowledge made this a once in a lifetime experience through an extraordinary, diverse and very special region.
Shelley (Auckland, NZ)
Shelley (Auckland, NZ)
Roberta’s passion for Italy shone throughout an unforgettable food and wine tour. She introduced us to family-owned artisanal producers, where we experienced everything from attic-aged balsamic to small-batch wines, Parma ham and Parmigiano-Reggiano. The local guides were equally passionate, and the excellent transport and accommodation made the trip effortless. This tour captured the region’s traditions, flavours and people, and thanks to Roberta’s deep knowledge we left with wonderful memories. A truly authentic culinary adventure — highly recommended.
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