Plum and Orange Oat Crumble

Plum and Orange Oat Crumble combines a sweet plum and orange compote with a crisp oat crumble creating a rich and luscious dessert. It’s simple to make and a real crowd pleaser.

I do love a crumble, there’s something very satisfying about that crumbly topping and the soft cooked fruit underneath.

Although imported plums are available all year round, there’s nothing quite like using seasonal British plums and this simple recipe is a brilliant way to serve them.

Why should I make Plum and Orange Oat Crumble?

Plum and Orange Oat Crumble is wonderfully versatile, equally at home at a casual family meal or a more special dinner. It’s easy to scale up for a crowd or down for a quiet evening.

Serve it hot from the oven on a chilly evening, or cool with a dollop of cream on a warm afternoon. Children and adults alike love its contrasting textures and vivid flavours.

What ingredients do I need to make Plum and Orange Oat Crumble?

The ingredients you need for this recipe are readily available and you may already have most of them in your larder and fridge. Here is what you need:

• Plum Compote with Orange
• Flour
• Butter
• Rolled Oats
• Sugar

Scroll to the end of this article to find the full recipe and all quantities of ingredients, with step-by-step photo instructions

What is Plum Compote with Orange?

For this recipe for Plum and Orange Oat Crumble I use a half quantity of my Plum Compote with Orange. You can use any kind of plum to make the plum compote. I like to use British plums like Victoria if I can source them, but use whatever plums you have available.

Do I have to make the compote?

You can make a plum crumble by adding raw plums and sugar to an ovenproof dish, then add the crumble mixture on top. However, this needs to be baked at a lower temperature and for longer.

The advantage of the compote is that it takes very little time to make in a pan and then you only need 20 -25 minutes to bake the crumble topping. You can also make a large quantity of compote use half and either keep the rest in the fridge or even freeze it for a later date.

Why should I add orange to the Plum and Orange Oat Crumble?

The bright, citrus notes of orange cut through the rich sweetness of baked plums, lending freshness and a subtle tang. The orange zest infuses the dish with a lively fragrance and brings together the juicy burst of plum and the gentle acidity of orange that mingle, softening and enriching each other as they bake.

What kind of flour should I use?

I use plain (all purpose) white flour for my crumble. However, you can use wholemeal (whole wheat) flour if you prefer. It does make the crumble a little more dense but it adds a nice nutty flavour too.

Can I use a plant based spread instead of butter?

Yes, if you prefer to use a plant based spread then it will work just the same. If using a spread then I recommend that you use a full fat spread. As ‘light’ spreads are full of water which will affect the crispiness of your crumble.

What are rolled oats?

Rolled oats are the type of porridge oats that you probably know best. They are flat and flaky and have been steam processed so are quick and easy to cook. Try to get the jumbo oats as they add the best texture. Instant oats are not suitable for this crumble.

Why should I add rolled oats to the crumble?

Rolled oats add a delicious toasted nutty flavour and a bit of a crunch to your crumble topping. It’s not essential and if you prefer not to use them then simply substitute the rolled oats for more flour. However, I would urge you to try rolled oats in your crumble because they really are delicious.

What kind of sugar should I use in the crumble?

I use standard white granulated sugar in the Plum and Orange Compote and soft brown sugar in the crumble mixture. You can use granulated or demerara (turbinado) sugar in the crumble but I like the sweet caramelisation that the soft brown sugar brings to the dish.

How do I make the oat crumble topping?

Crumble topping is easy to make and the rubbing in method is one of the simplest. The same basic method is used to make scones and shortcrust pastry.

• Cut the butter into cubes
• Put the flour and butter into a bowl
• Use a knife or a pastry cutter to chop the butter into smaller pieces. It will pick up flour along the way.
• Get your fingers into the mixture and lightly rub the butter and flour until the mix resembles breadcrumbs.
• Stir in the oats and the sugar

Follow the step-by-step instructions in the recipe card at the end of this page.

Can I make the Plum and Orange Oat Crumble ahead of time?

You can prepare the Plum and Orange Oat Crumble several hours before baking in the oven. I don’t recommend keeping it for more than about 3 or 4 hours. Once you have baked the crumble it will stay warm for about half an hour.

If you want to get further ahead then you can make up the crumble mix and store it in the fridge in a sealed box or bag for up to 5 days. The Plum and Orange Compote will also keep in the fridge for 5 days.

Can I freeze Plum and Orange Oat Crumble?

I don’t recommend freezing the baked crumble. You can freeze the compote and thaw it either in the fridge overnight or on the defrost setting of your microwave.

You can also freeze portions of crumble mix for up to 3 months. And you can use it straight from the freezer which is a great shortcut.

Vegetarian

This recipe is meat-free and suitable for vegetarians.

Gluten Free

Plum and Orange Oat Crumble contains wheat flour in the crumble mix. You can replace wheat flour with gluten-free flour. Please also check that any rolled oats that you use are suitable for a GF diet as they may have been produced in a factory where there can be cross-contamination.

For more information regarding any dietary information provided on this website, please refer to my Nutritional Disclaimer.

How should I serve Plum and Orange Oat Crumble?

This dessert is simple to make and easy to serve family style at the table. Or serve up in individual bowls or ramekins, garnishing with orange zest and a dusting of icing sugar.

Hot or Cold?

• On a chilly day, serve the crumble bubbling and golden, straight from the oven.
• For a lighter treat allow the crumble to cool before serving. The flavours combine and deepen giving the full flavour of the plums and orange.

The Finishing Touch

• Pour over a ridiculous amount chilled pouring cream, letting it pool into the nooks and crannies of the oat topping.
• Serve with a traditional warm custard serving for an old-fashioned, comfort food finish.
• My personal favourite is to serve the warm crumble with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It melts into the hot crumble and creates a delightful contrast, both in temperature and texture.

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