Easy Apple Crumble with Graham Crackers and Toasted Marshmallows Recipe

I absolutely love cozy desserts that feel like a warm hug on a chilly day, and this Easy Apple Crumble with Graham Crackers and Toasted Marshmallows Recipe is exactly that for me. The combination of tender baked apples, a buttery graham cracker crust, and the irresistible gooey layer of toasted marshmallows on top makes this crumble a delightful treat that’s both comforting and fun to make. It’s one of those recipes I come back to again and again because it’s quick to prepare yet bursting with flavor and texture.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Apple Crumble with Graham Crackers and Toasted Marshmallows Recipe

One of the things that excites me most about this recipe is how the flavor profile hits all the right notes: sweet, slightly tart apples mingling perfectly with the warm brown sugar and a touch of vanilla, all nestled under a golden, crumbly graham cracker topping. Then, when you add those toasted marshmallows on top, it brings a playful, melty sweetness that’s hard to resist. The contrast of textures—from the soft apples to the crunchy crust and the fluffy marshmallows—makes each bite a little adventure.

I also love how effortlessly this dessert comes together. If you’re anything like me and want something that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen, this crumble is a win. The ingredients are pantry staples or super easy to find, and the preparation is straightforward, with minimal cleanup. It’s perfect for those weeknight dinners when you want to impress without stress, or for holiday gatherings where everyone will appreciate a classic with a twist. Honestly, it’s one of those recipes that I’m thrilled to share because it feels special but never complicated.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The dish shows a white baking pan filled with a layered dessert. The top layer consists of golden-brown toasted marshmallows that cover the dish unevenly, some puffed and browned, others slightly lighter with a soft texture. Beneath the marshmallows, there is a layer of a thick, rich, brown mixture with visible chunks of soft, cooked fruit, likely apples. A silver spoon is scooping into the dessert, revealing the mix of fluffy, creamy marshmallows and the dense, cinnamon-colored fruit layer underneath. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Easy Apple Crumble with Graham Crackers and Toasted Marshmallows Recipe is in its simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create something extraordinary. Each plays its part, whether adding sweetness, texture, or that cozy baked apple flavor we all crave.

  • Apples: I use about 4 large apples, peeled and diced, which give the perfect balance of tartness and tenderness after baking.
  • Brown sugar: This sweetener adds warmth and depth to both the fruit filling and the topping.
  • Flour: Just a touch helps thicken the apple juices and bind the crumb topping.
  • Kosher salt: A pinch here and there enhances all the flavors and keeps the sweetness from being cloying.
  • Graham crackers: Crushed finely, these form the buttery, crisp topping that’s so deliciously different from the usual oat-based crumble.
  • Butter: Melted for the topping, it makes the graham cracker crumbs delightfully rich and golden when baked.
  • Vanilla extract: This little addition elevates the crumble with its warm, fragrant notes.
  • Jumbo marshmallows: Cut in half and toasted on top, they add that iconic, melty finish that’s irresistible.

Directions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350˚F. This ensures a steady baking temperature for tender apples and a nicely browned topping.

Step 2: In an 8-inch or 9-inch baking dish, combine the diced apples, brown sugar, flour, and salt. Toss everything gently so the apples are evenly coated in the sweet and thickening mixture. Set this aside while you prepare the topping.

Step 3: In a medium bowl, mix together the finely crushed graham cracker crumbs, flour, brown sugar, and salt. This dry blend forms the base of your crumble topping.

Step 4: In a separate small bowl, whisk the melted butter and vanilla extract until blended smoothly. Pour this buttery mix into the dry graham cracker mixture, stirring well until all crumbs are moist and clumpy enough to spread.

Step 5: Spread the crumb topping evenly over the apples in your baking dish, pressing gently with the back of a spoon or your hands to create a firm and uniform layer.

Step 6: Bake the crumble in your preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until the crust turns a beautiful golden brown and you see the apple juices bubbling through the crumbs at the edges.

Step 7: Carefully remove the crumble from the oven and switch your oven setting to BROIL. Arrange the marshmallow halves in a single layer atop the graham cracker crust.

Step 8: Place the dish under the broiler for 3 to 4 minutes, watching very closely so the marshmallows toast to a perfect golden brown without burning. That toasted marshmallow layer on top is pure magic!

Step 9: Once toasted, take your crumble out of the oven and let it rest for 5 to 7 minutes. This resting time helps the filling settle and makes serving easier.

Step 10: Serve warm or at room temperature, spooning generous portions onto plates or bowls, and enjoy the cozy flavors!

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields about 8 servings, making it perfect for sharing with family or friends. Prep time is quick—around 15 minutes—so you won’t be stuck in the kitchen for long. The baking itself takes about 30 minutes, with an additional 7 minutes resting time after broiling the marshmallows. Altogether, you’re looking at roughly 55 minutes from start to finish, which is totally manageable any time you want a special dessert without fuss.

How to Serve This Easy Apple Crumble with Graham Crackers and Toasted Marshmallows Recipe

This image shows a white rectangular baking dish filled with a layered dessert. The top layer is made of evenly toasted golden-brown marshmallows, soft and slightly puffed. Below the marshmallows is a thick layer of sweet, golden caramelized fruit chunks, likely pineapple, mixed with a crumbly brown sugar and spice mixture creating a textured and slightly crunchy base. A spoon is partially scooping the dessert, revealing the layers and soft, melted texture underneath. The background and surface are a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

I love serving this crumble warm because it highlights the gooey marshmallow and soft, spiced apples at their best. For a little extra indulgence, a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream makes an unbeatable pairing. The creaminess complements the crumbly texture and balances out the sweetness beautifully.

When it comes to presentation, I find it fun to sprinkle a few crushed graham cracker crumbs or a light dusting of cinnamon on top for a finishing touch. You can serve it in individual ramekins for a charming, intimate vibe or simply dish out from the baking pan for a relaxed, family-style dessert. Adding a few crisp apple slices alongside on the plate boosts the visual appeal.

As for drinks, I adore pairing this apple crumble with hot beverages like spiced apple cider or a cup of chai tea. For festive occasions, a glass of lightly chilled Riesling or a sparkling aperitif helps cut through the sweetness and refresh the palate. This crumble is so versatile—it’s just right for casual weeknights, cozy weekends, holiday celebrations, or potlucks where you want to impress without overcomplicating matters.

Variations

One of the fun parts of this Easy Apple Crumble with Graham Crackers and Toasted Marshmallows Recipe is how easy it is to customize. If you want to switch things up, you could swap in pears or a mix of berries for the apples to experiment with different fruit flavors. I’ve tried adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the fruit mixture for an extra hint of spice that’s perfect for fall.

If you’re catering to dietary needs, I recommend using gluten-free graham crackers and gluten-free flour to keep it safe for those with gluten sensitivities. For a vegan option, swap the butter for coconut oil or a plant-based margarine, and use marshmallows that are certified vegan—this way, everyone can enjoy this delicious dessert without missing out.

To mix up the cooking method, you could even prepare this crumble in individual oven-safe mugs or mini gratin dishes for adorable single servings. Another idea is to grill the crumble briefly under a grill pan or use a kitchen torch to toast the marshmallows for extra-control on browning if you want to avoid broiling.

Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, which sometimes happens despite my best efforts, store the crumble in an airtight container in the refrigerator. I like to cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or transfer portions to glass containers. The crumble stays delicious for up to 3 days, although I always find it tastes best fresh!

Freezing

Freezing this apple crumble is definitely possible, though I prefer freezing it before adding marshmallows to prevent them from getting too sticky. You can wrap the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and then add fresh marshmallows to broil just before serving for that perfect toasted topping.

Reheating

To reheat your leftovers, I recommend warming the crumble in an oven set to 325˚F for 10 to 15 minutes until heated through and the crust is crisp again. Avoid reheating in the microwave if possible, as this can make the marshmallow topping tough or the crust soggy. If you want to refresh the marshmallows, just pop it under the broiler for a minute or two after warming for that fresh toasted finish.

FAQs

Can I use different types of apples for this recipe?

Absolutely! I usually pick a mix of sweet and tart apples like Fuji and Granny Smith to get a balanced flavor and good texture. Just make sure the apples you choose hold up well during baking so they don’t turn into mush.

What can I substitute if I don’t have graham crackers?

If graham crackers aren’t available, crushed digestive biscuits or even a crunchy granola with oats can work as a substitute. Just make sure to crush them finely for a nice crumbly topping that bakes evenly.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Replace the butter with coconut oil or vegan margarine, and use vegan marshmallows which are often labeled clearly in stores or online. The rest of the ingredients are naturally plant-based, so it’s easy to adapt.

How do I prevent the marshmallows from burning while broiling?

Watch the crumble closely as marshmallows toast very quickly under the broiler. Set a timer for 3 minutes, and keep the oven door slightly ajar so you can check easily. Moving the tray away from the heating element if browning too fast helps avoid burning.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can assemble the crumble a few hours before baking and keep it covered in the fridge. Add the marshmallows and broil right before serving to keep that toasty freshness. This makes it convenient for dinner parties or holiday meals.

Conclusion

I truly hope you give this Easy Apple Crumble with Graham Crackers and Toasted Marshmallows Recipe a try soon. It’s one of those desserts that warms the soul and brings smiles, whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or indulging on your own. The flavors and textures are so satisfying, and it’s easy enough to whip up any day of the week. Happy baking and enjoy every gooey, crunchy, apple-filled bite!

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Easy Apple Crumble with Graham Crackers and Toasted Marshmallows Recipe

Easy Apple Crumble with Graham Crackers and Toasted Marshmallows Recipe

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This Easy Apple Crumble with Graham Crackers is a comforting, apple-packed dessert featuring a sweet, pie-like filling topped with a buttery, crumbly graham cracker crust and toasted marshmallows. Perfect for a cozy treat, it combines warm baked apples with a crunchy topping and a sweet, toasty marshmallow finish.

  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings

Ingredients

For the Fruit:

  • 4 to 5 cups cored, peeled, and diced apples (about 4 large apples)
  • ¼ cup brown sugar
  • 1 ½ tablespoons flour
  • ¼ teaspoon kosher salt

For the Topping:

  • 1 sleeve (9 sheets) graham crackers, crushed into fine crumbs
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • 6 tablespoons butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 16 to 20 jumbo marshmallows, cut in half crosswise

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350˚F to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking your apple crumble.
  2. Prepare Fruit Mixture: In an 8-inch or 9-inch baking dish, combine the diced apples, brown sugar, flour, and kosher salt. Toss the ingredients together thoroughly to coat the apples evenly, then set aside.
  3. Mix Topping Dry Ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, stir together the graham cracker crumbs, all-purpose flour, brown sugar, and kosher salt until combined.
  4. Add Wet Ingredients to Topping: In a small bowl, whisk the melted butter and vanilla extract together. Pour this mixture into the graham cracker crumbs and use a spoon to mix it until the crumbs are moistened evenly.
  5. Assemble the Crumble: Spread the crumb topping evenly over the coated apples in the baking dish. Press down gently with the back of a spoon or your hands to form an even, compact layer.
  6. Bake the Crumble: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes, or until the topping turns golden brown and the apple mixture bubbles up along the edges.
  7. Broil with Marshmallows: Remove the crumble from the oven and set the oven to broil. Arrange the halved jumbo marshmallows in a single layer on top of the baked crumble. Broil for 3 to 4 minutes, watching closely, until the marshmallows are golden and toasted to your liking.
  8. Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the apple crumble cool for 5 to 7 minutes. Serve warm or at room temperature for a delicious dessert experience.

Notes

  • Use firm apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji for the best texture and flavor.
  • For extra crunch, you can add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the topping mixture.
  • Keep a close eye on the marshmallows while broiling to prevent burning.
  • This dessert is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat gently in the oven before serving to refresh the crisp topping.
  • Author: Olivia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

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