Classic English Apple Crumble

1.Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F). Lightly grease an 8x8 inch baking dish or a similar 2-quart oven-safe dish.

2.Prepare the filling: In a large bowl, combine the chopped apples, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Toss gently until the apples are evenly coated.

3.Transfer the apple mixture to the prepared baking dish and sprinkle the 2 tablespoons of water evenly over the top.

4.Prepare the crumble topping: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, nutmeg, and salt.

5.Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Using your fingertips or a pastry blender, work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse breadcrumbs with some pea-sized pieces of butter remaining. Do not overmix.

6.Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the apple filling, ensuring the apples are mostly covered.

7.Bake for 35 to 45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crisp, and the apple filling is bubbling thickly around the edges.

8.Remove from the oven and let it cool for at least 15 minutes before serving. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream, custard, or heavy cream.