Apple crumble is a classic fall dessert made from apples, sugar, spices, flour, and butter. It has a sweet crumbly topping over soft baked apples. But there is often debate around whether apple crumble needs to be refrigerated or not. Here is a detailed look at whether apple crumble needs to be kept in the fridge.
Should You Refrigerate Apple Crumble?
In general, yes apple crumble should be refrigerated. There are a few main reasons why:
- The high moisture content – Apple crumble contains a lot of moisture from the fresh apples. This moisture content means bacteria and mold can grow quickly at room temperature.
- The eggs – Most apple crumble recipes call for eggs in the crumble topping. This adds more moisture and means it should be refrigerated.
- The dairy – Butter is used in the crumble topping and many recipes also call for milk or cream. Dairy products need refrigeration.
- Food safety – Refrigerating any baked good with eggs, dairy and fresh fruit is recommended for food safety.
So the consensus is that apple crumble should always be stored in the refrigerator. The moisture from the apples combined with the dairy and eggs make apple crumble prone to spoiling if left out too long at room temperature. Refrigeration is the best way to extend the shelf life and keep it safe to eat.
How Long Does Apple Crumble Last In The Fridge?
When stored properly in the refrigerator, apple crumble will last 3-5 days. Here are some tips for fridge storage:
- Allow apple crumble to cool completely before refrigerating. Cover the dish and refrigerate within 1-2 hours of baking.
- Store apple crumble in an airtight container. An airtight container prevents moisture loss and keeps the texture intact.
- Press plastic wrap directly on the surface of the crumble before putting the lid on. This prevents oxidation.
- Store apple crumble on a shelf rather than in the door where the temperature fluctuates.
With proper refrigeration, the apples will stay moist and the crumble will retain its texture for 3-5 days. Be sure to inspect your apple crumble and discard any portions that look moldy or smell bad.
What Happens If You Leave Apple Crumble Out?
Leaving apple crumble out at room temperature can quickly lead to spoilage. Here’s what happens:
- Moisture loss – The apples will start to dry out, losing their moisture.
- Texture changes – The crumble will become increasingly firm and dry as it sits out.
- Mold growth – The moist filling provides the perfect environment for mold to grow after a few hours.
- Bacteria – Harmful bacteria like E. coli, Salmonella, and Staphylococcus can start multiplying at room temperature.
- Off flavors/smells – The apple filling and crumble will start to smell and taste unpleasant due to spoilage.
For food safety, apple crumble left out for more than 2 hours should be discarded. The risk of foodborne illness rises exponentially when perishable foods like apple crumble are left out too long.
Can You Freeze Apple Crumble?
Freezing is a great way to enjoy apple crumble beyond the 3-5 day timeframe. Apple crumble freezes well for 2-3 months.
To freeze apple crumble:
- Allow crumble to cool completely then wrap tightly in plastic wrap. Exclude as much air as possible.
- Place in freezer bags or airtight containers. Make sure to label the container with the date.
- Freeze for up to 3 months. Crumble can be thawed in the fridge overnight before serving.
The crumble may suffer some texture changes after freezing and thawing. But the apples should retain their flavor and the crumble will still taste great.
Can You Reheat Apple Crumble?
Properly stored apple crumble can be reheated and served again. To reheat, follow these steps:
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Place desired portions of apple crumble in an oven-safe dish.
- Cover with foil and bake for 15-20 minutes until hot throughout.
- Serve warm with ice cream or whipped cream.
Only reheat amounts that will be fully eaten. Do not re-refrigerate reheated portions. Reheated apple crumble is best consumed immediately.
Signs Your Apple Crumble Has Gone Bad
Look out for these signs that your apple crumble has spoiled and should be discarded:
- Mold – Mold growth whether on the apples or crumble topping means it’s spoiled.
- Discoloration – Grayish hues or dull, faded apples indicate spoilage.
- Sour smell – An unpleasantly sour or fermented odor.
- Off flavors – Soapy, bitter, or medicinal flavors when tasted.
- Weeping liquid – Watery liquid leaking from the apples is a bad sign.
- Dry crumble – Extreme dryness in the crumble topping signals mold or starch retrogradation.
When in doubt, remember it’s better to be safe and discard apple crumble past 3-5 days. Don’t risk getting sick from eating spoiled apple crumble.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my apple crumble need to be refrigerated?
Apple crumble contains fresh fruit, dairy products, and eggs which can quickly spoil at room temperature. Refrigeration is necessary both for food safety and to prevent the apples from becoming mushy or the crumble drying out.
How can I make my apple crumble last longer?
Proper refrigeration is key. Store apple crumble in an airtight container, press plastic wrap directly on the surface before sealing, and refrigerate within 1-2 hours of baking. Use within 3-5 days. Freezing also extends the shelf life for 2-3 months.
Is it safe to eat apple crumble that’s been left out overnight?
No, apple crumble that has been left out at room temperature overnight should not be eaten. Harmful bacteria can multiply quickly making it unsafe. Discard apple crumble left out more than 2 hours.
What’s the best way to thaw frozen apple crumble?
Thaw frozen apple crumble overnight in the refrigerator. This prevents moisture loss. Then reheat before serving. Apple crumble can also be reheated directly from frozen by covering with foil and baking at 350°F until hot.
Can you freeze apple crumble after it’s been refrigerated?
Yes, you can safely freeze apple crumble after refrigerating it. Allow it to fully cool first, then wrap tightly and freeze within the recommended 3-5 day timeframe. Frozen apple crumble that has been previously refrigerated maintains quality and taste.
Conclusion
Refrigerating your leftover apple crumble is the best way to safely preserve it and prevent spoilage. Allow it to cool completely after baking, store in an airtight container in the fridge, and consume within 3-5 days for the best quality. Frozen apple crumble can keep for 2-3 months. With proper storage methods, you can enjoy apple crumble without having to make it fresh every time.