Apple crumble is a classic fall dessert made by topping sliced apples with a sweet crumbly topping and baking it until golden brown. Like most baked goods, leftover apple crumble can be stored in the refrigerator for several days. However, the quality and freshness will start to decline after a day or two. Here is a comprehensive guide on how long cooked apple crumble lasts in the fridge and how to tell if it has gone bad.
How Long Does Cooked Apple Crumble Last in the Fridge?
Properly stored, cooked apple crumble will generally stay fresh in the refrigerator for 3-5 days. The crumbly topping will start to lose its texture after that time, while the apples will become mushy. Here are some general guidelines for apple crumble fridge life:
- Freshly baked apple crumble: 3-5 days
- Cooked apple crumble leftovers: 3-4 days
- Pre-made unbaked apple crumble: 1-2 days
The fridge life depends on several factors like recipe ingredients, storage container, and fridge temperature. Refrigerating apple crumble properly in airtight containers helps extend its shelf life. Meanwhile, colder fridge temperatures (around 34-35°F) slow down food spoilage.
How to Tell if Apple Crumble has Gone Bad
You can use these simple tips to determine if leftover apple crumble has spoiled and is unsafe to eat:
- Check for mold growth – Visible mold spots or fuzz on the crumble topping or apples is a sign of spoilage. Discard moldy apple crumble.
- Observe texture – The crumble topping will become soggy, while the apple filling turns watery when old. Edible apple crumble should be slightly moist but not wet.
- Smell – Fresh apple crumble smells sweet and appley. Foul, sour or alcoholic odors indicate spoilage.
- Taste – Off flavors like sourness, bitterness, or mustiness are red flags for spoiled apple crumble.
- Appearance – Dry, cracked crumble topping or discolored apple filling also means the dessert is past its prime.
As a general rule of thumb, apple crumble that smells or tastes unpleasant should be discarded. When in doubt, remember it’s better to be safe than sorry.
How to Store Cooked Apple Crumble
Proper storage is key to maximizing the fridge life of leftover apple crumble. Follow these tips:
- Let the apple crumble cool completely before refrigerating. Covering while still hot can create moisture that leads to spoilage.
- Store apple crumble in an airtight container. Tightly sealing prevents drying out and fridge odors from seeping in.
- Glass or plastic containers work best. Avoid aluminum foil or plastic wrap which can stick to the crumble topping.
- Eat refrigerated apple crumble within 3-5 days for best quality.
- Do not freeze cooked apple crumble, as the topping will become soggy when thawed.
How Long Does Uncooked Apple Crumble Last in the Fridge?
Unbaked apple crumble assembled in a baking dish will keep for 1-2 days when covered and refrigerated. The fresh apples may weep some liquid and the crumble topping can become moist in the fridge. For longer storage, store the dry ingredients separately from the apple filling.
You can prep apple crumble components in advance:
- Crumble topping – Keeps 5-7 days refrigerated
- Apple filling – Keeps 3-4 days refrigerated
Assemble the apple crumble just before baking for the very best results. Simply scatter the crumble topping over the apple filling and bake as your recipe directs.
What Is the Best Way to Reheat Apple Crumble?
While apple crumble is best fresh out of the oven, leftovers can be revived. Here are some reheating methods:
- Oven – Bake individual portions covered in foil at 300°F for 10-15 minutes until hot.
- Microwave – Microwave single servings for 30 seconds at a time until heated through.
- Stovetop – Gently reheat apple crumble in a saucepan over medium-low heat on the stovetop.
Avoid reheating the entire apple crumble dish, as this can lead to uneven heating. Reheat only what you plan to eat within 2-3 days and don’t re-refrigerate.
How Long Does Baked Apple Crumble Last at Room Temperature?
Baked apple crumble has a relatively short shelf life at room temperature compared to refrigeration. It will stay fresh for:
- 2 hours at room temperature
- 1 day maximum if kept covered
The high moisture content of apples means refrigeration is necessary for storage beyond a few hours after baking. Leaving apple crumble out for too long allows mold growth and bacteria to multiply quickly.
Signs Your Apple Crumble Has Gone Bad
Look for these signs that indicate your leftover apple crumble has spoiled and should be discarded:
- Mold growth – fuzzy spots or cloudiness on crumble topping
- Shrunken or dried out crumble topping
- Watery, mushy apple filling
- Sour smell
- Off taste
- Discolored apples
If your apple crumble shows any of those warning signs, it has likely exceeded its shelf life and begun to spoil. Sticking to the recommended 3-5 day fridge life will keep apple crumble tasting fresh. When reheating, check the texture and taste before serving.
How Long Does an Unbaked Apple Crumble Last in the Freezer?
While baked apple crumble doesn’t freeze well, you can successfully freeze an uncooked apple crumble for up to 3 months and simply bake it later. To freeze:
- Prepare apple crumble filling and crumble topping up to 2 days before freezing.
- Assemble apple crumble in a casserole dish or aluminum pan lined with parchment paper.
- Cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
- When ready to bake, remove frozen crumble from freezer and fridge overnight to thaw.
- Preheat oven and bake as recipe directs, adding 5-10 minutes to baking time.
Freezing unbaked apple crumble allows you to enjoy freshly baked apple crumble whenever the craving strikes!
Tips for Making Leftover Apple Crumble Just Like New
Try these tips for reviving refrigerated apple crumble:
- Moisten dry crumble – Brush a little milk or beaten egg on the crumble before reheating if it appears dried out.
- Prevent soggy crumble – Place crumble on a baking sheet or pan before reheating to crisp up the topping.
- Freshen up apples – Toss apple filling with a bit of sugar, lemon juice or spice before reheating.
- Upgrade texture – Sprinkle extra crumble mixture on top or fold in nuts before reheating for added crunch.
- Serve warm – The hot temperature enhances the flavor and texture of refrigerated apple crumble.
With proper storage and some tweaking, leftover apple crumble can taste nearly as good as the fresh original version.
Common Questions
Can you freeze apple crumble after baking?
Baked apple crumble does not freeze well. The high moisture content of the apples causes the topping to become soggy once thawed. It’s best to fresh bake apple crumble as needed.
Can you refrigerate unbaked apple crumble overnight?
Yes, unbaked apple crumble can be assembled in a baking dish, covered, and refrigerated overnight before baking. Allow it to sit at room temperature for 15-30 minutes before putting it into the oven.
How long does apple crumble last at room temperature?
Baked apple crumble will only stay fresh for about 2 hours at room temperature. To extend this to 1 day maximum, keep it tightly covered. Refrigeration is still best for storing any leftovers.
Can you reheat apple crumble in the microwave?
Leftover apple crumble can be reheated in the microwave, but it tends to make the apples mushy. Reheat individual portions at 30 second intervals until warmed through.
Should you refrigerate apple crumble overnight after baking?
Yes, it is important to refrigerate apple crumble within 2 hours of baking to prevent spoilage. Transfer to an airtight container once completely cooled and store in the fridge for 3-5 days.
Conclusion
Apple crumble is best when freshly baked and served. Any leftovers can keep for 3-5 days refrigerated. Look for signs of spoilage like mold, off odors, dryness, or mushiness before eating refrigerated apple crumble. Reheating individual portions as needed can help revive apple crumble almost like new. With proper storage in the fridge or freezer, you can enjoy apple crumble even days after baking.