Pillsbury Biscuits: The Unexpected Star of Apple Cinnamon Crumble

Pillsbury Biscuits Apple Cinnamon Crumble: An Effortlessly Delicious & Healthy Dessert

Are you perpetually searching for that perfect warm dessert that combines the nostalgic comfort of apple pie with the delightful ease of a quick bake? Look no further! This Pillsbury Biscuits Apple Cinnamon Crumble is a true revelation for anyone who loves hearty, flavorful sweets without the fuss. Infused with the irresistible aroma of cinnamon and bursting with tender apple pieces, this “bubble up” dessert quickly became a household favorite. It’s incredibly simple to prepare, yet the combination of sweet apples, a light biscuit base, and a crunchy crumble topping creates pure magic. Prepare to watch it disappear in record time – it’s that good!

What makes this apple cinnamon crumble even more appealing is its smart approach to indulgence. Each serving is perfectly portioned and comes in at a mere 8 Weight Watchers points, making it an excellent choice for those mindful of their diet, as well as anyone simply looking for a dessert that feels wholesome. It’s a comforting, aromatic treat that’s ideal for chilly evenings, festive gatherings, or anytime you crave a sweet, warm hug in a bowl. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, you can ditch complicated recipes and whip up this scrumptious Pillsbury biscuits apple cinnamon crumble with absolute confidence. You’ll be glad you did.

Warm Pillsbury Biscuits Apple Cinnamon Crumble in a baking dish

Three Irresistible Reasons to Make This Apple Cinnamon Crumble!

1. It Offers Unparalleled Comfort and Warmth

There’s something inherently comforting about a warm, fruit-filled dessert, especially as the temperatures drop. Fruit cobblers and crumbles are beloved for their ability to warm you from the inside out, offering a cozy embrace with every bite. This Pillsbury Biscuits Apple Cinnamon Crumble captures that essence perfectly. It provides all the hearty, flavorful goodness you’d expect from a traditional cobbler but with a lighter, more manageable profile. The tender apples and soft biscuit pieces create a delightful texture, making it an ideal dessert to chase away the cold and bring a smile to your face. It’s the ultimate comfort food for any season, but particularly during the autumn and winter months.

2. Packed with Nutrients, Not Excessive Sugar

Unlike many indulgent desserts that are loaded with sugar and empty calories, this recipe offers a refreshing change. By utilizing four large apples, you’re incorporating a significant dose of healthy vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber into your treat. Apples are known for their numerous health benefits, including supporting digestion and providing antioxidants. Furthermore, compared to most crumble recipes that call for cups of sugar, this version only requires a few tablespoons. This mindful approach to ingredients means you can enjoy a delicious dessert that satisfies your sweet tooth without the guilt. It’s a smart way to indulge, offering a wholesome option for your family.

3. A Hearty Dessert Perfect for Family Gatherings

Feeding a family can sometimes feel like a daunting task, especially when it comes to satisfying everyone’s dessert cravings. This Pillsbury Biscuits Apple Cinnamon Crumble is designed to serve a hungry crowd, boasting six generous servings. Its inviting aroma and universally loved flavors of apple and cinnamon make it a surefire hit with both children and adults. It’s an excellent choice for family dinners, potlucks, holiday celebrations, or simply a weekend treat. The simplicity of the recipe means you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying precious moments with your loved ones, making memories around a warm, delicious dessert.

Close-up of Pillsbury Biscuits Apple Cinnamon Crumble with golden topping

Essential Ingredients for Your Pillsbury Biscuits Apple Cinnamon Crumble

One of the best aspects of this recipe is its short and accessible ingredient list. You likely have many of these staples in your pantry already, making this a spontaneous dessert option for those sudden cravings. Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful apple cinnamon crumble:

  • 1 (7.5 oz) package of Pillsbury biscuits: Opt for the regular or “flaky layers” variety, often found in a 4-value pack. These pre-made biscuits are the secret to the recipe’s incredible ease and unique “bubble up” texture.
  • 3 tablespoons icing sugar or confectionery sugar: This fine sugar is crucial for creating the sweet, glossy coating that the biscuit pieces will be dipped in, ensuring a delightful sweetness throughout.
  • 1 teaspoon melted butter (for the glaze): A small amount of butter adds richness to the biscuit glaze, enhancing its flavor and helping it adhere beautifully.
  • 1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon water: Used to thin out the icing sugar and melted butter into a pourable glaze for the biscuit pieces. Adjust slightly if needed to achieve a good coating consistency.
  • 4 large apples, peeled and diced: I prefer Granny Smith apples for their tartness, which balances the sweetness of the crumble perfectly. However, any firm apple like Honeycrisp, Gala, or Fuji will work wonderfully. Peeling ensures a smooth texture, and dicing them into roughly ¾-inch pieces allows for even cooking.
  • ½ tablespoon brown sugar: This adds a deeper, molasses-rich sweetness to the apple filling, complementing the cinnamon beautifully.
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon: The star spice of this dessert, cinnamon provides that classic warm, aromatic flavor that pairs so perfectly with apples.

For the Irresistible Crumb Topping:

A good crumble topping is what truly elevates this dessert, adding a delightful textural contrast. Here’s what you’ll need for that golden, buttery crunch:

  • 2 tablespoons white sugar: Provides the sweetness for the crunchy topping.
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Forms the base of the crumble, allowing it to achieve that perfect crumbly texture when mixed with butter.
  • 1 tablespoon melted butter (for the crumble): Binds the sugar and flour together, creating the quintessential crumbly texture. Make sure it’s just melted, not hot.

Ingredients laid out for Pillsbury Biscuits Apple Cinnamon Crumble

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Pillsbury Biscuits Apple Cinnamon Crumble

Creating this delicious apple cinnamon crumble is incredibly straightforward, even for novice bakers. Follow these simple steps for a dessert that tastes like it took hours, but only requires minutes of active prep time:

  1. Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Then, take a 9×13-inch casserole dish and generously spray it with nonstick cooking spray. This ensures your crumble doesn’t stick and makes for easy serving and cleanup.
  2. Whip Up the Biscuit Glaze: In a small mixing bowl, combine the 3 tablespoons of icing sugar (or confectionery sugar), 1 teaspoon of melted butter (for the glaze), and 1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon of water. Whisk these ingredients together until you achieve a smooth, slightly thick, and glossy glaze.
  3. Prepare and Coat the Biscuits: Open your package of Pillsbury biscuits. Each biscuit (typically 10 in a 7.5 oz package) should be cut into 6 bite-sized pieces. Once cut, dip each dough piece into the prepared icing glaze, ensuring it’s fully coated. Arrange these glazed biscuit pieces evenly across the bottom of your prepared casserole dish. They should form a single, relatively even layer.
  4. Create the Apple Filling: In a separate medium-sized bowl, combine your peeled and diced apples with the ½ tablespoon of brown sugar and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Toss gently until all the apple pieces are well coated with the spice and sugar mixture. Then, spoon these flavorful apples evenly over the biscuit dough layer in your casserole dish.
  5. Make the Crumb Topping: In another small bowl, mix the 2 tablespoons of white sugar and 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour. Stir these dry ingredients together, then pour in the 1 tablespoon of melted butter (for the crumble). Use a fork or your fingertips to mix until a crumbly texture forms. You want distinct crumbs, not a paste.
  6. Sprinkle the Topping: Evenly sprinkle the prepared crumb topping over the apple and dough layers in your casserole dish. Distribute it well so that every bite gets a bit of that delicious crunch.
  7. Bake to Golden Perfection: Place the casserole dish in your preheated oven and bake for approximately 35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown, the apples are tender and bubbly, and a toothpick inserted into a biscuit comes out mostly clean.
  8. Serve and Enjoy: Once baked, remove the crumble from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows it to set slightly. Cut it into 6 equal servings and savor this warm, aromatic, and incredibly delicious dessert!

Pillsbury Biscuits Apple Cinnamon Crumble ready for bakingPillsbury Biscuits Apple Cinnamon Crumble with a spoon taken out

Nutrition Information and Weight Watchers Points Breakdown

This Pillsbury Biscuits Apple Cinnamon Crumble is not only delicious but also remarkably balanced, especially for those tracking their intake. Below is the detailed nutrition information for one serving, along with a breakdown of Weight Watchers points, making it easier for you to plan your healthy indulgence.

Per Serving Nutrition Information (Makes 6 servings):

  • Calories: 246 kcal
  • Fat: 6 g
  • Saturated Fat: 2.84 g
  • Carbohydrates: 47 g
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Sugars: 25.42 g
  • Sodium: 396.33 mg
  • Protein: 3 g

Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should be used as an approximation. Individual results may vary based on exact ingredients and portion sizes.

Weight Watchers Points for Pillsbury Biscuits Apple Cinnamon Crumble:

One of the standout features of this recipe is its Weight Watchers friendliness. Using the WW app recipe creator, this delightful crumble comes out to just 8 points per serving. To help you understand how these points accumulate, here’s a breakdown of the points for the main ingredients:

  • Package of Pillsbury biscuits: 18 points
  • Icing sugar or confectionery sugar: 7 points
  • Melted butter (total for glaze and crumble): 6 points
  • Water: 0 points
  • Large apples, peeled and diced: 0 points (Apples are a ZeroPoint food on many WW plans)
  • Brown sugar: 2 points
  • Cinnamon: 0 points

Crumb Topping Ingredients (WW Points):

  • White sugar: 7 points
  • All-purpose flour: 2 points
  • Melted butter (already accounted for in total butter above)

A serving of Pillsbury Biscuits Apple Cinnamon Crumble on a plate

If you’re using an older version of Weight Watchers, you can refer to these points below:

  • Freestyle SP (blue & purple): 6 using WW recipe builder
  • Smart Points (green): 6 using SP calculator
  • Points Plus: 6 using PP calculator

This low-point count makes it an accessible and enjoyable dessert for everyone, regardless of their weight loss journey!

Exciting Ways to Customize This Recipe

While the classic Pillsbury Biscuits Apple Cinnamon Crumble is fantastic on its own, it also serves as a versatile base for various delicious modifications. Don’t hesitate to get creative and tailor it to your preferences:

  • Enhanced Serving Suggestions: For an extra special treat, consider serving your warm crumble with a scoop of low-sugar vanilla ice cream or a dollop of light whipped topping. The contrast of warm and cold, creamy and crunchy, will evoke memories of classic apple pie. A drizzle of light caramel sauce or a sprinkle of toasted pecans could also elevate the experience.
  • Fruit Variations: While apples are traditional, this recipe works beautifully with other fruits. Try a peach cinnamon crumble in the summer, or a mixed berry version for a burst of vibrant flavor. Pears, cherries, or even a combination of fruits like apple and cranberry would be equally delicious. Just ensure the fruit is diced to a similar size for even cooking.
  • Crumb Topping Boosters: Add extra texture and flavor to your crumble topping. Incorporate a tablespoon or two of rolled oats for a heartier crunch, or a handful of chopped nuts like walnuts or almonds. A pinch of nutmeg or allspice can also enhance the spice profile.
  • Glaze Alternatives: Instead of the simple icing sugar glaze for the biscuits, you could experiment with a maple-infused glaze for a different depth of flavor, or a touch of vanilla extract in the original glaze.
  • Spice It Up: If you love strong spice flavors, feel free to slightly increase the amount of cinnamon, or add a tiny dash of ground cloves or nutmeg to the apple mixture for a more complex autumnal profile.

Tips and Tricks for Making the Perfect Crumble

Achieving a flawless Pillsbury Biscuits Apple Cinnamon Crumble is easy, but a few key tips can ensure your dessert is absolutely perfect every time:

  • Proper Apple Prep: Ensure your apples are uniformly diced (about ¾-inch pieces). This guarantees they cook evenly and become tender without turning mushy. If you prefer a firmer apple texture, you can reduce the baking time by a few minutes.
  • Don’t Overmix the Crumb: When making the crumb topping, mix the ingredients until just combined and crumbly. Overmixing can lead to a doughy topping rather than distinct, crispy crumbs. Using cold butter (cut into small pieces and then cut into the flour/sugar) can also help if you want a more traditional, “cut-in” crumble, though melted butter is used here for simplicity.
  • Even Spreading is Key: Ensure both the glazed biscuit pieces and the apple mixture are spread evenly in the casserole dish. This allows for even baking and ensures every serving has a balanced mix of ingredients.
  • Storage and Shelf Life: This crumble stores beautifully. Once completely cooled, cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to seven days. While it might last that long, its deliciousness usually ensures it disappears much faster!
  • Freezing for Later: For longer storage, you can freeze the baked and cooled crumble. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.
  • Reheating Instructions: To reheat, simply place individual servings in the microwave for 30-60 seconds, or warm the entire dish in an oven preheated to 300°F (150°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Covering it loosely with foil can prevent the topping from over-browning.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use a different type of biscuit?

While Pillsbury biscuits (especially the 7.5 oz standard size) are recommended for their ease and specific texture, you could experiment with other brands of refrigerated biscuits. However, cooking times and the overall “bubble up” effect might vary slightly.

Do I have to peel the apples?

Peeling the apples is recommended for a smoother texture in the filling. Apple skins can become tough when baked, but if you prefer the added fiber and don’t mind the texture, you can leave them on. Just make sure to wash the apples thoroughly.

How can I make this crumble even healthier?

To further reduce sugar, you could decrease the amount of brown sugar in the apple mixture or use a sugar substitute designed for baking. You could also swap some of the white sugar in the crumble topping for a small amount of granular sugar substitute or incorporate more oats into the crumble for added fiber. Choosing a lower-fat biscuit option, if available, would also help.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can adapt this recipe to be gluten-free. You would need to use gluten-free refrigerated biscuits and substitute the all-purpose flour in the crumb topping with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Ensure your chosen blend includes xanthan gum or add ¼ teaspoon per cup of flour for best results.

What size baking dish can I use if I don’t have a 9×13?

A 9×9-inch square pan would also work, but the crumble will be thicker, and you might need to increase the baking time slightly (by 5-10 minutes). Keep an eye on it to prevent over-browning. You could also use two smaller round pie dishes. If adjusting the dish size, remember that the thickness of the layers will affect baking time.

More Delicious Recipes You’ll Enjoy

If you loved the simplicity and flavor of this apple cinnamon crumble, you might also enjoy these other fantastic recipes:

  • Asiago Chicken: A savory dish that’s bursting with flavor.
  • Prosciutto Mozzarella Chicken Rolls: Elegant yet easy, perfect for dinner.
  • Blueberry Cake Donuts: A delightful breakfast or brunch treat.

Pillsbury Biscuits Apple Cinnamon Crumble baked and golden

Close-up of fluffy Pillsbury Biscuits in apple cinnamon crumble

Final Thoughts: Your New Favorite Dessert Awaits!

This Pillsbury Biscuits Apple Cinnamon Crumble truly stands out as a dessert that delivers on all fronts: incredible flavor, comforting warmth, straightforward preparation, and a surprisingly health-conscious profile, especially for Weight Watchers members. It transforms simple ingredients into an extraordinary treat that’s perfect for any occasion, from a casual weeknight indulgence to a festive family gathering.

So, the next time you’re in the mood for a warm, aromatic dessert that’s guaranteed to impress without demanding hours in the kitchen, remember this recipe. It’s a testament to how easy and rewarding home baking can be. Give it a try, and let the delightful scents of apple and cinnamon fill your home. Don’t forget to share your creations! Mention @drizzlemeskinny or tag #drizzlemeskinny on social media. Happy baking!