Jamie Oliver Plum Crumble Recipe [Tips & Tricks]

I still remember the first time I tried Jamie Oliver’s Plum Crumble. It was a chilly autumn afternoon. The kind where the crisp air nudges you to bake something warm and comforting. The moment I took a bite, the sweet-tart plums paired with the crunchy crumble made me feel instantly cozy. That rustic, homey dessert felt like a warm hug on a plate.

If you’re anything like me and love desserts that are both simple and packed with flavor, Jamie’s Plum Crumble is a must-try. It’s easy to make, incredibly satisfying, and perfect for any season when plums are ripe.

Jamie Oliver’s Plum Crumble Recipe

Jamie Oliver’s Plum Crumble is all about celebrating fresh, juicy plums topped with a buttery, crunchy crumble. It’s rustic and unpretentious-no fancy ingredients, just pure, honest flavors. The magic is in the contrast:

• Soft, tender fruit bubbling underneath
• Sweet, crispy topping that melts in your mouth

Jamie’s style keeps it straightforward but flavorful. He often talks about how seasonal fruit and good-quality butter make all the difference, and this recipe really showcases that.

Ingredients Needed

When I gather ingredients for this crumble, I always make sure everything is fresh and ready to bring out the best taste. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Plums: About 1 kg, ripe but firm
• Caster sugar: 100g, for sweetness and to balance the tartness
• Plain flour: 150g, the base of the crumble topping
• Cold unsalted butter: 100g, diced – the key for that perfect crumble texture
• Ground cinnamon: A pinch, optional but adds warmth
• Brown sugar or demerara sugar: 50g, for extra crunch and caramel notes

Optional extras you might want to have:

• A splash of lemon juice to brighten the plums
• A handful of chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts for crunch

How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Plum Crumble

This is where the fun really begins. I love how simple yet rewarding this process is. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

• Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
• Prepare the fruit: Wash and halve the plums. Remove the stones.
• Mix the plums: Toss the plum halves with caster sugar and a squeeze of lemon juice in a large bowl. Set aside to let the juices start to release.
• Make the crumble: In another bowl, rub the cold butter into the flour with your fingertips until it resembles coarse breadcrumbs.
• Add sugars and spice: Stir in the brown sugar and cinnamon gently.
• Assemble: Place the sugared plums in a baking dish. Spread the crumble topping evenly over the fruit.
• Bake: Cook for 35-40 minutes until the crumble is golden and the fruit is bubbling.

The smell while it’s baking is irresistible. It fills your kitchen with warmth and sweet spice.

Ingredient Science Spotlight

Here’s where things get interesting. Why does cold butter make such a difference? When you rub cold butter into flour, you create tiny pockets of fat. During baking, these pockets melt and release steam. This steam makes the crumble topping light and flaky instead of dense.

The sugar doesn’t just sweeten – it also caramelizes during baking. That’s what gives the topping a beautiful golden color and those little crunchy bits.

And plums? Their natural pectin helps thicken the fruit juices as they cook, creating that perfect saucy base that complements the crumble.

Expert Tips

I’ve learned a few tricks over time to take this recipe to the next level:

• Don’t overmix the crumble: Keep some larger butter bits for extra crunch.
• Use seasonal, ripe plums: They offer the best balance of sweetness and tartness.
• Add a splash of citrus: Lemon or orange juice brightens the fruit flavors.
• Serve warm: Crumble tastes best fresh from the oven with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or custard.
• Try different sugars: Mixing white and brown sugar adds depth.

Recipe Variations

If you like mixing it up, Jamie’s Plum Crumble can be easily adapted:

• Add oats or nuts to the crumble for extra texture.
• Mix fruits: Combine plums with berries or apples for a multi-fruit crumble.
• Spice it up: Add ginger or nutmeg for a different flavor profile.
• Vegan twist: Use coconut oil or vegan butter instead of regular butter.

Each tweak adds a little personal spin without losing the heart of the dish.

Final Words

Making Jamie Oliver’s Plum Crumble feels like a small celebration of seasonal fruit and simple baking magic. It’s a dish that invites you to slow down and enjoy the process as much as the result.

If you want a dessert that’s fuss-free, delicious, and guaranteed to bring smiles, this crumble ticks all the boxes. Trust me, once you try it, it’ll become a go-to in your kitchen.

FAQs

What Makes Jamie Oliver’s Plum Crumble Recipe Special?

Jamie’s crumble is packed with juicy plums, a perfect balance of sweetness and tang. He uses a unique blend of spices to elevate the flavor.

Can I Use Other Fruits In Jamie Oliver’s Plum Crumble Recipe?

Yes, you can swap plums for other fruits like apples, peaches, or mixed berries. Just adjust the sugar depending on the fruit’s sweetness.

How Do I Make Jamie Oliver’s Crumble Topping Extra Crispy?

For a crispy topping, use cold butter and rub it into the flour until it resembles breadcrumbs. Adding oats can give it an extra crunch.

Is Jamie Oliver’s Plum Crumble Recipe Easy To Make?

Yes! It’s simple to prepare with minimal ingredients. The most time-consuming part is chopping the plums, but it’s worth it.

Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Plum Crumble Ahead Of Time?

You can prep the crumble the night before. Just store the topping separately and assemble before baking.

What Should I Serve With Jamie Oliver’s Plum Crumble?

Serve it with vanilla ice cream, custard, or whipped cream for a delicious dessert.

Can I Freeze Jamie Oliver’s Plum Crumble?

Yes, you can freeze it after baking. Just allow it to cool completely before wrapping it up in foil or an airtight container.

How Long Does Jamie Oliver’s Plum Crumble Take To Cook?

It usually takes about 40 to 45 minutes to bake at 180°C (350°F), or until the topping is golden brown.

What Type Of Plums Should I Use For Jamie Oliver’s Plum Crumble?

Use ripe but firm plums, like Victoria plums. They hold their shape and provide the right balance of sweetness and tartness.

Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Plum Crumble Gluten-free?

Yes, just swap the regular flour for a gluten-free alternative and make sure your oats are certified gluten-free.