Spiced Apple and Peach Crumble with Dark Chocolate Ganache

This warm and comforting crumble elevates the classic dessert with the sharp warmth of ginger and a decadent dark chocolate ganache. The sweet, spiced fruit filling contrasts beautifully with the rich chocolate, creating a memorable and satisfying treat.

Ingredients

• For the Crumble:

* 1 cup All-purpose flour

* ½ cup Rolled oats

* ½ cup Light brown sugar

* ½ teaspoon Ground cinnamon

* ¼ teaspoon Ground ginger

* ½ cup (1 stick) Cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes

* Pinch of Salt

• For the Fruit Filling:

* 2 medium Apples, peeled, cored, and sliced

* 2 medium Peaches, peeled, pitted, and sliced

* ¼ cup Granulated sugar

* 1 tablespoon Lemon juice

* 1 teaspoon Ground ginger

* 1 tablespoon Cornstarch

• For the Dark Chocolate Ganache:

* 4 ounces Dark chocolate, finely chopped

* ½ cup Heavy cream

* 1 tablespoon Unsalted butter

* Pinch of Salt

Method

1. Prepare the Crumble: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, ginger, and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and use your fingertips or a pastry blender to cut the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Set aside in the refrigerator.
2. Prepare the Fruit Filling: In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, peaches, granulated sugar, lemon juice, and ginger. Sprinkle the cornstarch over the fruit and toss gently to coat.
3. Assemble and Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Pour the fruit filling into a 8x8 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the chilled crumble topping evenly over the fruit.
4. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the fruit filling is bubbly.
5. Prepare the Ganache: While the crumble is baking, make the dark chocolate ganache. Place the chopped dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl.
6. In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let it sit for 1 minute to soften the chocolate.
7. Add the butter and salt, and whisk gently until the chocolate is completely melted and the ganache is smooth and glossy.
8. Serve: Let the crumble cool slightly before serving. Drizzle generously with the dark chocolate ganache. Serve warm.

Chef's Note

For an extra layer of flavour, toast the rolled oats lightly in a dry pan before adding them to the crumble mixture. This will enhance their nutty flavour and add a satisfying crunch to the topping.