The fruit crumble has earned a dedicated following. Few can resist the deliciously satisfying contrast of textures between the soft, baked filling and the crunchy yet melt-in-the-mouth topping. Equally delicious is the crumble’s close relative, the cobbler. With its layer of airy scone, it’s the perfect comfort food.
Crumbles & Cobblers by Maxine Clark provides a delectable collection of recipes offering a variety of different fillings and tastes. It’s only fruit? Think again. In the chapter on crumbles you’ll find the wickedly indulgent Caramelised Pear and Bourbon Crumble and a spicy Ginger and Nectarine Crumble, or if your taste is for something more traditional, try the Simple Plum Crumble.
Maxine Clark’s Cranberry Apple Cobbler is hard to beat, but in the ‘Cobblers’ section you’ll find plenty of inspiration. And for those who’d rather not share, there are delightful Little Raspberry and Rose Cobblers, made all the more perfect when served warm with thick cream.
There are more variations on the crumbles and cobblers theme in the chapter titled ‘Bettys, Crisps, Slumps and More’. Try the tropically fruity Pineapple Rum Betty with Coconut and Macadamia Nut Topping. While Cranberry Streusel Crisp or a rich Cherry Clafoutis offer the perfect grown-up take on the comforting pudding.
Finally, in the ‘On the Side’ section, Maxine offers simple recipes for tempting accompaniments to be poured over or added in a dollop on the side, including homemade Vanilla Ice Cream and Custard.
Illustrated with mouth-watering photography by Peter Cassidy, this recipe collection is an essential addition to any pudding lover’s bookshelf.
Crumbles & Cobblers, by Maxine Clark, with photography by Peter Cassidy, is published by Ryland, Peters & Small, price £8.99
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