Warm & Cozy Cinnamon Plum Crumble: A Rustic Dessert Worth Savoring

There’s nothing quite like the rich, spiced aroma of cinnamon and fresh plums baking together under a golden crumble topping. This Cinnamon Plum Crumble is the ultimate cozy dessert—perfect for cool evenings, late-summer gatherings, or simply when you’re craving something sweet and satisfying without the fuss. The sweet-tart flavor of ripe plums pairs beautifully with the warm depth of cinnamon, and the oat crumble adds the perfect buttery crunch.

Whether you’re a home baker looking for a new favorite, or a beginner in search of a forgiving and impressive dish, this recipe is for you. With just a handful of pantry staples, you’ll have a comforting dessert ready in under an hour.

Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Plum Crumble

This recipe is a celebration of simplicity and flavor. Plums are often overlooked in the dessert world, but when baked, their vibrant flavor transforms into something utterly luxurious. This crumble:

• Requires basic ingredients you likely already have.

• Can be made in just one bowl and one baking dish.

• Is easy to customize with other fruits or add-ins.

• Is perfect for entertaining or meal prepping dessert ahead of time.

Best of all, it’s a rustic dish. No need to worry about presentation—just spoon it into bowls warm from the oven, and serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream.

Ingredients for Cinnamon Plum Crumble

Here’s what you’ll need:

• 6 plums, pitted and sliced

• 1/4 cup sugar

• 1 tsp cinnamon

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 1/2 cup rolled oats

• 1/2 cup butter, melted

• 1/4 cup brown sugar

Every ingredient plays a key role. The sugar and cinnamon bring out the natural juiciness of the plums, while the brown sugar in the topping adds a touch of molasses-like depth that’s irresistible with cinnamon.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking and helps the crumble crisp up beautifully.

2. Prepare the Plum Filling
   In your baking dish, toss the sliced plums with the white sugar and cinnamon. Arrange them in an even layer.

3. Make the Crumble Topping
   In a medium mixing bowl, combine the flour, oats, brown sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand and holds together when pinched.

4. Assemble and Bake
   Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the plum mixture. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the top is golden and the fruit is bubbling around the edges.

5. Cool Slightly and Serve
   Let the crumble rest for about 10 minutes before serving to allow the filling to thicken slightly.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Cutting board & sharp knife

• 9-inch square baking dish (or similar)

• Medium mixing bowl

• Measuring cups & spoons

• Spoon or spatula

• Oven mitts

Optional: A scoop for serving ice cream on top!

Storage & Leftovers

This crumble is delicious both fresh and reheated. Here’s how to store it properly:

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container or cover the baking dish with foil. Keeps well for up to 4 days.

• Freeze: Wrap individual portions or the whole crumble tightly. Freeze for up to 3 months.

• Reheat: For best texture, warm in the oven at 325°F for 10–15 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for 30–60 seconds.

Recipe Variations & Ingredient Swaps

The beauty of a crumble is its flexibility. Here are some fun and flavorful ways to tweak this recipe:

Fruit Variations

• Add apples or pears for extra texture.

• Mix in berries like blackberries or raspberries for added juiciness and color.

• Try nectarines or peaches in place of plums for a lighter flavor profile.

Topping Enhancements

• Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the topping for crunch.

• Mix in coconut flakes or chia seeds for a fiber boost.

• Stir in a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for extra spice depth.

Gluten-Free Option

• Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.

Vegan Option

• Replace butter with a high-quality vegan butter or melted coconut oil.

Serving Suggestions

Cinnamon Plum Crumble is best served slightly warm. Here are some delicious pairings:

With Toppings:

• A scoop of vanilla ice cream

• A dollop of whipped cream

• A drizzle of maple syrup or caramel sauce

With Drinks:

• A warm mug of chai tea or spiced cider

• A glass of red wine like Merlot or Zinfandel

• For brunch, pair with a latte or cappuccino

Expert Tips for the Best Crumble

• Use ripe but firm plums to ensure they hold their shape and provide the perfect balance of tart and sweet.

• Taste your fruit before baking—if it’s overly tart, consider adding an extra tablespoon of sugar.

• Let it rest after baking—this allows the juices to settle and makes serving cleaner.

• Don’t overmix the topping—it should be crumbly and loose, not a paste.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned or frozen plums?
Yes. If using canned, drain thoroughly. For frozen, thaw and pat dry to prevent excess moisture from affecting the topping.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Definitely! You can assemble the dish, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You can also bake ahead and reheat when ready to serve.

Can I reduce the sugar?
Yes—if your plums are especially sweet, feel free to cut back the white or brown sugar by 1–2 tablespoons.

Can I make individual servings?
Absolutely. Use ramekins or small baking dishes for single-serve crumbles. Baking time may be reduced by 5–10 minutes, so keep an eye on them.

Why is my topping not crunchy?
Make sure the butter is fully melted and evenly mixed into the flour and oats. Also, allow the crumble to bake until it’s truly golden—it may need a few extra minutes depending on your oven.

Final Thoughts

This Cinnamon Plum Crumble is a soul-warming, deliciously spiced dessert that comes together quickly with ingredients you likely have on hand. It’s a wonderful way to use seasonal fruit, and its versatility means you can enjoy it all year round with whatever’s fresh at the market. Plus, who can resist a dish that makes your kitchen smell like a bakery?

Share the Recipe & Stay Connected

If you try this Cinnamon Plum Crumble and love it, please share it with your friends and family—snap a pic, tag it on social media, or pass it along to fellow dessert lovers. And if you’d like more delicious, easy-to-follow recipes like this one, don’t forget to subscribe to the blog for weekly inspiration delivered straight to your inbox.

Happy baking!