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If you’re looking for a warm, comforting dessert that captures the essence of fall, this Swedish Plum Crumble is a must-try! After moving to Sweden, I was introduced to this kind of crustless pie and thought, “What is this? Where’s the bottom crust?” But it blew my mind with its simplicity, ease of preparation and ofcourse taste. I’ve usually had apple versions, but when I visited a friend’s house sometime back and she made this pie using plums, I loved it! Inspired by her creation, I decided to make my own version.

A Brief History of Swedish Crumble Pies

Crumble pies, or “smulpaj” as they are called in Sweden, are a beloved staple in Swedish cuisine, particularly during the fall when fresh fruits are abundant. Historically, these pies were created as a way to utilize seasonal fruits that might otherwise go to waste. The dish likely gained popularity due to its straightforward preparation and the deliciously sweet results, making it a favorite among families and gatherings.

In Sweden, crumble pies are traditionally made with various fruits, including apples, berries, and, of course, plums. The beauty of a crumble lies in its versatile nature; the topping is typically a simple blend of butter, sugar, and flour, often enhanced with oats for added texture. This method of preparation allows the natural flavors of the fruit to shine through, making it a comforting dessert that pairs perfectly with vanilla sauce or a dollop of whipped cream.

Why This Plum Crumble is a Must-Try

This particular Swedish Plum Crumble features juicy plums enveloped in a sweet, cinnamon filling, topped with a buttery, crunchy crumble. It’s incredibly easy to make and requires just seven ingredients—most of which you probably already have in your pantry!

The lack of a bottom pie crust means you can skip the intimidating steps of blind baking and crust-making. Instead, you’ll find that the crumble comes together quickly and easily, making it an excellent option for beginners or anyone looking for a low-effort dessert.

Ingredients

For the Filling:

• 1 kg plums, quartered and pitted: Plums are the star of this dish, offering a juicy and tart flavor that balances perfectly with the sweetness of the crumble.
• 1 tbsp all-purpose flour: This helps thicken the juices released by the plums during baking.
• 2 tbsp white sugar: White sugar is typically sweeter and more neutral in flavor. It helps to enhance the natural sweetness of the plums without adding any additional flavor notes.
• 2 heaping tbsp brown sugar: Brown sugar contains molasses, which adds a rich, caramel-like flavor to the filling. This depth of flavor complements the tartness of the plums and provides a nice contrast to the sweetness from the white sugar.
• 1 tsp cinnamon powder: A warm spice that enhances the flavors of the plums.

Pro Tip: Using both types of sugar allows for adjustments based on the ripeness and sweetness of the plums. If the plums are particularly tart, you can increase the amount of brown sugar to add more depth and sweetness to the filling without making it overly sugary.

For the Crumble:

• 150g cold unsalted butter, diced: Cold butter creates a flaky texture in the crumble.
• 150g all-purpose flour: The base of the crumble, providing structure.
• 75g oats: Adds a chewy texture and heartiness to the topping.
• 1/2 cup heaping brown sugar: Balances the flavors and adds moisture to the crumble.
• Pinch of salt: Enhances all the flavors in the dish.
• 1 tsp cinnamon powder: Ties in the warm spices, echoing the flavors in the filling.

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, mix together the plums, flour, white sugar, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Set aside to allow the ingredients to combine.
3. Make the Crumble: In another bowl, combine the cold diced butter, flour, oats, brown sugar, salt, and cinnamon. Use your fingers to mix until you achieve a wet, sandy texture.
4. Assemble the Crumble: Grease your baking dish with butter, then place the plum filling inside. Evenly sprinkle the crumble mixture over the top, covering the filling completely.
5. Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake on the lowest rack for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and continue to bake for another 15 minutes, or until the crumble is golden brown.
6. Serve: The plums should be perfectly cooked but not mushy, creating a delicious sauce. Serve warm with vanilla sauce for an extra treat!

Notes

• The plums will release their juices during baking, resulting in a delicious sauce. If you prefer a less saucy crumble, you can omit any extra liquid from the filling when adding to the baking dish

• For a twist, you can add a handful of nuts or seeds to the crumble for added texture.
• This crumble can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, but it’s best served warm with Vanilla Sauce or even Cold Vanilla Icecream
• Use heaping brown sugar for the filling and crumble, adjusting according to your preference, especially if the plums are sour, for the perfect balance.

A Perfect Fall Treat

This Swedish Plum Crumble is the epitome of comfort food, perfect for cozy evenings or gatherings with friends and family. With its easy preparation and delightful flavors, it’s no wonder this dish has become a cherished favorite in Swedish homes. Whether you’re using plums or experimenting with other fruits, you’re bound to create a dish that warms your heart and satisfies your sweet tooth.

So grab those plums and get baking—your taste buds will thank you!