Oh, how I love the magic a simple topping can bring to any dish! This Maple Brown Sugar Pecan Crumble Topping delivers that irresistible crunch and warm aroma, making everyday desserts feel like a special occasion. This easy pecan crumble topping recipe transforms ordinary baked goods into unforgettable family favorites, perfect for weeknight treats or holiday gatherings. It’s my tried-and-true method for a consistently delicious and versatile crumble that’s a true game-changer. Get ready for a buttery, nutty, maple-kissed crunch that will become your new secret ingredient for family dinners.

Ingredients for Your Maple Brown Sugar Pecan Crumble Topping
Core Ingredients:
- 1 cup (115g) Pecans, coarsely chopped (for hearty, buttery crunch).
- 1/2 cup (60g) All-Purpose Flour, plus extra if needed (creates classic crumble texture, or use unbleached).
- 1/2 cup (100g) Light Brown Sugar, packed (adds deep, molasses-rich sweetness, or dark brown sugar for more intensity).
- 2 Tbsp (30ml) Maple Syrup, pure (enhances warm, sweet notes of your Maple Brown Sugar Rubble).
- 1/2 cup (113g) Unsalted Butter, cold and cubed (crucial for perfect crisp, crumbly texture, or use salted and reduce added salt).
- 1/4 tsp Salt, fine sea salt (balances sweetness, brings out flavors).
- 1/2 tsp Ground Cinnamon, good quality (warm spice that complements pecans beautifully).
Optional Add-ins & Smart Swaps:
- 1/4 cup Rolled Oats: For extra texture and chewiness.
- Pinch of Ground Nutmeg or Cardamom: A hint of extra warmth for the pecan crumble topping.
- Gluten-Free Flour Blend: Easy swap for a gluten-free pecan crumble topping.
- Vegan Butter: For a dairy-free version.
- Other Nuts: Walnuts or almonds can replace or supplement pecans.
Premium/Healthy Variations:
- Organic Pecans: For richer flavor and healthy fats.
- Local, Pure Maple Syrup: For superior taste and natural sweetness.
- Half Whole Wheat Flour: For added fiber and a heartier texture, great for easy healthy dinner ideas.
Seasonal or Freshness Notes:
Freshly toasted pecans offer a deeper, more aromatic flavor, making this a superior pecan crumble topping recipe. This Maple Brown Sugar Rubble pairs wonderfully with autumn apples and pears. It’s great for holiday baking with a touch of fresh orange zest. Always use high-quality butter for best results in this Maple Brown Sugar Pecan Crumble Topping.
Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions for Maple Brown Sugar Pecan Crumble
1. Prep Your Pecans:
If raw, spread pecans on a baking sheet and toast at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until they smell fragrant and lightly browned. Let cool slightly, then coarsely chop them.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, salt, and cinnamon until thoroughly blended and evenly distributed.
3. Cut in Butter:
Add cold, cubed unsalted butter to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry blender, two knives, or your fingertips to cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs with some pea-sized pieces of butter remaining. If it looks too warm or sticky, pop the bowl in the fridge for 5 minutes.
4. Add Maple Syrup:
Drizzle in the maple syrup and mix gently until just combined and the mixture forms distinct clumps, feeling slightly sticky. Be careful not to overmix; aim for distinct pieces of this glorious pecan crumble topping.
5. Ready to Use:
Your Maple Brown Sugar Pecan Crumble Topping is now ready to sprinkle over pies, crisps, muffins, or anything that needs a delicious crunch. The aroma alone is inviting!
Inline options for special diets:
- Low-carb option: Reduce brown sugar and use a sugar substitute; swap flour for almond flour to keep it a low-carb meal prep option.
- Vegan option: Use plant-based butter for a dairy-free treat.
Brief troubleshooting tips:
- Too crumbly/dry: Add a tiny bit more melted butter or maple syrup, one teaspoon at a time, until it clumps.
- Too wet/sticky: Add a tablespoon of flour until desired consistency is reached.
Best Times to Enjoy Your Maple Brown Sugar Pecan Crumble Topping & Storage Tips
This ‘pecan crumble topping recipe Maple Brown Sugar Rubble’ adds delightful crunch to many dishes, beyond just dessert. I often make a double batch for quick oatmeal or baked apples during the busy week; it’s a great time-saver!
Situations to Savor:- Pies, cobblers, sweet potato casserole.
- Baked apples or vanilla yogurt.
- Oatmeal, pancakes, French toast.
- Alongside fruit for school lunches.
- Fruit crisps, pies, muffins, ice cream.
- Yogurt, oatmeal, pancakes.
- Baked sweet potatoes.
- Fridge (Unbaked): 5 days, airtight.
- Freezer (Unbaked): 3 months, thaw.
- Reheat: Toast briefly to restore crispness.
Health, Nutrition & Lifestyle Benefits of This Pecan Crumble Topping
This crumble offers nutritional value, fitting various healthy lifestyles and easy dinner ideas.
Connect to diet & lifestyle needs:- Healthy Fats & Fiber: Pecans offer good fats and fiber for heart health.
- Energy Boost: A satisfying, energy-sustaining addition.
- Balanced Indulgence: Sweet treat with nut nutrition.
- Customizable: Adapts for low-carb, gluten-free, vegan.
- Adds Protein: Boosts protein in yogurt, great for high-protein snacks.
This ‘pecan crumble topping’ works for quick meal prep recipes and low-carb options with minor adjustments.

How This Recipe Matches Everyday Goals
Crafting this ‘pecan crumble topping recipe Maple Brown Sugar Rubble’ at home aligns with smart, efficient kitchen goals.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses pantry staples, more economical than store-bought.
- Time-Saving: Quick to make, prep this easy ‘pecan crumble topping’ ahead.
- Wellness Boost: Adds wholesome nuts to your family’s diet.
- Incredibly Versatile: Elevates breakfast to dinner desserts, great for quick meal prep.
Pro Tips and Adjustments with Pecan Crumble Topping
Maximize your ‘pecan crumble topping recipe’ flavor and texture with these refinements.
Technique Refinements:- Toasting Pecans: Toast for deeper, nuttier flavor in your ‘pecan crumble topping recipe’.
- Cold Butter: Ensures crispness.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix gently for a light, tender crumble.
- Warm Spices: Add nutmeg, allspice, or ginger.
- Citrus Zest: Orange or lemon brightens Maple Brown Sugar Rubble flavor.
- Nut-Free: Replace pecans with toasted oats/seeds.
- Less Sugar: Reduce brown sugar.
- Fun: Let kids help crush butter (supervised).
FAQs About This Pecan Crumble Topping Recipe
Curious about making the most of your ‘pecan crumble topping recipe Maple Brown Sugar Rubble’? Here are answers to common questions.
Is this pecan crumble topping good for weight loss?
In moderation, yes! Pecans offer healthy fats and fiber for satiety. Enjoy smaller portions to fit a balanced diet and support healthy eating habits effectively.
Where to buy quality pecans for this recipe?
Find fresh pecans in bulk bins at health food stores or pre-packaged at your grocery. Ensure they smell fresh, not rancid, for the best flavor in your ‘pecan crumble topping’.
Can I use this pecan crumble topping in meal prep plans?
Absolutely! Prepare a large batch and freeze it. It’s perfect for quick additions to yogurt, oatmeal, or baked fruit during the week, ideal for easy meal prep recipes.
How long does unbaked pecan crumble topping last in the fridge?
It lasts up to 5 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This allows convenient planning for family dinners or weeknight dessert assembly.
Can I make this pecan crumble topping vegan?
Yes, simply substitute unsalted butter with a high-quality plant-based butter alternative. Other ingredients are typically vegan, making this an easy dietary swap.
What desserts pair best with this Maple Brown Sugar Pecan Crumble Topping recipe?
It’s divine on apple pie, peach cobbler, pear crisp, or sweet potato casserole. I also love it on baked bananas with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Can I make this pecan crumble topping gluten-free?
Yes, easily! Just swap the all-purpose flour for your favorite 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, using the same amount. No other changes are needed for this versatile ‘pecan crumble topping’.
This ‘Maple Brown Sugar Pecan Crumble Topping recipe’ is your ticket to effortlessly delicious, family-approved desserts and snacks. It’s easy, versatile, and adds a perfect homemade touch to quick meals and healthy eating.
Try it for your next family dinner, or make a batch for quick meal prep this week – you won’t regret it! Save this recipe on Pinterest!
Print
pecan crumble topping recipe Maple Brown Sugar Rubble
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 8–10 servings 1x
- Diet: General
Description
This easy Maple Brown Sugar Pecan Crumble Topping adds an irresistible crunch and warm aroma to any dessert, transforming ordinary baked goods into special family favorites. It’s a versatile, buttery, nutty, maple-kissed crunch that’s simple to prepare.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (115g) Pecans, coarsely chopped
- 0.5 cup (60g) All-Purpose Flour (or unbleached)
- 0.5 cup (100g) Light Brown Sugar, packed (or dark brown sugar for more intensity)
- 2 Tbsp (30ml) Maple Syrup, pure
- 0.5 cup (113g) Unsalted Butter, cold and cubed (or salted, reduce added salt)
- 0.25 tsp Salt, fine sea salt
- 0.5 tsp Ground Cinnamon, good quality
Instructions
- Prep Pecans: If raw, spread pecans on a baking sheet and toast at 350F (175C) for 5-7 minutes until they smell fragrant and lightly browned. Let cool slightly, then coarsely chop them.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, salt, and cinnamon until thoroughly blended and evenly distributed.
- Cut in Butter: Add cold, cubed unsalted butter to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry blender, two knives, or your fingertips to cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs with some pea-sized pieces of butter remaining. (If it looks too warm or sticky, put the bowl in the fridge for 5 minutes).
- Add Maple Syrup: Drizzle in the maple syrup and mix gently until just combined and the mixture forms distinct clumps, feeling slightly sticky. (Be careful not to overmix; aim for distinct pieces).
- Ready to Use: Your Maple Brown Sugar Pecan Crumble Topping is now ready to sprinkle over pies, crisps, muffins, or anything that needs a delicious crunch.
Notes
This versatile crumble can be customized with 0.25 cup rolled oats or a pinch of ground nutmeg or cardamom. For dietary swaps, use gluten-free flour blend, vegan butter, or a sugar substitute with almond flour for a low-carb option. If the mixture is too dry, add a tiny bit more melted butter or maple syrup; if too wet, add a tablespoon of flour. Freshly toasted pecans and high-quality butter enhance the flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Category: Topping
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons (30g)
- Calories: 180 calories
- Sugar: 18 g
- Sodium: 80 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 25 mg
Keywords: easy dessert, pecan crumble, maple brown sugar, crunchy topping, baking, versatile, autumn, holiday, no-bake (after toasting)




