You can’t be on social media and not have heard about Humble Crumble or seen some of their beautiful creations. What do they do? Crumble. A classic British dessert served in an innovative and aesthetic manner suitable for Instagram and TikTok. Very aesthetic and picturesque. Usually, with such instagram friendly spots, the taste may be lacking, but thankfully here it was not. Spoiled alert: the crumble was absolutely delicious. Read on for more about crumble and why humble crumble may do our favourite dessert in London.
Britain’s favourite dessert: The Crumble
The crumble, and possibly specifically the apple crumble, is arguably Britain’s favourite dessert, but where does it originate from? It is known to have come about during World War II due to food rationing. Alternatives of the apple pie were being discovered and thought up because of the complex, expensive and time consuming nature of a pie. And so the crumble was born. Simple in comparison, but still super delicious and heartwarming! It quickly became a national favourite and has likewise reached all corners of the world. Different variations of the traditional apple crumble can be found such as raspberry, blackcurrant and rhubarb. Essentially, it is a winter dessert – meant to feel comfortable and warm while satisfying that sweet craving. Some like it with warm custard, some with cold ice cream or whipped cream and some (like me) with both! It’s a dessert that is relatively easy to make and always crowd pleasing!
The world’s first crumble bar: Humble Crumble
Humble Crumble is the world’s first crumble bar. They’ve taken the humble crumble and made it into the forefront of the shop. They’ve glamourised this humble dessert by using artisanal flavours, innovative toppings and a picturesque setting. The shop is literally made for Instagram and TikTok! I love it. I haven’t felt like this about a place since Parker’s in Dubai. Impressed! Thankfully, they taste just as good as they look if not better actually! Also, look out for their seasonal limited edition crumbles: always super interesting. You can find them at Old Spitalfields Market and at Borough Market.
Kim, the founder, was inspired by the lack of an ice cream parlour’s winter alternative. Ice cream cools you down in the summer, but what heats you up and makes you feel all fuzzy and warm in the winter? This thought led to the birth of Humble Crumble! Every crumble is made to order depending on what and how you like it. This is my favourite thing about the place – you can customise the crumble from start to finish depending on your taste buds and preferences. Literally, two of you can order a crumble at the same time, but have two different distinctive tasting desserts. You can choose the fruit and the amount (or lack of), the type of crumble, and then jazz it up with funky toppings such as frozen vanilla custard or blowtorched marshmallow, or just keep it simple with freshly whipped cream or warm custard. They’ll make your concoction in front of you (perfect for Instagram/TikTok) and then right at the end you get a choice some more innovative toppings like rose petals. This ability to customise is so thoughtful. I love love this aspect.
Read more about them here.
Our experience
The right amount of crumble, the right amount of fruit, the right amount of cream and toppings on top. Some may find some of the toppings a little sweet, but, as mentioned, you’re able to adjust the different elements to suit your taste buds. This probably was the number 1 thing we had at the Old Spitalfields Market as it slightly just pipped the Neapolitan pizza to number 1 spot. It was just so delicious, warm and homely (as is the goal of a good crumble). Next time, I’d like to try cold cream to be sprayed on top as opposed to warm as I feel the contrast with the warm crumble would’ve been better. And it would’ve been even better, if that’s even possible.
All of their crumbles are suitable for halal diet with the exception of a few toppings – ask them for clarification before ordering.
Getting there
Nearest station: Liverpool Street
Nearest mosque: East London Mosque
Parking: Most if not all the roads behind the East London Mosque are free evenings and weekends, but there is literally a competition for parking spaces. So, be prepared to drive around in circles and wait till you find something to pounce on.
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