Plum-Almond Crumble

Steps

1. 1

   Heat the oven to 375°F (190 °C). Wash the plums, then cut them in half with a paring knife. Remove and discard the pits; larger plums may be quartered.

2. 2

   Place the plums cut-side up in a deep 9- or 10-inch pie pan. It is fine if they do not all fit in one layer. Sprinkle the plums lightly with granulated sugar.

3. 3

   Make the topping. Place the flour, brown sugar, butter, slivered almonds, almond extract and salt in a medium bowl. Using your fingertips, work the mixture until it resembles rough, pea-size crumbs.

4. 4

   Mound the topping loosely over the plums, covering the entire surface. Bake for about 40 minutes, until the topping is nicely browned and the fruit is oozing.

   Start 40-minute timer
5. 5

   Let the crumble cool slightly, or serve it at room temperature. Serve with a dollop of crème fraîche or barely sweetened softly whipped cream, if desired.