Crumbling is a custard and crumble stall that is usually found at Tynemouth Market, where it has built up a bit of a cult following. I didn't manage to try it there, but I was lucky enough to spot them at the Newcastle Christmas Market, and on a cold winter day it felt like fate.
I went for a half and half pot, which cost £7, and honestly it was money well spent. One side was classic apple, soft and warming, and the other side was mixed berries with just the right amount of sharpness. Both were topped with a spiced crumble that had a lovely crunch, and then smothered in hot custard.
What really surprised me was how well the flavours worked together. Once you mixed the apple and berries, they almost became one flavour rather than two separate ones. The sweetness and sharpness balanced each other so well that every spoonful tasted perfectly rounded, especially with the custard and crumble mixed through.
The balance was spot on. The fruit was sweet but not sickly, the crumble added texture and warmth, and the custard pulled everything together into something that felt incredibly comforting. It was the kind of dessert that makes you slow down and really enjoy each spoonful, especially when you are stood in the middle of a busy Christmas market with cold hands. It also tastes quite nice when it has cooled down for those who don't like hot custard.
There is something very nostalgic about crumble and custard. It feels familiar and homely, but Crumbling manages to make it feel special without overcomplicating it. It is simple food done really well, and that is probably why people queue for it.
If you ever find yourself at Tynemouth Market or spot Crumbling popping up at an event like the Newcastle Christmas Market, I would absolutely recommend stopping by. It is warm, filling, and genuinely delicious, and sometimes that is exactly what you want.
I know for a fact that next time I see that stall, I will be going straight back for another pot.
What is your favourite comfort food?
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