What’s the Difference Between a Cobbler, a Crisp, and a Crumble?

And a slump, grunt, buckle, and betty?

A delicious cherry crisp—or is it a crumble? Debate the matter over a warm, freshly baked piece, served with ice cream. Anna Shepulova/Shutterstock

The first time anyone asked me to expound on the subject of summer fruit cobblers, crisps, and crumbles, my first thought was, “Oh, let’s not and say we did.” 

Why? Certainly not because the dishes aren’t worthy. Each, in its own way, is a scrumptious delight.