Healthy Apple Crisp is a delightful dessert that perfectly balances the sweetness of apples and the crunchiness of a wholesome oat topping. This recipe is not only simple to prepare but also uses healthier ingredients, making it a great choice for a cozy family gathering or a delicious weeknight treat. With warm spices and the comforting aroma of baked apples, it brings a sense of nostalgia while satisfying your sweet tooth in a healthier way.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 8
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 180
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fat: 6g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 50mg
Why Make This Healthy Apple Crisp
This Healthy Apple Crisp stands out because it combines great taste with nutritious ingredients. By opting for whole wheat flour and oats, you increase the fiber content, making it more satisfying and heart-healthy. Apples provide a natural sweetness and an array of vitamins, while the use of coconut sugar or brown sugar keeps it minimally processed. Enjoy this dessert without the worry of excessive sugar or unhealthy fats, making it an excellent choice for health-conscious individuals and families alike.
How to Make Healthy Apple Crisp
Ingredients:
- 4 cups apples, peeled and sliced
- 1 cup oats
- 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
- 1/2 cup brown sugar or coconut sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup butter or coconut oil, melted
Directions:
Step 1: Preparation
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s hot enough for baking the crisp. Meanwhile, in a large bowl, take the sliced apples and sprinkle them with cinnamon. Mix well to coat the apples evenly then transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish.
Step 2: Mixing
In another bowl, combine the oats, whole wheat flour, brown sugar, optional chopped nuts, and salt. Stir these dry ingredients together, ensuring they are well mixed for a consistent topping.
Step 3: Combining
Pour the melted butter or coconut oil and applesauce into the dry mixture. Use a wooden spoon or your hands to mix everything until it becomes crumbly. This process helps achieve that perfect crunchy topping everyone loves!
Step 4: Baking
Sprinkle the prepared oat mixture generously over the apples in the baking dish. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. Keep an eye out for a golden-brown top and tender apples—this is when it’s just right!
How to Serve Healthy Apple Crisp
Serve the Healthy Apple Crisp warm from the oven, preferably with a scoop of yogurt or a dollop of ice cream. It’s delicious on its own, but these toppings elevate it to a dessert that feels indulgent yet remains healthy. It’s perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or even as a comforting treat after dinner.
How to Store Healthy Apple Crisp
Let any leftovers cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For optimal freshness, consume the crisp within 3-5 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it for up to 2 months—just thaw it in the fridge before reheating.
Expert Tips for Perfect Healthy Apple Crisp
- Ensure the apples are firm for the best texture. Varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work wonderfully.
- Adjust the sweetness level by using less sugar if your apples are particularly sweet.
- Feel free to add spices like nutmeg or ginger for a different flavor profile.
- Experiment with different nuts or even seeds to customize the topping.
Delicious Variations
- Berry Apple Crisp: Mix in a cup of blueberries or raspberries for a fruity twist.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend in place of whole wheat flour.
- Spiced Up Version: Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the apple mixture for added warmth.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use frozen apples? Yes, frozen apples work, but slightly reduce the baking time, and allow for proper drainage after thawing.
- What kind of oats should I use? Rolled oats are best for texture, while quick oats will yield a softer topping.
- Is it okay to leave out the nuts? Absolutely! The crisp will still be delicious without nuts, or you can substitute with seeds if allergies are a concern.
- How can I make this vegan? Substitute the butter with coconut oil and use a plant-based yogurt for serving.
- Can I make this ahead of time? You can prepare the mixture ahead of time and bake it just before serving for the best results.
Conclusion
This Healthy Apple Crisp is a wonderful way to indulge your sweet tooth without the guilt. Packed with nutritious ingredients and bursting with flavor, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. The comforting smell of baked apples and spices will invite everyone to the table, and with its simple preparation, you’ll find yourself making this dessert again and again. Enjoy the wholesome goodness of this crisp, and don’t hesitate to explore your creative variations along the way!
Print
Healthy Apple Crisp
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful dessert that perfectly balances the sweetness of apples and the crunchiness of a wholesome oat topping, using healthier ingredients.
Ingredients
- 4 cups apples, peeled and sliced
- 1 cup oats
- 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
- 1/2 cup brown sugar or coconut sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup butter or coconut oil, melted
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, coat sliced apples with cinnamon and transfer to a greased baking dish.
- In another bowl, mix oats, whole wheat flour, brown sugar, optional nuts, and salt. Ensure they are well combined.
- Add melted butter or coconut oil and applesauce to the dry mixture, stirring until crumbly.
- Sprinkle the oat mixture over the apples. Bake in the oven for 30-35 minutes, until the top is golden-brown and apples are tender.
Notes
Serve warm with yogurt or ice cream. Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3-5 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
