Are you craving a warm, comforting dessert but want to avoid refined sugar? This healthy apple crisp recipe is the perfect solution! Packed with the sweetness of naturally ripe apples and a satisfyingly crunchy oat topping, this recipe is surprisingly easy to make and utterly delicious. It's a guilt-free indulgence ideal for a cozy night in or a healthy dessert option for any occasion. This easy recipe is perfect for beginner cooks looking for quick dinner ideas or delicious dishes, but seasoned chefs will appreciate the fresh take on a classic. It's one of the best recipes for a healthy and homemade cooking experience.
Ingredients:
For the Apple Filling:
- 6 medium apples (Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala work well), peeled, cored, and sliced
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
For the Oat Topping:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil, melted
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a small (8x8 inch) baking dish.
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Prepare the apple filling: In a large bowl, gently toss the sliced apples with applesauce, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice. Ensure the apples are evenly coated.
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Make the oat topping: In a separate bowl, combine rolled oats, almond flour, chopped nuts, shredded coconut, melted coconut oil, and cinnamon. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed. The mixture should be crumbly.
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Assemble the crisp: Pour the apple filling into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the oat topping evenly over the apples.
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Bake: Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are tender. If the topping is browning too quickly, loosely cover the dish with aluminum foil for the last 15 minutes of baking.
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Cool and serve: Let the apple crisp cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm, perhaps with a dollop of unsweetened Greek yogurt or a scoop of your favorite sugar-free ice cream (optional).
Tips for the Best Healthy Apple Crisp:
- Choose your apples wisely: Tart apples like Granny Smith will provide a nice balance to the sweetness of the applesauce, while sweeter apples will offer a more naturally sugary filling.
- Don't overmix the topping: A slightly coarse topping will result in a crispier texture.
- Adjust spices to your taste: Feel free to add more or less cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice depending on your preference. A dash of ginger or cardamom can also add a delightful twist.
- For a gluten-free version: Ensure your oats are certified gluten-free.
Variations:
- Add berries: Toss in 1/2 cup of your favorite berries (blueberries, raspberries, or cranberries) to the apple filling for extra flavor and antioxidants.
- Use different nuts: Substitute the walnuts or pecans with almonds, hazelnuts, or macadamia nuts.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the topping for a hint of warmth.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Around 250-300
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 40-50g
- Protein: Around 5-7g
- Fat: Approximately 10-15g
Disclaimer: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
This healthy apple crisp is a delicious and satisfying dessert that’s perfect for anyone looking for a healthier way to enjoy this classic treat. It's a simple, easy recipe that's sure to become a family favorite!