Are you craving a warm, comforting dessert but watching your calorie intake? Then look no further! This low-calorie apple crumble recipe is the perfect solution. It delivers all the deliciousness of a classic crumble without the guilt, making it an ideal treat for healthy eaters seeking easy recipes and quick dinner ideas. This homemade cooking masterpiece is surprisingly simple to make, proving that delicious dishes don't have to be unhealthy. Get ready to enjoy a guilt-free indulgence!
Ingredients:
For the Apple Filling:
- 6 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp recommended), peeled, cored, and sliced
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1/4 cup sugar substitute (e.g., stevia, erythritol – adjust to your sweetness preference)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
For the Crumble Topping:
- 1/2 cup rolled oats (quick-cooking or old-fashioned)
- 1/4 cup whole wheat flour
- 1/4 cup almond flour
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 2 tablespoons sugar substitute (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened applesauce
- 2 tablespoons melted coconut oil
Instructions:
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Prepare the apples: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, lemon juice, sugar substitute, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cornstarch. Toss gently to coat evenly.
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Make the crumble topping: In a separate bowl, combine the rolled oats, whole wheat flour, almond flour, chopped nuts (if using), sugar substitute, and cinnamon. Stir in the applesauce and melted coconut oil until the mixture is crumbly.
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Assemble and bake: Pour the apple filling into an 8x8 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the crumble 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. Check for doneness around 30 minutes; if the topping is browning too quickly, loosely cover the dish with foil.
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Cool and serve: Let the crumble cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm, perhaps with a dollop of sugar-free whipped cream or a scoop of low-calorie vanilla ice cream (optional).
Cooking Tips for the Best Apple Crumble:
- Apple variety matters: Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples hold their shape well during baking and provide a nice tartness.
- Don't overmix the crumble: A slightly coarse crumble topping is better than one that's completely smooth.
- Adjust sweetness to taste: The amount of sugar substitute can be adjusted based on your preference and the sweetness of your apples.
- Add a pinch of salt: A pinch of salt enhances the sweetness of the apples and the overall flavor of the crumble.
Variations:
- Berry crumble: Substitute berries (blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries) for the apples.
- Spiced crumble: Add a dash of ginger or cardamom to the crumble topping for extra warmth.
- Gluten-free crumble: Use gluten-free rolled oats and flour for a gluten-free version.
Nutritional Information (Approximate, per serving):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used. It’s always best to use a nutrition calculator with your exact ingredients for precise details.
- Calories: Approximately 200-250 per serving
- Fat: Around 10-12g per serving
- Protein: Approximately 4-5g per serving
- Carbohydrates: Around 30-35g per serving
- Fiber: Approximately 4-5g per serving
This low-calorie apple crumble is a perfect example of how easy it is to create delicious and healthy meals at home. It's a fantastic option for those seeking healthy meals, easy recipes, and quick dinner ideas, all while enjoying the comfort of homemade cooking. Enjoy this delightful dessert!