Cozy up to a Healthy Apple Crisp this autumn. It’s the perfect seasonal dessert!
This healthy apple crisp is one of my favorite go-to desserts to make as soon as the autumn chill sets in. It’s simple, comforting, and surprisingly versatile. I love that it’s a fantastic option when you’re serving guests with a range of dietary needs. The ingredients are straightforward and easy to adapt. It can easily be made vegan, and it’s naturally gluten-free, as long as you use oats that are certified gluten-free.
I’m lucky enough to have a spouse who adores anything apple-related, which is how this recipe became a staple in our home. While it’s great any time of year, there’s something especially cozy about making it during the colder months. We love curling up with a blanket, a good movie, and a warm bowl of apple crisp when it’s chilly outside.
You’ll love how simple this recipe is. It features a warm, juicy apple filling and a perfectly crisp, golden crumble on top. The ingredients are easy to find, and the prep is minimal. Honestly, the hardest part is slicing the apples!
What apples should I bake?
When making any apple-based dessert, choosing the right type of apple is key. Not all apples hold up well to heat and may turn to mush. That’s why it’s important to use a good baking apple.
So, what exactly is a baking apple? It’s a variety that retains its shape and texture when cooked, giving you tender, flavorful pieces instead of a soggy mess. Some of the best options include Fuji, Honeycrisp, Jazz, and Pink Lady. These apples strike a nice balance between sweetness, firmness, and juiciness. If you like a more tart apple, Granny Smith is another excellent choice.
Avoid using apples like Red Delicious, Gala, or McIntosh for baking. While they’re great for snacking, they break down too quickly when baked.
How do I store leftovers?
Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 4 days. Bear in mind that the topping will lose its crisp texture. The crisp can also be frozen in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat the crisp in the oven at 350°F for 10-12 minutes.
Serving suggestions
Like all warm apple desserts, this one is excellent with Sweetened Whipped Cream or ice cream! I’d particularly recommend a delicious Coconut Whipped Cream to serve. For ice cream, the classic choice is Vanilla Ice Cream, but this Brown Sugar Ice Cream is also a super delicious option!
Healthy Apple Crisp
Ingredients
- 5 medium apples peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- 1/3 cup pure maple syrup
- 1 1/2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 5 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 4 1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, combine sliced apples, maple syrup, cornstarch, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract. Let sit for 10 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, mix together oats, flour, brown sugar, and salt. Add melted butter and mix with your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Spread the apple mixture in the prepared baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the crisp topping over the apples.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are bubbly.
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