Healthy Apple Crisp Recipe: A Deliciously Guilt-Free Dessert
Are you craving a warm, comforting apple crisp but worried about the sugar and fat content? Fear not! This healthy apple crisp recipe delivers all the deliciousness of a classic dessert without the guilt. We've focused on using whole grains, reducing refined sugar, and incorporating healthy fats for a satisfying and nutritious treat. This recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or a healthy dessert option for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
For the Filling:
- 6 medium apples (Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala work well), peeled, cored, and sliced
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup (or to taste, adjust for sweetness of apples)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
For the Crisp Topping:
- 1 cup rolled oats (old-fashioned or quick-cooking)
- 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional, but adds great flavor and texture)
- 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
Preparing the Apple Filling:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, gently combine the sliced apples, applesauce, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and lemon juice. Toss everything together until the apples are evenly coated.
Making the Crisp Topping:
- In a separate bowl, combine the rolled oats, whole wheat flour, nuts (if using), melted coconut oil, maple syrup, and cinnamon. Mix until well combined and crumbly.
Assembling and Baking the Crisp:
- Pour the apple filling into a greased 8x8 inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle the crisp topping evenly over the apples.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are tender. If the topping is browning too quickly, cover loosely with foil.
Serving and Storage:
- Let the apple crisp cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla yogurt or a dollop of dairy-free whipped cream for an extra touch.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Tips for the Best Healthy Apple Crisp:
- Apple Variety: The type of apple you use will affect the sweetness and texture of your crisp. Tart apples like Granny Smith will need a bit more maple syrup, while sweeter apples like Fuji may need less.
- Topping Variations: Feel free to experiment with different nuts or seeds in the topping. Adding a sprinkle of chia seeds or flax seeds will boost the nutritional value.
- Sweetener Adjustments: Adjust the amount of maple syrup to your liking. You can also use other natural sweeteners like honey or date syrup.
- Make it Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free rolled oats and a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
This healthy apple crisp recipe offers a delicious and guilt-free alternative to traditional versions. It’s packed with flavor and nutrients, making it a perfect dessert for anyone looking for a healthier treat. Enjoy!
