Healthy Baked Apple Crisp

By: @mariehealthyhill Marie Hemphill

As the temperatures drop and cozy sweaters make their way out of storage, nothing feels more comforting than the scent of cinnamon and baked apples wafting through the kitchen. For those seeking a dessert that's both nourishing and indulgent, this Healthy Baked Apple Crisp is the perfect choice. Packed with fiber-rich apples, hearty oats, crunchy nuts, and natural sweeteners, it strikes the ideal balance between comfort food and wellness.

Why This Recipe is a Fall Favorite

The beauty of this baked apple crisp lies in its versatility. Whether you're looking for a healthy treat or a simple dessert to share with family, this recipe delivers on every front. Here’s why it deserves a spot in your autumn repertoire:

1. Nutrient-Dense Ingredients

This apple crisp is loaded with ingredients that nourish your body while satisfying your sweet tooth:

• Apples with skin on provide fiber, antioxidants, and a natural sweetness.
• Organic Oats and almond flour offer complex carbs and protein for lasting energy.
• Nuts like walnuts and pecans bring healthy fats and a satisfying crunch.
• Maple syrup and coconut sugar keep the sweetness natural and refined-sugar-free.

2. A Healthy Alternative

Unlike traditional apple crisps that rely on heavy butter and sugar, this version uses wholesome swaps without sacrificing flavor. Plus, it’s easy to make dairy-free by substituting coconut oil for butter.

3. Cozy and Comforting

Few desserts evoke the warmth of autumn quite like a bubbling apple crisp fresh out of the oven. Serve it warm with a dollop of Greek yogurt, coconut whipped cream, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a touch of indulgence.

How to Choose the Right Apples

When it comes to making the perfect apple crisp, the type of apple you choose matters. For the best results, opt for a mix of sweet and tart apples. Some great options include:

• Sweet apples: Honeycrisp, Fuji, Gala
• Tart apples: Granny Smith, Pink Lady

The combination of flavors ensures your crisp is balanced, while the skin-on apples enhance the dish with added nutrients and texture.

Recipe: Healthy Baked Apple Crisp

Let’s dive into the step-by-step recipe for this comforting dessert.

Ingredients

For the Apple Base:

• 6 medium apples (with skin on), thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 2 tbsp coconut sugar
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

For the Crisp Topping:

• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1/2 cup almond flour
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, or almonds)
• 1/3 cup coconut sugar
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg (optional)
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter (or coconut oil, for dairy-free)
• 1/4 cup almond butter
• 1 tsp almond extract
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/3 cup maple syrup

Instructions

1. Macerate the Apples:
• Toss sliced apples with maple syrup, coconut sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
• Let the mixture sit for 30–60 minutes to draw out the juices and enhance sweetness.
2. Prepare the Crisp Topping:
• In a medium bowl, mix oats, almond flour, nuts, coconut sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
• Add butter, almond butter, almond extract, vanilla extract, and maple syrup. Combine until crumbly.
3. Assemble the Crisp:
• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Spread the apples (and their juices) in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
• Generously sprinkle the crumble topping over the apples.
4. Bake:
• Cover the dish loosely with foil and bake for 20–25 minutes to prevent the topping from burning.
• Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are tender.
5. Cool and Serve:
• Let the crisp cool for 10–15 minutes before serving. Pair with Greek yogurt or a scoop of ice cream for an extra treat.

Tips for Success

• Preventing Burnt Topping: Always cover the dish for the first half of baking and remove the foil for the last stretch to achieve a perfectly crisp topping.
• Soft Apples Every Time: Slice the apples thinly or chop into small chunks to ensure even cooking.
• Make Ahead: Assemble the crisp and refrigerate it unbaked for up to 12 hours. Bake fresh when ready to serve.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Not only is this apple crisp a healthier take on a classic dessert, but it’s also incredibly easy to make. It’s the kind of recipe you can throw together for a cozy weekend dinner or a holiday gathering. The mix of warm spices, juicy apples, and buttery, nutty topping will have everyone asking for seconds—without feeling weighed down.

So go ahead, bake this apple crisp, grab a blanket, and enjoy a bowl of fall comfort while the leaves turn. Your taste buds (and your body) will thank you!