Healthy Apple Crisp Recipe

Indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of fall with this Healthy Apple Crisp Recipe! Made with Honeycrisp or Granny Smith apples, a buttery oat-pecan topping, and naturally sweetened with maple syrup, this dessert is as wholesome as it is delicious. Perfect for cozy nights or festive gatherings, this easy apple crisp recipe offers gluten-free, vegan, and nut-free options to suit any dietary preference. Pair it with vanilla ice cream or enjoy it on its own for a guilt-free treat.

Ingredients

For the Topping:

• ⅓ cup (38g) whole wheat pastry flour (or substitute with regular flour, gluten-free oat flour, or almond flour)
• ½ cup (48g) old-fashioned rolled oats (gluten-free if needed)
• ⅓ cup (71g) dark brown sugar (coconut sugar works, but brown sugar is ideal)
• ½ cup (56g) raw chopped pecans
• ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ cup (57g) cold butter or vegan buttery stick, cubed (or substitute with coconut oil)

For the Crisp Filling:

• 5–6 medium Honeycrisp or Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
• ⅓ cup (104g) pure maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Pinch of nutmeg
• 1 tablespoon bourbon (or substitute with pure vanilla extract)

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Instructions

1. Preheat and Prep:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously grease an 8×8-inch baking pan with nonstick cooking spray and set aside.
2. Make the Topping:
   In a large bowl, mix the flour, oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and pecans until well combined. Add the cubed butter and, using your hands, blend until the mixture resembles wet sand and is crumbly. (Alternatively, use a pastry cutter or pulse the ingredients in a food processor for a similar texture.) Refrigerate the topping while you prepare the filling.
3. Prepare the Filling:
   In a large bowl, toss the sliced apples with maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, and bourbon (or vanilla extract). Let the mixture sit for 5–10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
4. Assemble the Crisp:
   Mix ⅓ cup of the prepared topping into the apple mixture. Transfer the apple mixture to the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining topping over the apples.
5. Bake:
   Place the pan on a baking sheet to catch any bubbling juices. Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
6. Cool and Serve:
   Remove the crisp from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for 10 minutes. Serve warm, paired with your favorite vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthier Comfort Food: Made with natural sweeteners like maple syrup and wholesome ingredients like oats and pecans.
• Perfect Texture and Flavor: The tender, spiced apples and crisp, buttery topping make every bite irresistible.
• Easy to Customize: Gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan options make it adaptable for any diet.
• Seasonal Favorite: A cozy dessert that celebrates fall flavors, perfect for gatherings or quiet nights in.

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Tips

• Choosing Apples: Honeycrisp and Granny Smith apples are ideal for their balance of sweetness and tartness, but feel free to mix and match.
• Cold Butter is Key: Cold butter creates a crispier topping, so don’t let it soften before mixing.
• Prevent Spills: Bake the dish on a baking sheet to catch any bubbling juices.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the topping and filling separately, then assemble and bake when ready to serve.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free oat flour or almond flour for the topping.
• Nut-Free Alternative: Replace pecans with sunflower seeds or skip them entirely.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cardamom or ginger for an extra layer of flavor.
• Alcohol-Free: Substitute bourbon with pure vanilla extract for the same rich taste.
• Sugar-Free: Replace brown sugar with a natural sugar-free sweetener like monk fruit.

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FAQs

1. Can I use other fruits?
Yes! Pears, peaches, or a mix of berries work beautifully in this recipe.

2. How do I store leftovers?
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

3. Can I freeze apple crisp?
Yes, assemble the crisp and freeze unbaked for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding 10–15 extra minutes.

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Serving

Serve this warm, cozy apple crisp with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce for a decadent treat. It’s also delicious with a dollop of plain Greek yogurt for a healthier option.

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Suggestions

• For a Crowd: Double the recipe and bake in a 9×13-inch pan.
• Toppings: Try adding shaved coconut or chocolate chips to the topping for a creative twist.
• Holiday Treat: Add a festive touch with cranberries or raisins mixed into the apple filling.