Name: Healthy Apple Crisp
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 6-7 cups (900 g) baking apples (about 7 medium), (peeled and chopped); 1 tablespoon (8 g) cornstarch; 1/4 cup (50 g) light brown sugar, (substitute raw or coconut sugar); 1 tablespoon (10 g) chia seeds; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; pinch of nutmeg; 2 tablespoon (30 g) fresh lemon juice; 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; 2/3 cup (60 g) old fashioned rolled oats, (not quick cook or steel cut); 1/3 cup (30 g) Grape-Nuts cereal, (substitute with finely chopped nuts (see notes)); 1/4 cup (28 g) almond flour; 1/3 cup (40 g) thinly sliced almonds, (chopped ); 1/4 cup (60 mL) maple syrup, (or honey); 1/4 cup (60 g) coconut oil, (melted (substitute butter)); 2 tablespoons (15 g) unsweetened shredded coconut; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon Diamond Crystal Kosher salt ((see notes) )

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This healthy apple crisp is made with tender cinnamon-spiced apples, a crunchy oat topping, and just the right amount of sweetness. It’s comforting, guilt-free, and pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

Looking for a dessert that’s cozy, delicious, and won’t leave you feeling guilty? This healthy apple crisp is exactly that. With its naturally sweet apples, warm spices, and a crunchy, oat-based topping, it’s a dessert you can feel good about. And the best part? It’s so easy to make, you’ll be baking it all year long!

Apples are hands down one of the best fruits for baking (and snacking!). They’re available year-round, come in so many varieties, and are super budget-friendly.

What I love most about apples is that when baked, they release their natural sweetness, so you don’t need a ton of added sugar.

This healthy apple crisp comes together in just 30 minutes, and it’s vegan (so long as you’re using maple syrup), dairy-free, and low in sugar.

What Makes this Apple Crisp Healthy?

Low in sugar – We’ve cut back on the sugar so the apples can really shine. The topping is sweetened with pure maple syrup instead of refined sugar.
No refined grains – The topping is made with rolled oats, almond flour, and a little Grape-Nuts for crunch.
Packed with healthy fats – Chia seeds, almonds, and almond flour give it a satisfying crunch and heart-healthy fats.
Vegan – It’s plant-based, which is always a win in my book!

**Keep in mind that you can substitute honey for maple syrup, and butter for coconut oil, but that it’ll no longer be vegan.**

What’s in the Apple Crisp?

Don’t let the ingredient list intimidate you! Most of these items are pantry staples, and this recipe is super easy to adjust based on what you have on hand.

Apples: I love using a mix of sweet-tart apples like Honeycrisp, Braeburn, or Pink Lady. Granny Smiths can be too tart for this recipe, but feel free to leave the skin on!
Brown Sugar: I use brown sugar for a touch of caramel flavor, but light or dark will work.
Cornstarch: Helps thicken the apple mixture.
Diamond Crystal Kosher Salt: My preference for a pure taste. If using Morton’s, cut the amount in half.
Chia Seeds: Optional, but they add great texture.
Ground Spices: Cinnamon and nutmeg give that cozy, warm flavor.
Lemon Juice: Adds balance to the apples—totally optional, but I love it!
Vanilla Extract: Brings warmth to the crisp.
Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats: Don’t use quick oats—too mushy.
Grape-Nuts: These add crunch and flavor, but you can swap them for more oats or almonds.
Almond Flour: Nutty flavor and lower in carbs than regular flour.
Pure Maple Syrup: My choice for sweetening—adds a rich, woodsy flavor.
Coconut Oil: Use it for a vegan option or swap with butter if you prefer.
Unsweetened Shredded Coconut: Don’t skip this if you can! It adds a nice nutty touch.

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How to Make Healthy Apple Crisp

Heat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prep a 9×13-inch baking dish. I spray it lightly with non-stick spray.
Prep the apples: Peel, core, and slice them into 1/4-inch thick pieces. You can use a knife or peeler—personal preference!
Make the filling: In a large bowl, toss apples with cornstarch, sugar, spices, vanilla, chia seeds, and lemon juice until coated. Layer the mixture in the baking dish.
Make the topping: In a medium bowl, mix oats, Grape-Nuts, almond flour, almonds, maple syrup, coconut oil, coconut, cinnamon, and salt. Sprinkle evenly over the apples.
Cover and bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30-40 minutes. If using a smaller pan, it might take a little longer.
Uncover and finish baking: Remove the foil for the last 10-15 minutes to let the topping brown. Check for doneness—the apples should be fork-tender!
Cool and enjoy: Let the crisp cool on a wire rack for a few minutes, then serve with ice cream, whipped cream, or Greek yogurt!H

Substitutions and Modifications

This recipe is super flexible! Here are a few easy swaps:

Sugar: Use coconut sugar, white sugar, or cane sugar instead of brown sugar.
Butter: Swap coconut oil for butter (same amount).
Spices: Add cardamom, cloves, or allspice for extra depth.
Texture: Add raisins or your favorite nuts for more crunch.
Chia Seeds: Feel free to skip them if you prefer.

Frequently Asked Questions about Healthy Apple Crisp

Can I make this ahead of time? Yes! Prep the apple filling and store it in the dish. Mix the topping dry ingredients, but don’t add the wet ingredients until you’re ready to bake.
How do I reheat it? Bake uncovered at 350°F for 20-25 minutes, or microwave for 30 seconds until warm.
Can I freeze it? Yes! Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat at 350°F for 20-25 minutes, or eat it cold.
Can I eat this for breakfast? Absolutely! I’ve even used this to top off my oatmeal!

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