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healthy apple crisp in bowl

Healthy Apple Crisp

Tender apples, aromatic spices, and a crunchy, nutty topping. This healthier take on a classic dessert is naturally sweetened and full of fiber—one serving provides a quarter of your daily fiber needs. Enjoy the comfort of a warm, guilt-free dessert that’s just as delicious as the original!
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Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Keyword: apple desserts, Healthy Apple Crisp, healthy dessert
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 8
Calories: 275kcal

Equipment

  • 1 9 x 13-inch glass or metal baking dish

Ingredients

Apple Filling

  • 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

Crumb Topping

  • 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)

Instructions

  • Heat the oven: Heat your oven to 375℉ (190°C) and arrange the rack in the middle of the oven. Grease a 9 x 13-inch (23 x 33 cm) baking dish and set aside. Peel and slice your apples into approximately 1/4-inch (6mm) thick slices.
  • Prepare the apple filling: In a large mixing bowl, toss the apple chunks with cornstarch. Add the brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, chia seeds, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Mix until the apples are evenly coated.
    Spread the apple mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
  • Prepare & assemble crisp topping: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the oats, Grape-Nuts cereal, almond flour, sliced almonds, maple syrup, melted coconut oil, shredded coconut, cinnamon, and salt. Stir until everything is evenly mixed. Evenly sprinkle the topping over the apple filling.
  • Bake the Apple Crisp: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, or until the apples are fork-tender and the topping is golden brown and crisp.
    Remove from the oven and let the crisp cool on a wire rack for a few minutes. This allows the filling to firm up for easier serving.
    Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Alternatively, freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake at 350℉ (175°C) for 20 minutes until warmed through.

Notes

  • Apple Varieties: Golden Delicious, Granny Smith, and Honeycrisp apples work well for this recipe, offering a balanced mix of sweet and tart flavors.
  • Coconut Flakes: If you use unsweetened coconut flakes, be sure to chop them a bit before adding to the topping.
  • Grape-Nuts Substitution: If you prefer not to use Grape-Nuts, substitute with an additional 1/4 cup of oats or chopped nuts.
  • Kosher Salt: If using Morton’s Kosher salt, halve the amount (1/8 teaspoon), as it is coarser than Diamond Crystal Kosher salt. Avoid iodized table salt, which can affect the taste.
  • For a smaller dish: If using an 8 x 8-inch (20 x 20 cm) baking dish, increase the cooking time by approximately 10 to 15 minutes.

Nutrition

Calories: 275kcal