Description
The Ultimate Healthy Apple Crumble is a cozy and comforting dessert featuring tender, spiced apples topped with a crunchy oat and whole wheat streusel. Perfectly balanced with cinnamon and nutmeg, and naturally sweetened with maple syrup, this apple crumble offers a full serving of fruit per portion and is wholesome enough to enjoy for breakfast or dessert. Its crisp topping and juicy filling make it an irresistible treat that keeps well in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Ingredients
For the Streusel
- ¾ cup (75g) old-fashioned rolled oats (gluten-free if necessary, measured as packed)
- ¼ cup (30g) whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour (measured as packed)
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 2 tbsp (30mL) pure maple syrup (room temperature)
- 1 ½ tbsp (21g) unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling
- 6 cups (767g) diced red apple
- 2 tbsp (16g) cornstarch
- 1 ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ⅛ tsp ground nutmeg
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Lightly coat an 8-inch square baking pan with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking during baking.
- Make the Streusel Topping: In a small bowl, whisk together the rolled oats, whole wheat flour, and ground cinnamon until well combined. Create a well in the center of the dry mixture, then add the pure maple syrup and melted butter. Stir everything together thoroughly until the mixture is evenly moistened and forms a crumbly topping.
- Prepare the Apple Filling: In a large bowl, toss the diced red apples with cornstarch, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Mix until the apples are completely coated with the spices and cornstarch, which will help thicken the filling as it bakes.
- Assemble the Crumble: Transfer the apple mixture into the prepared baking pan, spreading it out evenly and gently pressing down with a spatula for a compact base layer.
- Top with Streusel: Evenly sprinkle the streusel topping over the apples, breaking it into small pieces about the size of miniature chocolate chips to ensure thorough coverage and an even crunchy texture.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until the apples are fork-tender and the topping is golden and crisp.
- Cool and Chill: Remove the crumble from the oven and let it cool completely to room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 3 hours to allow the juices to thicken fully, enhancing the texture and flavor before serving.
Notes
- Use gluten-free oats and flour if you need a gluten-free dessert option.
- The diced red apples can be any crisp apple variety such as Fuji, Gala, or Honeycrisp for the best texture and sweetness.
- Refrigerate leftovers covered with foil or in an airtight container; they keep well for up to four days or even a week.
- For a vegan option, substitute butter with a dairy-free alternative.
- Ensure the maple syrup and butter are at room temperature for easier mixing of the streusel.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American