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This healthy apple crumble makes fresh fruit into a cozy morning treat. It hits the spot even for those with a sweet tooth, and there's no guilt here.
One crisp fall morning, my kids begged for something sweet before school. That's the day I came up with this apple crumble, and now it's a weekend staple at our house.
Tasty Ingredients List
- For the apples:
- Six sweet apples: all the natural sugar you need, no extra required
- A dash of salt: really brings out all the flavors
- One big spoonful of cinnamon: gives apples that autumn hug flavor
- Two teaspoons coconut oil: light and awesome with apples
- For the crumble topping:
- Two teaspoons honey: ties it together just enough, not too sugary
- A heaping tablespoon coconut oil: so things get just the right crunch
- Two-thirds cup pecans: buttery crunch and healthy fats
- Two-thirds cup rolled oats: for great texture and fiber
Step-by-Step Directions
- Finishing touch:
- Let it cool off a bit before digging in. Tastes awesome with a splash of oat milk or a spoonful of yogurt.
- Baking:
- Pop into your oven for around 15 to 20 minutes. When your kitchen smells amazing and the top's golden, you know it's ready.
- Putting things together:
- Grease a small baking dish (or just use parchment). Scoop the cooked apples inside and spread them out. Pinch together the crumble mix and scatter chunky pieces all over the top.
- Get the crumble ready:
- Toss all crumble ingredients in a food processor. Splash in a tablespoon of water to help it come together. Pulse until it's in big crumbly bits that hold shape when squeezed.
- Oven setup:
- Fire up your oven to 180°C. Make sure your rack sits in the middle so everything bakes up nice and even.
- Cook up the apples:
- Chop apples into chunks. Cook them with coconut oil, cinnamon, and salt in a pan over medium-high. Cover for a couple of minutes so they soften, but don't let them turn mushy.
Cinnamon's my go-to magic touch here. It's got that warmth everyone loves. It helps balance blood sugar too, so this breakfast keeps you feeling great. My daughter always says it smells like a hug in the kitchen when I make it.
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Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
This dish is good in the fridge for three days. Want it warm? Ten minutes in the oven at 150°C does the trick, or just zap it in the microwave if you're in a rush. You can prep the crumble topping ahead, freeze it for a month, then crumble it straight over your apples when you're ready to bake.
Swaps and Changes
Tweak this however you want and use whatever's on hand. Pears swap in for apples without a problem. Almonds work if you're out of pecans, and maple syrup's a solid stand-in for honey. Need it gluten-free? Just pick certified oats. Toss in summer berries with your apples for a tart twist when it's hot out.
Nutritional Perks
This is more than just something sweet in the morning. Apples bring in pectin, an easy-to-digest fiber. Pecans add those good-for-you heart fats. Oats are loaded with beta-glucan that helps keep cholesterol down. It's much lower in sugar than most versions, which really helps you start your day off right.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I prep the apples for this crumble?
Cut the apples into small chunks and cook them briefly on medium-high heat with coconut oil, a pinch of salt, and cinnamon. This gives them a softer texture and richer flavor.
- → What kind of nuts can I use?
Pecans are great, but almonds, hazelnuts, or simple walnuts work too—it’s all about what you like best!
- → Can I swap honey for something else?
Yes, you can use maple syrup, agave syrup, or another natural sweetener you prefer.
- → Can this crumble work as dessert?
Yes, definitely! Enjoy it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a more indulgent dessert.
- → How should I store leftovers?
Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in the microwave or oven when ready to eat.