Name: Oaty Apple Crumble
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 45 min
Ingredients: 2-3 apples (granny smiths); ½ cup oats; 2 tbsp honey (or 3 tbsp maple syrup); 1 tsp cinnamon

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What is an oaty apple crumble?

Apple pies and apple crumbles have a rich history as beloved British desserts, which have now gained popularity in Europe and America. Traditionally, these recipes feature a sweet apple filling encased in a short-crust pastry or topped with a butter and flour crumble mixture. While these classics are undeniably delicious, they often come with a high butter content, making them less than healthy. In response, I’ve created a lighter, lower-calorie oaty apple crumble recipe that preserves the flavours you love. This recipe yields two portions and can be baked in an 8 x 4-inch dish, single-serve ramekins, or scaled up for larger groups. Don’t forget to subscribe and follow me on facebook or instagram to never miss a recipe that’s perfect for your weight loss journey.

What makes this apple crumble healthier?

This oaty apple crumble offers a healthier take on the classic dessert, maintaining its delightful flavours while incorporating nutritious elements. The star ingredient, granny smith apples, provides natural sweetness along with a dose of dietary fibre and essential vitamins. The oats contribute whole grains, adding fibre that supports digestive health and helps stabilize blood sugar levels. The use of honey or maple syrup as a sweetener adds a touch of sweetness with a lower glycaemic index compared to refined sugars, making this dessert a mindful choice for those aiming to manage their sugar intake. Additionally, the incorporation of cinnamon not only enhances the flavour profile but also brings potential health benefits, including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. This Apple Crumble is a comforting and satisfying dessert that aligns with a balanced and health-conscious approach to indulgence.

Do you have a diet restriction?

This oaty apple crumble recipe is great for the following restrictive diets:

Vegan
Vegetarian
Gluten Free (unless coeliac/sensitive to “may contain”)
Dairy Free
Nut Free
Low GI
Ultra Processed Food Free

Ultra processed food free recipes are recipes that use ingredients where no additives have been used. This will include ingredients that can be made at home to be UPF free such as stock cubes, sauces and seasonings.

Step 1: Prepare the apples

Firstly peel and chop up 2-3 granny smith apples. The type of apple is quite important, personally i think granny smiths are the best for every situation as they are crisp and most importantly for this recipe they are extra sweet. If you can’t source granny smiths then golden delicious or Pink Lady’s would be good alternatives. How you cut your apples is entirely down to preference, you could slice them or cut them into cubes like I have, but bear in mind if you cut large chunks it will take longer to cook. Take your apples and place them in a saucepan over low heat to soften for around 15 minutes, as mentioned above larger pieces may take longer.

Step 2: Prepare the oat crumble

Whilst your apples are softening in the saucepan mix together your oaty crumble mixture. Measure out ½ a cup of rolled oats and in a bowl mix them with 2 tablespoons of honey or 3 tablespoons of maple syrup. I always find oats seem to soak up maple syrup more than they do honey hence why the quantities are different. You want to coat the oats with honey/maple so they don’t taste dry and tasteless but you don’t want to use so much honey or maple that it completely binds it into one mass otherwise you will be left with a rock hard oat biscuit on top that you can’t cut into, so add one spoonful at a time.

Step 3: Bake your oaty apple crumble

Now that your apple has cooked, pop it into an oven proof dish (see notes above for sizes) and sprinkle with cinnamon. Bake for 30-40 minutes until your crumble is golden and slightly hardened. If you’re not calorie conscious then this dessert is typically paired with cream, custard or ice cream and if you ask me, custard is the perfect accompaniment to Apple crumble or Apple pie.

Variations

1. Nutty Crunch

Introduce a nutty twist by adding a handful of chopped walnuts, almonds, or pecans to the oat topping. Nuts contribute healthy fats and a delightful crunch to the crumble.

2. Mixed Fruit Medley

Experiment with a combination of different fruits, such as pears, berries, or peaches, to create a mixed fruit crumble. This variation adds a variety of flavors and textures to the dessert.

3. Gluten-Free Option

For a gluten-free version, substitute gluten-free rolled oats or almond flour in place of regular oats. Ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free to accommodate dietary preferences.

4. Coconut Bliss

Infuse a tropical flair by incorporating shredded coconut into the oat topping. This addition provides a hint of sweetness and a subtle coconut flavor to the crumble.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use other apple varieties?

Certainly! While granny smith apples are a popular choice for their tartness, feel free to experiment with other apple varieties based on your preference. Sweeter apples like Gala or Honeycrisp can offer a different flavor profile.

Is it necessary to peel the apples?

The choice to peel the apples is subjective. Leaving the peel on adds extra fiber and nutrients, but if you prefer a smoother texture, peeling the apples is an option.

Can I reduce the sweetener for a lower sugar option?

Absolutely! Adjust the amount of honey or maple syrup to suit your desired level of sweetness. You can start with a smaller quantity and taste-test before adding more.

Can I make this in advance?

Yes, this Apple Crumble can be made in advance. Simply store it in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven or microwave before serving. The crumble topping may lose some crispiness upon reheating, but the flavors will remain delicious.

What can I serve with the Apple Crumble?

Pair this delightful dessert with a scoop of vanilla yogurt, a dollop of whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra indulgent treat.

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