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This lighter apple crumble is the perfect way to turn fresh fruit into a cozy breakfast that'll satisfy your sweet tooth without the guilt.
I threw this together one fall morning when my kids were begging for something sweet to start the day. Now, nearly every weekend, they won’t stop asking for it.
Yummy Ingredients
- For the apples:
- Six sweet apples: they bring that naturally sugary flavor with no need to toss in more sugar
- One tablespoon cinnamon: turns the apples super comforting and gives that fall vibe
- A little pinch of salt: helps pop all those flavors
- Two teaspoons coconut oil: lightly fragrant and goes so well with the apples
- For the topping:
- 2/3 cup oats: adds some fiber and just the right bit of chew
- 2/3 cup pecans: they’re buttery, a bit rich, plus bring some healthy fats
- One tablespoon coconut oil: gives you that great crumbly texture
- Two teaspoons honey: brings everything together, not too sweet
Step-by-Step Directions
- Serving it up:
- Let it sit for a couple minutes to cool before digging in. I love throwing some plain yogurt or dairy-free milk on top for breakfast.
- Baking:
- Pop it in the oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes. Take it out once the top goes golden and you start smelling that warm, toasty aroma.
- Putting it together:
- Grease or line your baking dish. Spread the apples out evenly. Grab handfuls of your crumble mix and scatter clumps right over top of the apples.
- Blending the crumble:
- Toss all your topping ingredients into a food processor. Splash in a tablespoon of water to help bind it. Pulse until it’s chunky and comes together if you squish it.
- Heating the oven:
- Set your oven to 180°C. Just make sure the rack's in the center for super even baking.
- Cooking the apples:
- Chop apples into similar-sized bits. Cook them in a skillet on medium-high with cinnamon, coconut oil, and salt. Cover and let them soften for 2–3 minutes. They should get tender but not mushy.
Cinnamon is my magic ingredient here. It doesn’t just taste amazing, it also helps keep blood sugar stable. Makes this crumble a truly balanced start to your day. My daughter always says it smells like a big warm hug in the kitchen when this is baking.
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Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
This crumble keeps great in the fridge for three days. To warm it back up, just stick it in a 150°C oven for about ten minutes. Or use the microwave if you’re in a hurry. You can even prep the topping in advance and freeze it for a whole month. Just crumble it fresh over your apples when you're ready to bake.
Swaps and Changes
Switch things up however you like. Pears work awesome instead of apples. Try almonds in place of pecans, or swap honey for maple syrup. Just use certified gluten-free oats for a version without gluten. In the summer, toss in some fresh berries along with the apples for a tangy twist.
Nutrition Perks
This breakfast is a whole lot more than a sweet treat. Apples have pectin—a fiber that’s great for your belly. Pecans add good-for-you fats that your heart loves. Oats bring beta-glucans that help with healthy cholesterol. Way less added sugar here compared to regular crumbles, so you get a solid, balanced start to the day.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I prepare the apples?
Slice the apples into chunks and cook them with cinnamon, a pinch of salt, and some coconut oil over medium-high heat. This step makes them tastier and softer.
- → What nuts work best for the topping?
Pecans are great, but you can also try almonds, hazelnuts, or regular walnuts—whatever you like best.
- → Can I swap the honey for something else?
Sure! Use maple syrup, agave, or any natural sweetener you prefer instead.
- → Is this a good dessert option?
Definitely! Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a comforting dessert.
- → How should I store leftovers?
Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge. Warm it up in the oven or microwave when you're ready to eat.