Print
clockclock iconcutlerycutlery iconflagflag iconfolderfolder iconinstagraminstagram iconpinterestpinterest iconfacebookfacebook iconprintprint iconsquaressquares iconheartheart iconheart solidheart solid icon

Healthy Apple Crisp with Pecan Oat Topping Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.4 from 4 reviews

A delicious and healthier take on classic apple crisp featuring a wholesome pecan oat topping. Made with whole wheat flour, packed with cinnamon and nutmeg spices, and naturally sweetened with brown sugar, this comforting dessert is perfect for fall or anytime you crave warm baked apples with a crispy, nutty crumble.

  • Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Yield: 9 servings

Ingredients

Filling

  • 4 large apples, peeled and chopped into 1/2 inch chunks (e.g., 3 Honeycrisp and 1 Granny Smith)
  • 2 tbsp whole wheat flour (or all purpose flour)
  • 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1/2 tsp cinnamon
  • 1/8 tsp nutmeg
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Topping

  • 2/3 cup old fashioned oats
  • 1/3 cup whole wheat flour (or all purpose flour)
  • 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1/3 cup pecans or walnuts, finely chopped
  • 1/2 tsp cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp fine sea salt
  • 4 tbsp cold unsalted butter, chopped into small pieces

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8 inch baking dish, pie plate, or 10-inch cast iron skillet with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  2. Make the Apple Filling: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the peeled and chopped apples with the 2 tablespoons of whole wheat flour, 1/4 cup brown sugar, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract. Toss everything together thoroughly, using your hands if desired, then transfer the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
  3. Prepare the Topping: Using the same bowl, add 2/3 cup oats, 1/3 cup whole wheat flour, 1/4 cup brown sugar, 1/3 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together until well combined.
  4. Add Butter and Form Dough: Add the 4 tablespoons of cold, chopped unsalted butter to the topping mixture. Use your hands to work the butter into the dry ingredients until a uniform, crumbly dough forms with the butter evenly distributed. This step may take a bit of effort to soften the butter.
  5. Assemble and Bake: Evenly sprinkle the topping mixture over the apple filling in the baking dish. Place it in the oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the topping is golden and crisp.
  6. Cool and Serve: Remove the apple crisp from the oven and allow it to cool on a wire rack for about 10 minutes before serving. For an extra treat, top with vanilla ice cream. Store any leftovers in an airtight container or cover the dish with foil and refrigerate for up to 4 days.

Notes

  • Using a mix of apple varieties (such as Honeycrisp and Granny Smith) adds complexity of flavor and balance of sweetness and tartness.
  • Cold butter is key to achieving a crisp and crumbly topping texture, so keep it chilled until mixing.
  • For a nut-free version, omit the pecans or walnuts and add an equivalent amount of extra oats or flour.
  • If you prefer, brown sugar can be substituted with coconut sugar or maple sugar for a different flavor profile.
  • Serving warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream enhances the dessert beautifully.
  • Leftovers can be reheated gently in the oven or microwave before serving.
  • Author: Daisy
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 55 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Fat

Find it online: https://dishiary.com/healthy-apple-crisp-with-pecan-oat-topping-recipe/