Nothing beats the warm, cozy aroma of cinnamon and baked apples filling your kitchen. This Healthy Breakfast Apple Crumble is a delicious yet nutritious way to start your day, packed with fiber rich apples, crunchy nuts, and hearty oats. It’s naturally sweetened and dairy-free, making it a guilt-free treat you can enjoy for breakfast or as a wholesome dessert.
With just a handful of simple ingredients, this recipe comes together in no time. Serve it fresh out of the oven with a splash of almond milk or a dollop of yogurt for a comforting breakfast, or top it with ice cream for an indulgent yet healthy dessert. However you enjoy it, this apple crumble is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
For the Apple Base:
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6 sweet apples, chopped
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1 tbsp cinnamon
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Pinch of salt
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2 tsp coconut oil
For the Crumble Topping:
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2/3 cup oats
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2/3 cup pecans or walnuts
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1 tbsp coconut oil
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2 tsp honey
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1 tbsp water
Directions:
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
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In a pan over medium-high heat, sauté the chopped apples with coconut oil, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Cover for 2-3 minutes to soften slightly.
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In a food processor, blend the oats, nuts, coconut oil, honey, and water until a crumbly, sticky mixture forms.
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Lightly grease a small baking pan or line it with parchment paper. Spread the sautéed apples evenly in the pan.
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Use your hands to form larger crumble pieces and distribute them over the apples.
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Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the crumble turns golden brown.
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Let cool slightly, then serve with dairy-free milk, yogurt, or ice cream.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 380 kcal | Servings: 4
Healthy Breakfast Apple Crumble: A Wholesome and Delicious Start to Your Day
If you’re looking for a cozy, nutritious, and easy to make breakfast, this Healthy Breakfast Apple Crumble is the perfect recipe for you. It combines naturally sweet apples, warm cinnamon, and a crunchy oat nut topping, making it a delightful way to start your morning. Unlike traditional apple crumble, which is often loaded with refined sugar and butter, this version is made with wholesome, unprocessed ingredients that provide essential nutrients and lasting energy.
This dish is incredibly versatile you can enjoy it for breakfast, as a mid-day snack, or even as a healthy dessert. Pair it with yogurt, a splash of almond milk, or a scoop of dairy free ice cream for an indulgent yet guilt free treat. In this article, we’ll explore the origins of apple crumble, its health benefits, how to customize it to your preferences, and the best ways to store and serve it.
The Origin of Apple Crumble
Apple crumble is a beloved dessert that originated in Britain during World War II. Due to food rationing, traditional pie ingredients like flour, butter, and sugar were scarce, leading to the invention of the crumble topping as a more accessible alternative. This simple yet delicious dish quickly became a household favorite across the UK and beyond.
Over time, apple crumble evolved into different variations, including healthier versions that cater to dietary preferences such as gluten free, dairy-free, and refined sugar free diets. By using natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, whole-grain oats, and nutrient-dense nuts, the modern apple crumble offers both great taste and health benefits.
Health Benefits of This Apple Crumble
This Healthy Breakfast Apple Crumble is not just delicious it’s packed with nutritional benefits that make it an excellent way to start your day. Here’s why:
1. Rich in Fiber
Apples are a fantastic source of dietary fiber, which helps promote healthy digestion, regulate blood sugar levels, and keep you feeling full for longer. Oats also contribute to fiber intake, particularly beta glucan, a type of soluble fiber known for its heart-healthy properties.
2. Natural Sweeteners Over Refined Sugar
Many traditional crumbles use white sugar, which can lead to energy crashes. This recipe uses honey or maple syrup, both of which provide natural sweetness while offering minerals and antioxidants.
3. Healthy Fats from Nuts and Coconut Oil
The inclusion of pecans or walnuts not only adds crunch but also provides heart healthy fats, essential vitamins, and minerals. Coconut oil is a healthier alternative to butter, providing beneficial medium chain triglycerides (MCTs) that support metabolism and brain function.
4. Antioxidant Powerhouse
Cinnamon, a key ingredient in this crumble, is a powerful antioxidant known for its anti inflammatory properties and ability to regulate blood sugar levels. Combined with the natural antioxidants found in apples and nuts, this dish offers excellent immune boosting benefits.
5. Gluten-Free and Dairy-Free Friendly
For those with dietary restrictions, this recipe is naturally gluten-free (as long as you use certified gluten-free oats) and dairy-free, making it suitable for a wide range of dietary needs.
Ways to Customize This Recipe
One of the best things about this apple crumble is how adaptable it is. Whether you want to add more protein, make it extra crunchy, or switch up the flavors, here are a few ways to customize it:
1. Add Protein
If you want a higher-protein version, try adding:
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Chia seeds or hemp seeds to the crumble topping
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A scoop of protein powder mixed into the oat mixture
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Greek yogurt as a topping for extra creaminess and protein
2. Make It Extra Crunchy
For a crunchier topping, try adding:
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Almond slivers or sunflower seeds
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Shredded coconut for a tropical twist
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A sprinkle of flaxseeds for extra fiber and omega-3s
3. Experiment with Spices
Cinnamon is a classic flavor, but you can enhance the warmth of this dish by adding:
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Nutmeg for a deeper, spiced flavor
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Ginger for a hint of zest and added anti-inflammatory benefits
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Cloves for a bolder, more festive taste
4. Use Different Fruits
While apples are the star of this recipe, you can mix and match different fruits to create exciting variations:
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Pears for a softer, sweeter taste
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Berries (blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries) for added tartness and antioxidants
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Peaches or plums for a summer inspired crumble
Serving Suggestions
This apple crumble is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many different ways. Here are some serving ideas:
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For Breakfast: Serve warm with a splash of almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk for a comforting and satisfying morning meal.
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As a Snack: Enjoy a small portion on its own or with a dollop of dairy-free yogurt for a light yet energizing snack.
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For Dessert: Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream (dairy or non-dairy) for a delightful and indulgent yet healthy dessert.
If you’re making this for guests, garnish with a sprinkle of chopped nuts, a drizzle of honey, or even a few fresh apple slices for a beautiful presentation.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you’re making this apple crumble ahead of time or have leftovers, here’s how to store and reheat it properly:
Refrigeration:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing:
For longer storage, freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheating:
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Oven (Best Method): Reheat at 350°F (180°C) for 10 minutes to restore crispiness.
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Microwave (Quick Option): Heat for 30-60 seconds, though the topping may become softer.
Conclusion
This Healthy Breakfast Apple Crumble is the perfect combination of nutrition, flavor, and convenience. It’s easy to prepare, naturally sweetened, and packed with wholesome ingredients that will fuel your body and keep you satisfied. Whether you’re enjoying it as a cozy breakfast, a midday snack, or a comforting dessert, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Best of all, you can customize it in endless ways to suit your dietary needs and personal preferences. From adding different nuts and spices to experimenting with fruit combinations, this apple crumble is a dish that you’ll never get tired of.
So next time you find yourself with a surplus of apples, turn them into this delightful and nourishing breakfast treat. You won’t regret it!