Healthy Breakfast Apple Crumble

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This apple crumble is not only incredibly easy to make, but it's also nutritious and versatile. The combination of cinnamon, apples, and oats creates a warm, aromatic dish that's both satisfying and healthy. It's refined sugar-free, dairy-free, and gluten-free, making it suitable for a variety of dietary preferences. Whether you’re looking for a wholesome breakfast to pair with yogurt or a dessert to enjoy with ice cream, this crumble does it all!

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the apple filling:

• 6 sweet apples
• 1 tablespoon cinnamon
• pinch of salt
• 2 teaspoon coconut oil

For the crumble:

• ⅔ cup oats
• ⅔ cup pecans
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil
• 2 teaspoon honey
• splash of water (about 1 tbsp)

Directions

1. Chop the apples and sauté them with the coconut oil, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt in a pan over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes. Cover the pan to speed up the softening process, but don’t overcook.
2. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
3. In a food processor (or blender), combine all crumble ingredients and add a splash of water. Process until you get a sticky yet crumbly mixture.
4. Grease a small baking pan or line it with parchment paper. Spread the sautéed apples in the pan, then use your fingers to form clumps of the crumble mixture and scatter them over the apples.
5. Bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the crumble turns golden brown.
6. Let the crumble cool slightly before serving with yogurt or milk for breakfast, or top it with ice cream for a delicious dessert.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• For a nut-free option, you can substitute the pecans with sunflower seeds or omit them altogether.
• Add dried fruits like raisins or cranberries to the apples for an extra burst of sweetness.
• For a more indulgent version, serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

Storage/Reheating

To store, keep the crumble refrigerated for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for 5-10 minutes to restore the crispiness of the crumble. This is a great make-ahead breakfast or dessert, as you can prepare it the day before and simply heat it up in the morning.

FAQs

1. Can I use other fruits besides apples?

Yes, pears or a mix of apples and berries would work well in this crumble.

2. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this apple crumble is made with oats, which are naturally gluten-free, and it contains no wheat.

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the crumble the night before, store it in the refrigerator, and bake it fresh the next morning.

4. How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

5. Can I use coconut sugar instead of honey?

Yes, you can substitute honey with coconut sugar for a different natural sweetener.

6. Can I use frozen apples for this recipe?

Fresh apples are preferred for texture, but if you use frozen apples, be sure to thaw and drain them before cooking.

7. How do I reheat the crumble?

Reheat in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for 5-10 minutes to restore its crispiness.

8. Is this recipe suitable for vegans?

Yes, this crumble is vegan-friendly as it’s dairy-free and refined sugar-free.

9. Can I make this recipe without a food processor?

If you don’t have a food processor, you can chop the pecans and mix the crumble ingredients by hand.

10. What can I serve this with besides yogurt or ice cream?

You can enjoy this crumble with dairy-free milk, cashew milk, or even a drizzle of maple syrup for extra sweetness.

Conclusion

This Healthy Breakfast Apple Crumble is a perfect combination of comfort and nutrition. Whether you're starting your day or enjoying a light dessert, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings without the guilt. Packed with fiber, healthy fats, and natural sweetness, it’s a wholesome way to enjoy apples in a fun and delicious way!