Apple Crumble: A Warm & Comforting Classic
When the weather turns chilly, there’s nothing better than the sweet aroma of vanilla, cinnamon, and baked apples filling the house. Apple crumble is one of those classic comfort foods that’s simple to make yet incredibly satisfying.
This wholesome dessert is naturally sweet, especially when using Pink Lady, Fuji, or Golden Delicious apples, meaning you don’t need to add loads of sugar. The crumble topping is versatile—it can be made with rolled quinoa, oats, or almond meal, depending on what you have on hand. Combined with maple syrup, macadamia nut oil, and warming spices, this dessert is both delicious and nourishing.
Why You’ll Love This Apple Crumble
- Naturally Sweetened – No refined sugar, just apples and maple syrup.
- Gluten-Free Option – Swap oats for almond meal or rolled quinoa.
- Rich in Fiber – Apples are great for digestion and gut health.
- Healthy Fats – Macadamia nut oil adds richness without processed fats.
- Versatile & Customizable – Add berries, peaches, or passionfruit for variety.
Health Benefits of Apples
Apples are packed with fiber, containing about 5g per serving. This includes both soluble and insoluble fiber, which supports digestion, helps regulate blood sugar, and promotes heart health. The soluble fiber, known as pectin, has been linked to lowering cholesterol and keeping you full for longer. Additionally, macadamia nut oil is an excellent anti-inflammatory alternative to margarine or processed fats often found in store-bought crumbles.
Ingredients (Serves 8)
For the Apple Filling:
- 6 medium apples (approx. 1 kg) (Pink Lady, Fuji, or Golden Delicious work best)
- 1 cup 100% apple juice (freshly juiced if possible)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract or paste (or 1 vanilla bean, scraped)
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Zest of ½ orange
For the Crumble Topping:
- 1½ cups rolled quinoa (or rolled oats/almond meal – see notes)
- ½ cup desiccated or flaked coconut
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract or paste
- 3 tablespoons organic maple syrup
- 3 tablespoons macadamia nut oil (or cold-pressed coconut oil)
- ½ cup walnuts or macadamia nuts (optional but adds great texture!)
Step-by-Step Instructions of making Apple Crumble
1: Prepare the Apples
- Wash the apples, then core and chop them into pieces.
- Place them in a large, heavy-based pot.
- Add apple juice, vanilla, cinnamon, and orange zest.
- Cook on low heat, stirring occasionally, until apples soften and break down completely.
- Cover the pot for the first 10 minutes to help release natural juices. Then, uncover for the last 10 minutes to let excess moisture evaporate. Taste and adjust if needed.
2: Make the Crumble
- In a food processor or high-speed blender, combine:
- Rolled quinoa (or your choice of oats/almond meal)
- Coconut, cinnamon, vanilla, maple syrup, oil, and nuts.
- Pulse for a few seconds until the mixture becomes crumbly and well-mixed.
3: Assemble & Bake
- Preheat the oven to 160°C (320°F).
- Transfer the cooked apples into a baking dish.
- Evenly scatter the crumble topping over the apple filling.
- Bake for 30 minutes or until the top is golden and crisp.
- Remove from the oven and serve warm with coconut cream or yogurt.
Customization Ideas
- Add Berries – Mix in raspberries or blueberries before baking for extra flavor.
- Swap Some Apples for Peaches – Use 2-3 fresh peaches, cut into wedges.
- Tropical Twist – Stir in pulp from 2-3 passionfruit before baking.
Storage & Serving Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheat gently in the oven at 150°C (300°F) for a freshly baked texture.
- Freeze portions for a quick dessert option—just thaw and reheat!
Final Thoughts
This Apple Crumble is more than just a dessert—it’s a comforting, nourishing, and wholesome treat. Made with real ingredients and packed with flavor, it’s the perfect healthier alternative to traditional crumbles.
Have you tried Berry Crumble recipe? Click here to know more about the recipe! Let us know in the comments! If you love it, share it with a friend who enjoys a cozy homemade dessert!
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