Breakfast Apple Crisp

There’s something incredibly comforting about the smell of warm apples and cinnamon wafting through the house.

If you’re a fan of an indulgent breakfast that doesn’t leave you feeling sluggish, this Breakfast Apple Crisp is the recipe you’ve been looking for.

It’s the perfect way to start your day with a blend of sweet apples, a nutty crumble topping, and a dollop of creamy yogurt. Plus, the combination of stewed apples and oats makes it filling and delicious.

This recipe is simple to prepare, but the result feels like a treat, especially on a chilly morning.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a list of everything you’ll need to make this Breakfast Apple Crisp recipe:

• 2 cooking apples
• 1 tsp brown sugar
• 1/2 cup oats
• 1/4 cup ground almonds
• 1 tbsp maple syrup
• 1 tbsp melted coconut oil
• Yogurt to serve

How to Pick the Best Apples for this Breakfast Apple Crisp

Cooking apples are the go-to for this dish because of their texture and flavour. They break down beautifully when stewed, creating a soft, slightly tart base for the crumble.

If cooking apples aren’t available, Granny Smith apples are an excellent alternative, offering a similar tartness that complements the sweet topping.

Avoid sweeter varieties like Red Delicious, as they may become too mushy and lose their structure during cooking.

Make this Breakfast Apple Crisp Your Own

One of the best things about this apple crisp is its versatility. You can easily customise the recipe to suit your preferences.

Add some chopped pecans or walnuts to the crumble for a crunchy, nutty twist.

Want more spice? A pinch of nutmeg or ginger adds warmth and depth.

You can also mix dried fruits like raisins or cranberries into the stewed apples for extra texture and flavour.

The options are endless—experiment with ingredients to make it truly your own!

Storing and Reheating Your Breakfast Apple Crisp

If you happen to have leftovers (though it’s unlikely!), this apple crisp stores well in the fridge.

Place any remaining portions in an airtight container and refrigerate.

When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 30 seconds or warm it in the oven for a few minutes to re-crisp the topping.

This makes it a perfect option for meal prep or a make-ahead breakfast that you can enjoy throughout the week.

Healthy Swaps and Additions

Looking to make your apple crisp a little healthier? You can swap out the brown sugar for a natural sweetener like honey or agave syrup.

The oats already provide a good source of fiber, but you could also mix in some chia seeds or flaxseeds for an extra nutritional boost.

If you’re watching your fat intake, you can reduce the amount of coconut oil and add a tablespoon of applesauce to the crumble mixture—this will still give you moisture without the extra fat.

How to Make This Recipe

Step 1: Stew the Apples

Start by peeling and chopping your cooking apples into large, even chunks. This helps them cook evenly, ensuring that no piece is too firm or too mushy.

Place them in a saucepan with a splash of water and the brown sugar, and stew on low heat.

Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, letting the apples gently soften and break down into a fluffy, sauce-like consistency.

The slow cooking process enhances the apples’ natural sweetness, which is key for the perfect breakfast crisp.

If you prefer a tangy twist, use Granny Smith apples for their crisp bite and tart flavour, which contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the crumble.

Step 2: Prepare the Crumble Topping

In a mixing bowl, combine the oats, ground almonds, maple syrup, and melted coconut oil.

Use your fingertips to gently rub the ingredients together until they form a coarse, crumbly mixture.

The oats create that traditional crunchy topping, while the almonds add a nutty flavour and richness. The maple syrup gives a lovely natural sweetness without being too sugary, and the coconut oil binds it all together while adding a delicate flavour.

For extra indulgence, swap out some of the coconut oil for butter. It will give the crumble a richer, more luxurious texture.

Step 3: Assemble the Crisp

Once your apples are perfectly stewed and fragrant, transfer them into a heatproof baking dish.

Evenly spread the apples to form the base layer. For an extra kick, sprinkle a little cinnamon or nutmeg over the apples before adding the crumble. This adds a warming spice that elevates the flavour of the dish.

Now, sprinkle the crumble mixture over the apples, ensuring it’s evenly distributed without pressing down too hard—this will keep the crumble light and crispy as it bakes.

The apples will absorb some of the juices from the topping as it cooks, melding everything into a harmonious mix of textures.

Step 4: Bake the Apple Crisp

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and place the assembled crisp into the oven. Bake for about 20 minutes, or until the topping is golden and crunchy.

The oats should be lightly toasted, and the almonds will give off a delicious, nutty aroma. Keep an eye on the dish during the last 5 minutes to ensure it doesn’t burn.

If you prefer an extra crispy top, switch on the grill for the final 2-3 minutes of baking. Just watch closely to avoid burning!

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

After the crisp is baked to golden perfection, let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

The apples will still be warm and tender, and the topping will have a delightful crunch. Serve it with a generous spoonful of yogurt for a creamy, tangy contrast.

If you’re feeling indulgent, drizzle with more maple syrup or sprinkle on some cinnamon for extra flair.

This breakfast apple crisp can easily double as a dessert. Swap the yogurt for a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream to turn it into a sweet treat!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of oil instead of coconut oil?

Yes, you can substitute coconut oil with any neutral oil like vegetable or sunflower oil.

However, coconut oil adds a light sweetness and a hint of richness to the crumble that complements the other ingredients well, so it’s worth using if you have it.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply swap the regular oats for gluten-free oats, and the rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

This makes it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities or allergies.

How do I know when the apple crisp is done baking?

The apple crisp is ready when the topping turns golden brown and crunchy, and the apples are bubbling around the edges.

If you’re unsure, gently insert a fork into the apples—they should be soft and tender, not firm.

Keep an eye on the crisp during the final minutes of baking to ensure it doesn’t over-brown.

Can I make this apple crisp ahead of time?

Yes! This apple crisp is perfect for making in advance.

You can either prepare the entire dish, refrigerate it, and bake it when needed, or bake it ahead and store it in the fridge.

When you’re ready to enjoy it, reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven for a quick and delicious breakfast.

What can I serve with apple crisp besides yogurt?

While yogurt is a classic, you can also pair this crisp with other delicious toppings.

A dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or even a drizzle of custard can turn this breakfast into a more indulgent treat.

Feel free to mix and match to suit your taste!

And that’s it for this Breakfast Apple Crisp recipe. You can find the whole thing on a handy recipe card just below, so be sure to Pin it for later!

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