I love warm, cozy apple desserts — and this super-simple, healthier apple crumble is one of my favorites.
This lighter version of apple crisp is adapted from a recipe that first appeared in Cooking Light in 1999. It’s straightforward, nostalgic, and uses everyday ingredients you likely already have on hand: apples, a few slices of whole wheat sandwich bread, butter, sugar, and spices. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream if you like.
It’s an excellent kid-friendly dessert and a fun activity to make with children. The recipe is simple, with no unexpected ingredients, and it’s a crowd-pleaser.
Super Simple Healthy Apple Crumble
Ingredients
-
4
one-ounce slices of whole wheat sandwich bread -
3
tbsp
melted butter -
4
large apples (about 2 lbs) -
1/4
cup
granulated sugar -
1/4
cup
brown sugar -
1
tsp
cinnamon -
1/4
tsp
salt -
1/2
cup
apple cider, apple juice, or water -
1/2
lemon, zested and juiced
optional -
1
tsp
vanilla extract
Instructions
-
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
-
Pulse the bread in a food processor until it becomes fine crumbs. Toss the crumbs with the melted butter and set aside.
-
Peel and slice the apples. In a large bowl, combine the apples with the granulated and brown sugars, cinnamon, salt, apple cider (or juice or water), lemon zest and juice if using, and vanilla. Toss gently to coat.
-
In an 8×8-inch square baking dish or a deep pie dish, spread half of the apple mixture (including any juices). Sprinkle half of the bread crumbs over the apples. Add the remaining apple mixture, then top with the remaining crumbs.
-
Bake for 50 minutes to 1 hour, until the topping is golden brown and the apples are bubbling. Let cool slightly before serving.