Healthy Breakfast Apple Crumble

Healthy Breakfast Apple Crumble is warm, naturally sweet, and packed with the comforting flavors of cinnamon, baked apples, and a crunchy oat topping. I love how it tastes like dessert, but it’s made with simple, wholesome ingredients I can feel good about eating first thing in the morning. It’s the kind of cozy breakfast that makes me excited to get out of bed.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it brings the best parts of an apple crumble—soft, cinnamon-spiced fruit and golden oat topping—without all the extra sugar or butter. It’s filling, easy to make ahead, and totally customizable. I enjoy it straight from the oven or cold from the fridge, and it’s just as good on a weekday as it is on a lazy weekend.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the apple base:

• Apples, peeled and chopped

• Maple syrup or honey

• Cinnamon

• Nutmeg (optional)

• Lemon juice

• Vanilla extract

• A tablespoon of water (to help soften the apples)

For the crumble topping:

• Rolled oats

• Almond flour or whole wheat flour

• Coconut oil or melted butter

• Maple syrup or honey

• Cinnamon

• Chopped nuts or seeds (optional for crunch)

• Pinch of salt

Directions

1. I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a small baking dish.

2. In a bowl, I toss the chopped apples with lemon juice, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla, and water, then spread them evenly in the baking dish.

3. In another bowl, I mix the oats, flour, coconut oil, maple syrup, cinnamon, salt, and nuts (if using) until it forms a crumbly texture.

4. I sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the apples.

5. I bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the topping is golden.

6. I let it cool for a few minutes before serving warm—or let it chill and eat it cold later.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings and takes around 45 minutes from start to finish. It’s perfect for breakfast meal prep or a slow morning treat.

Variations

• I add chopped pears or berries to the apple mix.

• I mix chia seeds or ground flax into the crumble for extra nutrients.

• I use dairy-free butter or coconut oil to keep it vegan.

• I top it with Greek yogurt or almond milk for a protein boost.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, I microwave a portion for 30–45 seconds or warm the whole dish in the oven at 300°F. It also tastes great cold or at room temperature.

FAQs

Can I use any type of apple?

Yes! I like using a mix of sweet and tart apples—like Honeycrisp and Granny Smith—for the best flavor.

Is this sweet enough for breakfast?

It’s lightly sweetened with maple syrup or honey, so it feels like a treat without being overly sugary.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Definitely. I bake it the night before and warm up portions in the morning, or eat it cold straight from the fridge.

Can I freeze this?

Yes! I freeze portions in airtight containers. To reheat, I thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in the microwave or oven.

What can I serve it with?

I love it with a scoop of Greek yogurt, nut butter, or a splash of plant-based milk.

Conclusion

Healthy Breakfast Apple Crumble is the perfect blend of cozy and nourishing. I love how it satisfies my sweet tooth while giving me a balanced start to the day. Whether I’m enjoying it fresh out of the oven or cold as a quick breakfast, it’s always a comforting, wholesome favorite that never disappoints.

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