Baked Apples with Oatmeal Crumble
Baked apples are a classic fall dessert, and this version, topped with a gluten-free oat crumble, is a healthier and more flavorful take on the original. The apples are tender and juicy, with a hint of tartness from the lemon juice. The oat crumble is crispy and nutty, with a hint of spice from the cinnamon and nutmeg.
Baked apples have been a popular dessert for centuries, and there are countless variations on the recipe. This particular version was inspired by a recipe that I found in an old cookbook from the early 1900s. The original recipe called for white sugar and all-purpose flour, but I updated it to use gluten-free rolled oats and light brown sugar. I also added a bit of lemon juice to brighten the flavor of the apples. The result is a delicious and healthy dessert that is perfect for a fall evening.
Baked Apples with Oatmeal Crumble Baked Apples with Oatmeal Crumble Baked Apples with Oatmeal Crumble Baked Apples with Oatmeal Crumble
Prep time: 15 | Cook time: 55 | Serves: 4
Ingredients
  • 4 medium apples, peeled and cored
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 cup gluten-free rolled oats
  • 1/4 cup chopped pecans
  • 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Instructions
  1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
  2. Place apples in a single layer in a baking dish.
  3. In a small bowl, combine lemon juice, 1/4 cup brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
  4. Spoon mixture over apples.
  5. In a separate bowl, combine oats, pecans, 1/4 cup brown sugar, and cinnamon.
  6. Stir in butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  7. Sprinkle crumb mixture over apples.
  8. Bake in preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until apples are tender and crumb topping is golden brown.
  9. Let cool for 10 minutes before serving.
Why It Works
  • The lemon juice helps to keep the apples from browning and adds a bit of tartness to the dessert.
  • The oat crumble is made with gluten-free rolled oats, which makes it a healthier and more flavorful alternative to traditional bread crumbs.
  • The combination of cinnamon and nutmeg gives the oat crumble a warm and spicy flavor.
  • Baking the apples at a high temperature helps to caramelize the natural sugars in the apples and creates a delicious, golden brown crust.