Better-For-You Apple Blueberry Crisp

This is the cozy, bubbling, cinnamon-scented kind of recipe that you need in your life right now. The fruit filling comes together in one bowl, the oat topping gets stirred with a fork, and the whole thing bakes into a golden, jammy crisp that is just bursting with flavor.

This apple blueberry crisp is a lighter take on the classic. It’s naturally sweetened with fruit, packed with fiber-rich ingredients, and made with a simple oat topping that gives you plenty of crunch without needing a lot of added sugar.

Why I Love This Crisp

• Apples provide fiber

Apples are a good source of fiber, particularly when you leave the skin on. Fiber helps support digestion and can help keep you feeling satisfied.

• Blueberries add antioxidants

Blueberries are rich in antioxidants, including anthocyanins, which give them their beautiful deep-blue color. Adding berries is an easy way to boost the nutritional value of a dessert.

• Oats add energy

Old-fashioned oats provide whole grains and fiber, making the topping more satisfying than a traditional crumble made primarily with flour and sugar.

• A little healthy fat goes a long way

This recipe uses a moderate amount of avocado oil in the topping. You still get that delicious crisp texture and flavor without needing heavy ingredients.

And perhaps most importantly: healthy eating doesn't mean you have to skip dessert. A nourishing approach to eating can include foods that are delicious, comforting, and satisfying.

Good, wholesome ingredients without compromising on taste

Blueberry Apple Crisp

Ingredients

For the fruit filling:

• 4 medium apples, diced

• 1½ cups fresh or frozen blueberries

  
  

For the crisp topping:

• 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats

• ½ cup white whole-wheat flour

• ⅓ cup brown sugar or maple sugar

• ½ tsp cinnamon

• ¼ tsp salt

• 4 tbsp avocado oil

• 2 tbsp maple syrup

  
  

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.

2. Prepare the filling: Combine the diced apples and blueberries and add to baking dish.

3. Make the topping: In a bowl, mix the oats, flour, brown sugar or maple sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Add the oil and maple syrup and stir until the mixture becomes crumbly.

4. Assemble: Sprinkle the oat mixture evenly over the fruit.

5. Bake for 35–45 minutes, until the fruit is bubbling and the topping is golden brown.

6. Let it cool for about 10 minutes before serving. It will thicken slightly as it cools.

Prepare in ramekins for an individual presentation

Tips

Tastes delicious served warm, cold, or even room temperature.

This crisp freezes nicely. Reheat once defrosted to re-crisp the topping.

Consider making extra topping to keep on hand in the freezer, and experiment with different fruit combinations to find your favorite!

A Simple Reminder

You don't need to completely transform your favorite foods to make them more nourishing. Small changes—adding fruit, choosing whole grains, and being mindful of added sugar—can make a big difference while still keeping food enjoyable.

That's what balanced eating is all about: nourishing your body without taking the joy out of eating.

Learn more at Nourish by Michal Bane RD, LDN