If you’re craving a comfort dessert that brings together the wholesome goodness of whole grains with the nostalgic flavors of peanut butter and apples, you’ve got to try this Apple Peanut Butter Crisp {Whole Wheat} Recipe. It’s the perfect balance of sweet and tart, with a crunchy, golden topping that highlights the nutty richness of peanut butter. Every bite feels like a warm hug, and the whole wheat flour adds a lovely, slightly nutty twist that makes this crisp feel both indulgent and nourishing. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight treat or a special weekend bake, this recipe is destined to become a staple on your dessert rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its simple, thoughtful ingredients that each play a vital role in creating that perfect harmony of texture and flavor. You’ll find that these pantry staples make assembling the crisp both easy and rewarding, so get ready to gather your ingredients and enjoy some delightful cooking.
- 5 medium apples: A mix of tart and sweet varieties ensures the topping is perfectly balanced in flavor and juiciness.
- 2 tbsp lemon juice: Adds brightness and prevents the apple slices from browning while enhancing flavor.
- ⅓ cup maple syrup or honey: Natural sweetness that complements the fruit without overpowering it.
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon: Brings warmth and depth, a classic match for apples.
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg: Adds a subtle fragrant spice for complexity.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Elevates the overall taste with its rich, sweet aroma.
- ¾ cup rolled oats: Provides heartiness and a chewy texture to the crumble topping.
- ½ cup whole wheat flour: The wholesome base for the topping, offering a pleasant nuttiness and extra fiber.
- ⅓ cup creamy peanut butter: Makes this crisp uniquely creamy and nutty, adding richness.
- ⅓ cup coconut sugar or brown sugar: Enhances the crisp’s caramel notes and balances acidity.
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted: Binds the topping and creates that irresistible golden crust.
- ¼ tsp salt: Highlights all the flavors and prevents the sweetness from feeling one-dimensional.
How to Make Apple Peanut Butter Crisp {Whole Wheat} Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish to keep your crisp from sticking and to help it bake evenly with gorgeous browning around the edges. Setting the right temperature from the start ensures the apples soften perfectly and the topping crisps up delightfully.
Step 2: Toss the Apples in Flavor
In a large bowl, toss the peeled, cored, and sliced apples with lemon juice, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract. This mixture infuses every slice with a fragrant, layered sweetness and a hint of spice, while the lemon juice keeps the slices fresh-looking and bright. Spread the apples evenly in your prepared baking dish so every bite delivers that luscious fruit base.
Step 3: Make the Peanut Butter Crumble Topping
In a separate bowl, combine the rolled oats, whole wheat flour, coconut sugar, and salt. Adding the creamy peanut butter and melted butter transforms these dry ingredients into a crumbly, flavorful topping. The peanut butter makes this crisp stand out with its creamy, nutty richness, perfectly balanced by the malty sweetness of whole wheat and coconut sugar.
Step 4: Assemble and Add the Topping
Sprinkle your peanut butter crumble evenly over the apple filling. The even distribution ensures every spoonful has a luscious layer of crunch and nutty goodness. Don’t worry if the topping looks a little loose—it will come together beautifully during baking.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Tender
Pop the apple crisp into your preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. Look for bubbly, tender apples and a golden-brown topping that smells irresistible. This baking time is just right to allow the apples to soften while the oat and peanut butter topping crisps up beautifully.
Step 6: Cool and Serve Warm
Once out of the oven, let the crisp cool for 5 to 10 minutes. This resting time lets the juices thicken slightly, making serving easier and enhancing the flavors. Serve the Apple Peanut Butter Crisp {Whole Wheat} Recipe warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of creamy yogurt for the ultimate cozy dessert experience.
How to Serve Apple Peanut Butter Crisp {Whole Wheat} Recipe
Garnishes
This crisp is fantastic on its own, but you can elevate it by garnishing with a sprinkle of toasted chopped peanuts or a drizzle of creamy peanut butter on top. A dusting of cinnamon or a few fresh apple slices also add a lovely touch of color and aroma that will impress your guests and delight your family.
Side Dishes
Apple Peanut Butter Crisp {Whole Wheat} Recipe pairs beautifully with simple sides like vanilla ice cream or Greek yogurt. The cool creaminess contrasts perfectly with the warm baked apples and crunchy topping. For a brunch spread, consider serving alongside a cup of hot coffee or chai tea to warm you up and round out this comforting treat.
Creative Ways to Present
What if you turned this classic crisp into a parfait? Layer warm Apple Peanut Butter Crisp {Whole Wheat} Recipe with yogurt and fresh fruit inside a clear glass for a feast for the eyes and palate. You can also serve individual portions in small ramekins for an elegant presentation, great for dinner parties or holiday gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled completely, store any leftover Apple Peanut Butter Crisp {Whole Wheat} Recipe covered in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to four days and only gets better as the flavors meld. Simply reheat individual servings as needed to enjoy that comforting warmth anytime.
Freezing
This crisp freezes wonderfully. After baking and cooling, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or transfer to an airtight container before freezing. It will maintain its flavor and texture for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in the oven for a freshly baked taste.
Reheating
To reheat, place individual portions in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 15 minutes or until warmed through and the topping regains its crispness. You can also microwave it, but keep in mind the topping might soften slightly. Pairing with ice cream or yogurt is just as delightful when reheated.
FAQs
Can I use frozen apples for this recipe?
Yes, you can! Just be sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess liquid making the crisp soggy. Frozen apples may release more juice, so adjusting baking time slightly longer can help.
Is it possible to make this recipe nut-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or a mild tahini to keep that creamy texture and nutty flavor without actual nuts.
What if I don’t have coconut sugar?
No problem! Brown sugar, as listed in the recipe, works perfectly. Either one will add subtle caramel notes and help the topping crisp up nicely.
Can I make this dessert vegan?
Yes, simply use a plant-based butter substitute and ensure your sweetener (like maple syrup) is vegan-friendly. This way, the Apple Peanut Butter Crisp {Whole Wheat} Recipe retains its rich flavor without any animal products.
How do I get the topping extra crispy?
A small trick is to dot a few extra small pieces of cold butter on top just before baking or sprinkle a little extra brown sugar. This caramelizes and crisps wonderfully under the heat.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something so comforting and satisfying about the Apple Peanut Butter Crisp {Whole Wheat} Recipe that makes it impossible not to adore. It’s easy to prepare, full of wholesome ingredients, and layered with flavors that bring warmth and joy to any table. Give it a try, and I promise it will become a new favorite to share with your loved ones over and over again.
Print
Apple Peanut Butter Crisp {Whole Wheat} Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A wholesome and delicious Apple Peanut Butter Crisp made with whole wheat flour and natural sweeteners, combining tender spiced apples with a crunchy peanut butter oat topping. Perfect as a comforting dessert or a hearty snack.
Ingredients
Fruit Mixture
- 5 medium apples, peeled, cored, and sliced (mix of tart and sweet varieties)
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- ⅓ cup maple syrup or honey
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Topping
- ¾ cup rolled oats
- ½ cup whole wheat flour
- ⅓ cup creamy peanut butter
- ⅓ cup coconut sugar or brown sugar
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish to ensure the crisp doesn’t stick during baking.
- Prepare the Apple Mixture: In a large bowl, toss the peeled, cored, and sliced apples with lemon juice, maple syrup, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and vanilla extract. This mixture balances tartness and sweetness and adds aromatic spices. Spread the apple mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Make the Topping: In a separate bowl, combine rolled oats, whole wheat flour, coconut sugar, and salt. Add creamy peanut butter and melted unsalted butter, mixing thoroughly until the mixture becomes crumbly, creating the crisp’s signature topping texture.
- Assemble the Crisp: Sprinkle the peanut butter oat topping evenly over the apple layer in the baking dish, ensuring full coverage for an even bake and texture.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the apples are tender when pierced with a fork and the topping is golden brown and crisp.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool for 5-10 minutes to let the juices settle. Serve warm, optionally topped with ice cream or yogurt for extra creaminess.
Notes
- Use a mix of tart and sweet apples like Granny Smith and Fuji for balanced flavor.
- Lemon juice not only adds flavor but prevents apples from browning.
- Maple syrup or honey can be substituted depending on your preference or dietary needs.
- For a vegan version, substitute butter with coconut oil or a vegan margarine.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently in the oven to restore crispiness before serving.
