Imagine the comforting aroma of spiced apples and the irresistible richness of peanut butter coming together under a golden, nutty topping – that’s the joy of Apple Peanut Butter Crisp {Whole Wheat}! This wholesome dessert is a tasty twist on tradition, blending gently tart baked apples, a crave-worthy peanut butter oat streusel, and the subtle complexity of whole wheat flour for a treat that’s both nourishing and indulgent. Whether you’re a lifelong apple crisp fan, a peanut butter devotee, or simply seeking a cozy bake to share, you’ll want to make this recipe all season long.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All you need are a handful of straightforward ingredients, each bringing something special to the table. These pantry staples work their magic to create the perfect balance of juicy fruit, hearty crunch, and nutty warmth that makes Apple Peanut Butter Crisp {Whole Wheat} impossible to resist.
- Apples: The stars of the show – choose a blend of sweet and tart varieties for depth of flavor and a perfect baking texture.
- Lemon juice: A splash keeps the apples vibrant and balances their natural sweetness.
- Maple syrup: Adds natural sweetness and a subtle caramel note that mingles beautifully with the apples and peanut butter.
- Cinnamon: Warm, aromatic spice that defines classic apple desserts.
- Nutmeg: Just a pinch gives the filling extra cozy depth.
- Whole wheat flour: Lends heartiness and nutty flavor to the crisp topping, making this version a little more wholesome.
- Rolled oats: Create a delightfully rustic texture and help soak up the juices.
- Natural peanut butter: Nutty richness elevates the topping, making every bite unforgettable.
- Coconut oil or unsalted butter: Melts into the oats for a crisp, golden, and aromatic topping.
- Brown sugar: Brings molasses-like sweetness to round out the tart apples and savory peanut butter.
- Salt: Just enough to make all the flavors pop and balance the sweetness.
How to Make Apple Peanut Butter Crisp {Whole Wheat}
Step 1: Prep and Preheat
Get your oven nice and hot by preheating it to 350°F, and lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish with a little coconut oil or butter. This ensures your Apple Peanut Butter Crisp {Whole Wheat} slides out effortlessly and bakes evenly for lovely, neat squares (if you can wait for it to cool!).
Step 2: Mix the Apple Filling
In a large mixing bowl, toss your thinly sliced apples with lemon juice, maple syrup, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Make sure each slice is coated with this spiced syrup – it’s the secret to bright, juicy apples throughout your crisp.
Step 3: Assemble the Crisp Base
Spread the apple mixture evenly in your prepared baking dish. Don’t worry if it looks a little tall; the apples will slump and get wonderfully soft as they bake, forming the luscious foundation of your Apple Peanut Butter Crisp {Whole Wheat}.
Step 4: Make the Peanut Butter Oat Topping
In a separate bowl, stir together whole wheat flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, and salt until well mixed. Add the peanut butter and melted coconut oil or butter, blending with a fork or your fingertips until the mixture is crumbly and holds together in small clumps. This peanut butter oat topping sets this crisp apart from the classic version!
Step 5: Top and Bake
Sprinkle the crumble mixture evenly over the apples, covering them right to the edges for maximum flavor and crunch. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, until the topping is a deep golden brown and apples are soft and bubbling around the edges. Let it rest for 10 minutes, allowing the topping to set and giving you the patience to avoid burning your tongue!
How to Serve Apple Peanut Butter Crisp {Whole Wheat}
Garnishes
A drift of vanilla yogurt or ice cream on each serving adds creamy coolness that contrasts perfectly with the warm Apple Peanut Butter Crisp {Whole Wheat}. For a fancier finish, add a scatter of chopped roasted peanuts or a little drizzle of warm extra peanut butter on top.
Side Dishes
This dessert is a statement on its own, but for a dinner party, try serving it after a hearty fall salad, roasted chicken, or even a simple soup. Apple Peanut Butter Crisp {Whole Wheat} acts as a comforting finale that brings out the best of autumn flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For casual gatherings, bake and serve it straight from the dish. For guests, serve individual portions in small ramekins, or layer warm crisp with yogurt in parfait glasses for a fun twist. Apple Peanut Butter Crisp {Whole Wheat} also makes a surprising brunch treat paired with strong coffee!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, just cover the dish or transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The topping will stay pleasantly crisp and the flavors continue to meld, making the Apple Peanut Butter Crisp {Whole Wheat} even better on day two.
Freezing
To freeze, cool the crisp completely. Wrap the entire baked dish well in plastic wrap and foil, or portion into freezer containers. It’ll keep beautifully for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating so the topping stays delightfully crumbly.
Reheating
Warm individual portions in the microwave for a quick treat, or reheat the whole dish in a 350°F oven, covered loosely with foil, until hot throughout (about 20 minutes). Remove the foil for the last few minutes to restore the topping’s crunch. Apple Peanut Butter Crisp {Whole Wheat} tastes just as fantastic reheated!
FAQs
What apple varieties work best for Apple Peanut Butter Crisp {Whole Wheat}?
A combination of tart and sweet apples (like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp) gives you the best flavor and texture. However, this recipe is forgiving – use whatever apples you have, or mix different kinds for complexity.
Can I make Apple Peanut Butter Crisp {Whole Wheat} vegan?
Absolutely! Simply use coconut oil instead of butter for a vegan version. Double-check that your peanut butter and other ingredients are plant-based, and your dessert will be entirely vegan-friendly.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can swap the whole wheat flour for your favorite all-purpose gluten-free flour blend, and ensure your rolled oats are certified gluten-free. The results are just as delicious and satisfying.
Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?
Definitely! Chopped roasted peanuts, walnuts, or pecans stirred into the topping add a delightful crunch. Dried fruit, like cranberries or raisins, can be mixed with the apples for extra bursts of flavor.
What’s the best way to serve Apple Peanut Butter Crisp {Whole Wheat}?
I love it warm, freshly baked, topped with vanilla yogurt or a scoop of your favorite ice cream. You can also get creative with whipped cream or even a dollop of peanut butter for an extra-indulgent treat.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a deliciously different take on comfort dessert, Apple Peanut Butter Crisp {Whole Wheat} is calling your name. It’s simple, full of nourishing ingredients, and guaranteed to get rave reviews at any table. Give it a try – I can’t wait for it to become your new go-to treat!
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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
Indulge in this delicious and wholesome Apple Peanut Butter Crisp made with whole wheat flour. It’s the perfect balance of sweet and nutty flavors, topped with a crunchy oat-peanut butter crumble.
Ingredients
For the Apple Filling:
- 5 medium apples, peeled, cored, and sliced thin
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/3 cup natural peanut butter
- 1/4 cup coconut oil or unsalted butter (melted)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F and lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish.
- Prepare the Apples: In a large mixing bowl, toss the sliced apples with lemon juice, maple syrup, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Spread the apple mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Make the Topping: In another bowl, stir together the whole wheat flour, oats, brown sugar, and salt. Add the peanut butter and melted coconut oil or butter, mixing until crumbly and evenly combined.
- Top the Apples: Sprinkle the oat-peanut butter topping evenly over the apples.
- Bake: Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are soft and bubbly.
- Serve: Let cool for 10 minutes before serving. Serve warm on its own or with a scoop of vanilla yogurt or ice cream.
Notes
- You can use any variety of apples, but a mix of tart and sweet (like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp) adds great flavor.
- For a vegan version, use coconut oil instead of butter.
- Add chopped peanuts to the topping for extra crunch.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
