10 min
35-40 mins
1 Apple Crisp
Desert
United States
This Elderberry Apple Crisp is the perfect dessert for cozy fall evenings, combining the comforting warmth of baked apples with the unique, slightly tart flavor of elderberry syrup. The crisp, tender apples release their natural sweetness as they bake, creating a soft, caramel-like filling that pairs beautifully with the rich, fruity notes of elderberry. The syrup adds a lovely depth to the dish, bringing a boost of antioxidants and a subtle berry flavor that complements the traditional spices of cinnamon and nutmeg.
Ingredients
- 6 medium apples (Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or your favorite), peeled, cored, and sliced
- 2 tbsp elderberry syrup
- 1/4 cup maple syrup or honey
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp nutmeg
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp cornstarch or all-purpose flour
For the crumble topping:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup almond flour (or flour of choice)
- 1/4 cup coconut sugar or brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 cup melted coconut oil or butter
- A pinch of salt
Directions
Preheat the oven
Turn oven on to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x9-inch baking dish or pie dish.
Prepare the filling:
In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, elderberry syrup, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and flour. Mix well until the apples are evenly coated.
Transfer the filling:
Transfer to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Make the crumble topping:
In a separate bowl, mix together the rolled oats, almond flour, coconut sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Stir in the melted coconut oil (or butter) until the mixture is crumbly.
Sprinkle the crumble:
add the topping evenly over the apple mixture in the baking dish.
Bake your crisp:
Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown. If the topping starts to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with foil for the remaining baking time.
Serve warm:
Optionally topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt.
Can I use a different type of fruit in this recipe?
Yes, you can! Pears, peaches, or a mix of berries would work well with the elderberry syrup. Just adjust the cooking time based on the fruit’s tenderness. Mixing apples and pears is also a great option for a fall-inspired twist.
What type of apples should I use for the best results?
Firm apples that hold their shape during baking work best, like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn. Granny Smith will give a slightly tart flavor, while Honeycrisp adds extra sweetness.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! This recipe can easily be made gluten-free by using gluten-free oats and almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend in the crumble topping. Double-check that the elderberry syrup you use is also gluten-free if necessary.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, this recipe is vegan-friendly if you use coconut oil instead of butter. Also, ensure that the elderberry syrup and any additional sweeteners you use are vegan-friendly. Our maple elderberry syrup is vegan!
How should I store leftover apple crisp?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave.
Can I prepare the apple crisp ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the apple filling and crumble topping separately and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply assemble and bake according to the instructions. This is a great time-saver for busy days!
What can I substitute for elderberry syrup?
If you don't have elderberry syrup, you can use maple syrup or a mix of berry preserves for a similar sweet and fruity flavor. However, the elderberry syrup adds a unique flavor and antioxidant boost, so it’s worth including if you can!
Can I make this recipe lower in sugar?
Yes, to reduce the sugar, you can use less maple syrup or honey in the filling and opt for a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit in the crumble topping. Keep in mind that adjusting the sweeteners may change the taste slightly.
What should I serve with this elderberry apple crisp?
This apple crisp is delicious on its own, but you can elevate it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or even a spoonful of Greek yogurt for a bit of tanginess. The cool, creamy toppings balance out the warmth of the crisp perfectly.