Chai Spice Apple Crumble
This chai-spiced apple crumble is warm, crunchy, and secretly good for you—a perfect balance of flavor and nutrition.
Ingredients
For the Apple Filling
- 6 medium apples (Honeycrisp and Granny Smith, peeled and thinly sliced) Use a mix for balanced flavor.
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice Keeps apples bright.
- 1/4 cup maple syrup Natural sweetness for filling.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract Adds warmth.
- 1.5 tbsp arrowroot starch or cornstarch Thickens apple juices.
- 1/4 cup raisins or chopped dates (optional) Extra sweetness and chew.
For the Crumble Topping
- 1 cup rolled oats Base for crunchy crumble.
- 3/4 cup almond flour Gluten-free option.
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans) For crunch.
- 3 tbsp coconut oil, melted Binds the topping.
- 1/4 tsp sea salt Enhances flavors.
- 3 tbsp maple syrup (for topping) Adds sweetness.
- 2 tsp chai spice mix (includes cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, cloves, allspice, black pepper, nutmeg) Use the remaining for the crumble.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease an 8x8-inch baking dish.
- Peel and thinly slice the apples, about 1/4-inch thick.
Make the Apple Filling
- In a large bowl, toss the sliced apples with lemon juice, 1/4 cup maple syrup, 1 tsp vanilla, 1 tbsp chai spice mix, and arrowroot starch. Add raisins if using.
- Pour the apple mixture into the baking dish and spread evenly.
Prepare the Crumble
- In another bowl, combine oats, almond flour, chopped nuts, remaining chai spice mix (about 1.5 tsp), sea salt, and 3 tbsp maple syrup.
- Drizzle in melted coconut oil and stir until crumbles form. The mixture should be clumpy.
Bake
- Scatter the crumble topping evenly over the apples, without pressing down.
- Bake for 35–45 minutes until the topping is golden and apple juices are bubbling. Tent with foil if browning too fast.
- Let it rest for 10–15 minutes before serving.
Serve
- Serve with Greek yogurt, coconut yogurt, or vanilla ice cream.
Notes
Cool completely and store in the fridge for up to 4 days. Spices deepen overnight; it's better on day two.