Name: Apple Peanut Butter Crisp {Whole Wheat} Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 medium apples (such as Honeycrisp or Fuji), peeled, cored, and sliced; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon; 1 tablespoon whole wheat flour; 1 tablespoon maple syrup; 1/2 cup rolled oats; 1/3 cup whole wheat flour; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup natural peanut butter; 2 tablespoons coconut oil or unsalted butter, melted

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If you love the cozy combination of apples and peanut butter, you’re about to meet your new favorite treat: Apple Peanut Butter Crisp {Whole Wheat}. This comforting dessert brings together sweet, tender apples, a touch of cinnamon, and a modern twist with a hearty whole wheat and peanut butter crumble topping. It smells like pure autumn magic as it bakes, yet is wholesome enough to satisfy both the health-conscious and those seeking a nostalgic, homey comfort. Served warm, this crisp is the best way to welcome friends and family to the table, no matter the season.

Apple Peanut Butter Crisp {Whole Wheat} Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for Apple Peanut Butter Crisp {Whole Wheat} are refreshingly simple, but each one pulls its weight for flavor, crunch, and that signature coziness. With just a few pantry staples and fresh apples, you’ll whip up something truly special.

Apples: Choose tart-sweet varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji for the perfect balance of flavor; peeling and slicing gets them ready to soak up all those delicious spices.
Lemon Juice: A splash of lemon brightens the apples and prevents browning while adding a delicate zing.
Cinnamon: Warm and fragrant, this classic spice weaves the apples and topping together with autumnal notes.
Whole Wheat Flour: Used in both filling and topping, whole wheat flour adds a nutty richness and extra fiber you can feel good about.
Maple Syrup: A drizzle sneaks in natural sweetness and a subtle depth to the fruit base.
Rolled Oats: Essential for the crisp’s signature topping, they add wholesome crunch and heartiness.
Brown Sugar: Just enough for that classic caramel-like sweetness in every bite.
Salt: Balances all that sweetness and enhances the nutty flavors from the peanut butter and wheat.
Natural Peanut Butter: This unexpected twist delivers a creamy, nutty layer that makes this crisp extra irresistible.
Coconut Oil or Unsalted Butter: Melts everything together for that irresistible golden finish—choose coconut oil for a subtle tropical note or butter for pure richness.

How to Make Apple Peanut Butter Crisp {Whole Wheat}

Step 1: Prep and Slice the Apples

Begin by peeling, coring, and slicing the apples into even pieces. This step ensures every bite bakes up tender, and using a crisp variety like Honeycrisp or Fuji means you’ll get just the right mix of tart and sweet. Toss the slices with lemon juice—this keeps them fresh and bright—then move on to flavoring.

Step 2: Season the Fruit

Add the cinnamon, whole wheat flour, and maple syrup to the apples and toss everything until the slices are evenly coated. The flour will help thicken the juices as the crisp bakes, while the cinnamon and maple syrup infuse the apples with warmth and complexity.

Step 3: Arrange in the Baking Dish

Lightly grease your 8×8-inch baking dish to prevent sticking, then spread the prepared apple mixture evenly into the pan. This way, the fruit cooks evenly and soaks up all the glorious topping you’ll add next.

Step 4: Mix the Topping

In a separate bowl, combine the rolled oats, whole wheat flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. These dry ingredients form the hearty base that contrasts beautifully with the soft apples. Stir in the peanut butter and then drizzle in the melted coconut oil or butter so the mixture gets crumbly—don’t over-mix, a little texture is perfect!

Step 5: Crumble and Bake

Sprinkle the peanut butter oat topping generously over the apple layer, covering as much as possible. Now, bake at 350°F for 35 to 40 minutes. The apples will bubble up and soften, while the topping turns gorgeously golden and fragrant—trust your nose here!

Step 6: Cool Slightly and Serve

Let your Apple Peanut Butter Crisp {Whole Wheat} rest for a few minutes out of the oven; this helps everything set just a bit so the juices don’t run wild when serving. It’s best enjoyed warm, so grab your favorite spoon and get ready for dessert bliss.

How to Serve Apple Peanut Butter Crisp {Whole Wheat}

Garnishes

This crisp is a warm hug all on its own, but a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of vanilla yogurt truly takes things over the top. Try a dusting of cinnamon or a sprinkle of extra toasted oats for a pretty, professional finish.

Side Dishes

Serve your Apple Peanut Butter Crisp {Whole Wheat} as a cozy ending to a fall-inspired meal, perhaps alongside roasted chicken or seasonal vegetable dishes. For a brunch touch, pair it with fresh fruit and strong coffee—who says crisp is just for dessert?

Creative Ways to Present

For an extra-special brunch or dessert bar, spoon the crisp into individual ramekins before baking. Or layer cooled crisp into parfait glasses with additional yogurt or whipped cream for a fun, eye-catching treat. Don’t forget—this recipe also shines with a mix of apples and pears, or even a handful of late-summer berries for a fresh twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Apple Peanut Butter Crisp {Whole Wheat} keeps well for several days in the refrigerator. Simply cover the baking dish with foil or transfer leftovers to an airtight container. The flavors deepen overnight, making tomorrow’s treat even better!

Freezing

If you want to save a batch for later, let the crisp cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic and foil or store in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

For best results, reheat individual portions in the microwave for quick coziness, or warm the whole dish in a 300°F oven until heated through and the topping is crisp again. If you love a crunchier topping, uncover the dish for the last few minutes of reheating.

FAQs

Can I make Apple Peanut Butter Crisp {Whole Wheat} gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply substitute the whole wheat flour for your favorite gluten-free blend and ensure your oats are certified gluten-free. The crisp will be just as delicious and crowd-pleasing.

What’s the best apple variety to use?

Honeycrisp, Fuji, and Gala apples all work wonderfully thanks to their firm texture and balanced sweetness, but feel free to mix and match for even more depth of flavor.

Can I use crunchy peanut butter?

Yes, and it’s highly encouraged if you love extra texture! The little peanut bits add a delightful crunch that pairs perfectly with the softness of the baked apples.

Is it possible to make this vegan?

Definitely—choose coconut oil as your fat instead of butter, and double-check that your sugar and syrup are vegan-friendly. Every bite will still be rich, nutty, and indulgent.

How do I know when my crisp is done?

Look for bubbling juices around the edges and a deep golden, crisp topping. You’ll also notice the heavenly aroma that will fill your whole kitchen—if it smells amazing and looks golden, it’s ready!

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a dessert that brings a sense of warmth, nostalgia, and just a bit of wholesome goodness, Apple Peanut Butter Crisp {Whole Wheat} truly delivers. Gather up your apples and friends—this is one recipe you’ll want to make again and again!

Apple Peanut Butter Crisp {Whole Wheat} Recipe

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4.7 from 7 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Apple Peanut Butter Crisp is a wholesome and delicious dessert that combines the natural sweetness of apples with a crispy whole wheat and peanut butter topping. Perfect for a cozy fall treat!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Filling:

4 medium apples (such as Honeycrisp or Fuji), peeled, cored, and sliced
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1 tablespoon whole wheat flour
1 tablespoon maple syrup

For the Topping:

1/2 cup rolled oats
1/3 cup whole wheat flour
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup natural peanut butter
2 tablespoons coconut oil or unsalted butter, melted

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Instructions

Preheat the oven and prepare the baking dish: Preheat the oven to 350°F and lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish.
Prepare the apple filling: In a large bowl, toss the sliced apples with lemon juice, cinnamon, whole wheat flour, and maple syrup until well coated. Spread the apple mixture in the baking dish.
Make the topping: In a separate bowl, combine oats, whole wheat flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Add peanut butter and melted coconut oil or butter, and stir until crumbly. Sprinkle the topping over the apples.
Bake: Bake for 35–40 minutes until apples are soft and bubbling, and topping is golden brown. Let cool slightly before serving.