Cheese Apple Crisp (With Splenda or Sugar Twin)
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Category: Dessert
Servings: 6
Yield: 1 dish
Description
If you’re looking for a delightful twist on a classic dessert, this Cheese Apple Crisp is sure to impress. Sweet, juicy apples paired with a crisp, buttery topping infused with shredded cheese make this a dessert that’s hard to resist. The use of Splenda or Sugar Twin makes it a lower-sugar alternative, without sacrificing flavor. This apple crisp is not only easy to make, but it’s also a perfect way to enjoy the rich flavors of apples, spices, and cheese, all baked into one delicious dish. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying end to a weeknight dinner or a cozy dessert for gatherings, this Cheese Apple Crisp will hit the spot every time.
Ingredients and Nutritional Information
| Ingredient | Quantity | Nutritional Content (per serving) |
|---|---|---|
| Sliced apples | 4 cups | Low in calories, rich in fiber |
| Ground cinnamon | 1/2 tsp | Adds flavor with minimal calories |
| Water | 1/2 cup | No calories |
| Lemon juice | 1 1/2 tbsp | Adds tang, rich in vitamin C |
| Splenda sugar substitute | 1 cup | Low calorie alternative |
| All-purpose flour | 2/3 cup | Provides structure, about 91 cal |
| Salt | 1/4 tsp | Enhances flavor |
| Butter, unsalted | 1/3 cup | High in fat, adds richness |
| Shredded cheese (cheddar) | 1/4 cup | Protein and fat, adds sharp flavor |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 242.4 kcal
- Fat: 15.1 g
- Saturated Fat: 9.4 g
- Cholesterol: 39.2 mg
- Sodium: 282.4 mg
- Carbohydrates: 22.6 g
- Fiber: 2.2 g
- Sugar: 7.7 g
- Protein: 5.5 g
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Apples
Begin by arranging the sliced apples in a shallow, greased baking pan. Make sure to distribute the apple slices evenly for a uniform bake. For the best results, use apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, which hold their shape and offer a tart flavor that complements the sweetness of the topping. -
Add Flavor
Sprinkle the ground cinnamon over the apples, coating them evenly. The cinnamon will infuse the apples with a warm, spiced flavor that pairs perfectly with the tartness of the apples. -
Moisten with Water and Lemon Juice
In the next step, pour the water and lemon juice over the apples. The water helps to create steam during the baking process, keeping the apples tender. The lemon juice adds a subtle tanginess, balancing the sweetness of the apples and sugar substitute. -
Prepare the Crumble Topping
In a separate bowl, combine the Splenda (or Sugar Twin), flour, and salt. Stir these dry ingredients together until well mixed. This is the base for your crumble topping. -
Work in the Butter
Add the cold butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter, fork, or your hands, work the butter into the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. The small bits of butter distributed throughout will melt as it bakes, giving the topping a crispy and flaky texture. -
Incorporate the Cheese
Stir in the shredded cheese. The cheese adds a savory element that contrasts beautifully with the sweet apples, making this dessert unique and memorable. Cheddar works especially well because its sharpness stands up to the sweetness of the apples and the richness of the butter. -
Assemble and Bake
Sprinkle the crumble mixture evenly over the apple slices. Ensure that the apples are fully covered with the topping for an even, golden crust. -
Bake to Perfection
Place the pan in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 40 minutes or until the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown and crisp. You’ll know it’s ready when the kitchen fills with the sweet, buttery aroma of the baked apples and the topping is perfectly browned. -
Serve
Allow the Cheese Apple Crisp to cool for a few minutes before serving. It can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The combination of warm apples, crisp topping, and a hint of cheese makes for a comforting and delightful dessert.
Tips for Success:
- Apple Variety: Opt for firmer apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji. These varieties hold up well during baking and offer a good balance of sweetness and tartness.
- Cheese Choice: Cheddar is recommended for its sharp flavor, but feel free to experiment with other types of cheese. Gouda or a mild blue cheese could add a fun twist.
- Make it Gluten-Free: For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend.
- Butter Consistency: Make sure the butter is cold when working it into the flour mixture. Cold butter ensures a crumbly, crispy topping.
- Sweetness Adjustments: If you prefer a sweeter dessert, you can increase the amount of Splenda or Sugar Twin slightly. Alternatively, you can use half Splenda and half sugar for a balance of sweetness and fewer calories.
Variations:
- Add Nuts: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans into the crumble mixture for added crunch and flavor.
- Spiced Twist: Try adding a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the cinnamon for a more complex, spiced flavor.
- Fruit Mix: You can also mix in other fruits like pears or cranberries for a more diverse flavor profile. This would add a pop of color and additional tartness, making the dessert even more appealing.
- Make It Mini: Create individual servings by using small ramekins. This is perfect for entertaining and gives each guest their own portion.
Keyword Tags:
- Apple dessert recipe
- Easy apple crisp
- Low-sugar apple crisp
- Fruit dessert
- Baked apple recipe
This Cheese Apple Crisp is a cozy, satisfying dessert that brings together sweet and savory flavors with a delightful texture. Whether you’re enjoying it on a crisp autumn evening or serving it at a dinner party, this dish is bound to become a favorite.
