Deconstructed Apple Crisp Parfait
This innovative twist on the classic apple crisp transforms a typically complex, time-consuming baked dessert into an elegant, approachable parfait that anyone can master. By deconstructing the traditional elements of apple crisp into beautiful, distinct layers, we've created a Deconstructed Apple Crisp Parfait that delivers all the beloved flavors without the fuss of traditional baking.
Equipment
- Skillet
- Baking Sheet
- Parchment Paper
- Clear Serving Glasses or Mason Jars
Ingredients
Spiced Apple Layer
- 4 medium Honeycrisp apples about 2 pounds, peeled and diced
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 3 tablespoons butter or coconut oil for dairy-free alternative
- 1/4 cup brown sugar coconut sugar works as a less refined option
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon cardamom optional
- 1 pinch salt
Crisp Topping
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats not instant
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour or almond flour for gluten-free option
- 1/2 cup brown sugar packed
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 6 tablespoons cold butter cubed (or solid coconut oil)
Assembly
- 2 cups vanilla Greek yogurt or coconut yogurt for dairy-free version
- maple syrup or honey for drizzling, optional
- fresh mint leaves for garnish, optional
Instructions
- Begin by peeling, coring, and dicing your apples into uniform ½-inch cubes. Toss them immediately with lemon juice in a large bowl to prevent browning.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter until it begins to foam slightly. Add the apples and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Sprinkle in the brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cardamom (if using), and salt. Continue cooking for 7-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender but still maintain their shape.
- While the apples cook, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the oats, flour, brown sugar, chopped nuts, cinnamon, and salt.
- Using your fingertips or a pastry cutter, work the cold butter into the dry ingredients until you have a crumbly mixture with pea-sized butter pieces throughout.
- Spread the topping mixture evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 15-18 minutes, stirring halfway through, until golden brown and fragrant. Allow it to cool completely on the baking sheet.
- In clear serving glasses or mason jars, create beautiful layers starting with 2-3 tablespoons of the cooled apple mixture.
- Follow with a generous layer of vanilla Greek yogurt (about 2 tablespoons). Add a sprinkle of the crisp topping (about 1-2 tablespoons).
- Repeat the layers until you reach the top of your glass, finishing with a final sprinkle of crisp topping.
- For an extra touch of elegance, drizzle with a small amount of maple syrup or honey and garnish with a fresh mint leaf.
Notes
Store the apple mixture and crisp topping separately in airtight containers. The apple mixture will keep for up to 5 days refrigerated, while the crisp topping stays fresh for 1 week at room temperature.
For a healthier version, reduce the sugar by half in both components and add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to enhance sweetness.
This parfait contains 35% less calories than traditional apple crisp with ice cream, which typically exceeds 700 calories per serving.
Nutrition
Calories: 485kcalCarbohydrates: 65gProtein: 8gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 320mgPotassium: 350mgFiber: 6gSugar: 42gVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 12mgIron: 10mg
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