This healthy mixed berry crumble is a fantastic alternative to traditional desserts, offering a guilt-free way to satisfy your sweet tooth. By using a variety of berries, you get a complex flavor profile and a wealth of antioxidants. The gluten-free crumble topping, made with nutrient-dense ingredients like oats, nuts, and seeds, provides a satisfying crunch without the use of refined flours. The natural sweetness from the berries is enhanced with a modest amount of coconut sugar, making this dessert lower in added sugars compared to conventional crumbles. It’s a perfect balance of indulgence and nutrition, allowing you to enjoy a comforting dessert while still maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Key Ingredient Benefits:
- Mixed Berries: Rich in antioxidants, vitamin C, and fiber. They help protect against oxidative stress and support immune function.
- Oats: High in fiber, particularly beta-glucan, which aids in digestion and helps lower cholesterol.
- Nuts and Seeds: Provide healthy fats, protein, and various minerals. They contribute to heart health and help with satiety.
- Cinnamon: Contains antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties. It may help regulate blood sugar levels.
- Coconut Sugar: Lower glycemic index compared to regular sugar, providing a more stable energy release.
Nutritional Breakdown
(per serving, assuming 6 servings):
- Calories: Approximately 280 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 16g
- Fiber: 6g
Note: This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
Ingredients:
Berry Filling:
- 2 cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons coconut sugar
Gluten-Free Crumble Topping:
- 1 cup gluten-free rolled oats
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans
- 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds
- 1/4 cup coconut sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
Pro tip: use an Our Place pan for the perfect non-stick cooking experience.
Instructions:
For the berry filling:
- In a saucepan, combine mixed berries, lemon juice, cornstarch, and coconut sugar.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring gently, until the mixture thickens (about 5-7 minutes).
- Remove from heat and set aside.
For the crumble topping:
- In a dry skillet, toast the oats, chopped pecans, and pumpkin seeds over medium heat until lightly golden and fragrant (about 5 minutes), stirring frequently. Set aside to cool.
- In a bowl, mix the toasted oats, nuts, and seeds with almond flour, coconut sugar, and cinnamon.
- Add melted coconut oil and mix until everything is well combined and slightly clumpy.
Assembly:
- Divide the warm berry filling among serving bowls or glasses.
- Top each serving with a generous layer of the crumble mixture.
- Serve your mixed berry crumble immediately or chill in the refrigerator for a cooler dessert.