Name: Healthier Strawberry Crisp Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 5 cups fresh strawberries, quartered; 2 tablespoons maple syrup; 2 tablespoons corn starch; 2 teaspoons lemon juice; 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg; 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats; 1/2 cup almond flour (or whole wheat flour); 1/2 cup roughly chopped pecans; 1/4 cup roughly chopped walnuts; 1/2 cup applesauce; 2 tablespoons maple syrup; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

Print Recipe· 4.3 from 13 reviews

There is something incredibly comforting and joyful about a warm, fruity dessert that feels indulgent yet leaves you light and satisfied. This Healthier Strawberry Crisp Recipe perfectly balances sweet, tart strawberries with a crunchy oat and nut topping, all while using wholesome ingredients that don’t sacrifice flavor. It’s a delightful way to enjoy fresh berries in a treat that feels like a little hug in a bowl, making it a favorite for weekday dinners or weekend gatherings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows multiple clear glass bowls of different sizes arranged on a white marbled surface, each filled with various ingredients. At the top left is a large bowl filled with fresh, chopped red strawberries. Surrounding it are smaller bowls containing light beige almond flour, golden brown chopped walnuts, pale yellow applesauce, white powdery flour or baking mix in a white bowl, dark brown and white spices mixed, light brown ground flaxseed, clear liquid, and light golden maple syrup in a small glass pitcher. A larger bowl of light beige rolled oats and another bowl of chopped pecans are placed near the bottom, all with visible texture in the clear glass. The overall layout is neat and clean, with each ingredient clearly visible. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe keeps things wonderfully simple with ingredients that work together beautifully to create layers of texture and flavor. Every component, from the juicy strawberries to the nutty topping, plays a star role in making this crisp shine while keeping it wholesome.

Fresh strawberries (5 cups, quartered): The fresh fruit base, providing natural sweetness and vibrant color.
Maple syrup (2 tablespoons + 2 tablespoons): Adds gentle sweetness without processed sugar, enhancing the fruit and topping.
Corn starch (2 tablespoons): Thickens the strawberry juices to keep the crisp from becoming too runny.
Lemon juice (2 teaspoons): Brightens the flavors and balances sweetness with a touch of acidity.
Nutmeg (1/2 teaspoon): Adds warm spice that complements the strawberries beautifully.
Old-fashioned rolled oats (1 cup): Provides a hearty, chewy texture in the topping that’s simply irresistible.
Almond flour (1/2 cup) or whole wheat flour: Gives a nutty, wholesome element with a tender crumb.
Chopped pecans (1/2 cup): Adds crunch and a deeper nutty flavor to the crisp topping.
Chopped walnuts (1/4 cup): Offers textural contrast and richness.
Applesauce (1/2 cup): Replaces butter or oils, lending moisture and a subtle sweetness for a healthier twist.
Cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Infuses warmth and a cozy aroma throughout the crisp.
Kosher salt (1/4 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness perfectly.

How to Make Healthier Strawberry Crisp Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prep the Strawberry Filling

Begin by heating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, setting the stage for that golden, bubbly crisp topping. In a large bowl, gently toss the quartered strawberries with maple syrup, corn starch, lemon juice, and nutmeg. This combination creates a luscious fruit filling that will thicken as it bakes, bursting with fresh, tangy sweetness.

Step 2: Arrange the Strawberry Mixture

Pour all the strawberry goodness into an 8×8 square pan or a 9-inch pie plate. Spreading it evenly ensures every spoonful will have that perfect balance of juicy fruit and crunchy topping, setting the foundation for a satisfying dessert experience.

Step 3: Mix the Crisp Topping

In a new bowl, combine the rolled oats, almond flour, chopped pecans, and chopped walnuts. Stir these dry ingredients together to evenly distribute their wonderful textures and flavors. This mixture is the heart of the topping that brings an irresistible nutty crunch.

Step 4: Add Moisture and Spice to the Topping

Add the applesauce, maple syrup, cinnamon, and kosher salt to your oat and nut blend. Stir well until everything is incorporated. The applesauce replaces traditional fats, keeping this crisp on the healthier side without losing any moist, tender quality.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Spoon the oat topping evenly over the layered strawberries, making sure every juicy portion has a generous cover. Bake your creation for 45 to 50 minutes until the top turns golden brown and fragrant, signaling that it’s ready to come out and cool.

Step 6: Cool Before Serving

Let the crisp rest for 10 to 15 minutes after baking. This cooling time allows the filling to thicken up a bit more, making every serving clean and delicious, with perfectly balanced textures.

How to Serve Healthier Strawberry Crisp Recipe

A white scalloped ceramic dish filled with one thick layer of finely chopped bright red strawberries, showing a mix of juicy red and lighter pinkish pieces. The dish sits on a white marble textured surface, and the strawberries cover the dish evenly with a moist, fresh look. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate your Healthier Strawberry Crisp Recipe, consider a dollop of Greek yogurt or a small scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. The creamy coldness contrasts so beautifully with the warm fruit and oat topping. Fresh mint leaves or a light dusting of cinnamon can also add a refreshing or fragrant final touch that makes it extra special.

Side Dishes

This crisp pairs wonderfully with simple sides like a fresh green salad for a spring meal, or a cup of chamomile or green tea to complement its natural sweetness. Serving it after a light brunch or dinner offers a feel-good finish without weighing you down.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming twist, try baking the strawberry crisp in individual ramekins for personalized servings. You can also layer it with parfait glasses, alternating crisp and strawberry layers topped with yogurt and sliced almonds for a delightful presentation that’s as pretty as it is tasty.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, cover any leftover strawberry crisp with plastic wrap or airtight containers and store in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, making it a handy dessert to enjoy beyond the initial serving.

Freezing

You can freeze the dessert before or after baking. For unbaked frozen crisp, cover tightly with foil and plastic wrap, then bake from frozen, adding around 15 extra minutes to baking time. After baking, allow it to cool fully before wrapping and freezing. Frozen crisp can last up to 2 months.

Reheating

Reheat leftover crisp in a preheated oven at 325 degrees Fahrenheit for about 15 minutes to bring back that crisp topping texture. Microwaving works in a pinch but may soften the topping slightly. Serve warm for the best experience.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries for this recipe?

Yes! Frozen strawberries can work well, but be sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture making the crisp too soggy. You might also want to reduce the maple syrup slightly if your berries are very sweet.

What can I substitute for almond flour?

Whole wheat flour is a great alternative if you want a similar texture and a bit more heartiness. Oat flour can also be used, although it may slightly change the crunch of the topping.

Is applesauce the only option for moisture in the topping?

Applesauce is a healthier fat substitute here, but mashed banana or pureed pumpkin could also be used to add moisture and natural sweetness, giving your crisp different seasonal twists.

How can I make this recipe vegan?

This recipe is already vegan-friendly by using applesauce instead of butter and maple syrup for sweetness. Just double-check that your ingredients, like nuts and flours, haven’t been processed with animal products to keep it completely plant-based.

Can I add other fruits to this crisp?

Absolutely! Mixing in blueberries, raspberries, or even diced peaches can add extra flavor and freshness. Just keep the total quantity of fruit the same to maintain the right balance and texture in your Healthier Strawberry Crisp Recipe.

Final Thoughts

This Healthier Strawberry Crisp Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a treat without the guilt, blending fresh fruit, wholesome ingredients, and comforting spices into something truly special. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or an impromptu gathering, it’s sure to bring smiles and a warm sense of satisfaction. I encourage you to give it a try and see how easy and delightful eating a healthier dessert can be.