Howe to Health

No Refined Sugar | Gluten-free | Healthy Dessert

If you’re like me, you might have a pound (or three) of untouched apples in the fridge after a trip to the orchards. This warm and comforting apple crumble cake is the perfect fall dessert. It’s made with clean and local ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen. Check out my deep dive into each ingredient below.

What you’ll need

• 3 apples, chopped and optional peeled
• 2 eggs
• 1/2 cup honey
• 3 tbsp plain whole milk greek yogurt
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups almond flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
• Pinch of salt
• Sprinkle of cinnamon
• 1 tbs coconut oil (to grease pan)

Instructions

1. Prepare your baking dish and apples. Grease an 8 inch round cake pan with coconut oil, or neutral oil of choice. Chop apples into small chunks, option to peel before chopping.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and honey until well combined.
3. Add greek yogurt and vanilla extract. Whisk for 1 minute, or until smooth.
4. In a smaller bowl, combine the almond flour, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice and salt.
5. Gently fold the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients.
6. Stir in the chopped apples until just combined. Be careful not to over mix.
7. Immediately pour batter into greased 8 inch pan. Tip: Bake the batter as quickly as possible before the baking powder activates.
8. Sprinkle cinnamon on top of the cake. Option to layer more sliced apples on top for presentation.
9. Bake at 350F or 180C for 30-35 minutes. Allow the cake to rest for 10-15 minutes.
10. Leave the cake in the pan and scoop to serve. Top with greek yogurt as a healthy pairing, or vanilla ice cream for a more indulgent dessert. Enjoy!

The ‘Why’ Behind The Ingredients

Apples

High in fiber and antioxidants, apples have a long standing reputation as your ticket out of a doctor visit. There is some truth to that. This hydrating, fibrous fruit boosts immunity and can reduce inflammation. Head to your local orchard during autumn to pick the freshest bunch. Read more on why this matters here.

Honey

While honey is a sweetener that should be used in moderation, it does offer a unique set of health benefits. This natural sugar has powerful antibacterial and anti-fungal properties. It’s been shown to improve brain and gut health, supporting your digestive track function. Local honey may be able to relieve some seasonal allergy symptoms. I typically buy local honey at the farmers market; however, I prefer the fruit and honey stands you find on the side of the road in East County, San Diego.

Greek Yogurt

Greek yogurt is an excellent protein source that keeps you full and satisfied for longer. It supports bone health as its high in vitamin D and calcium. Opt for plain greek yogurt to avoid unnecessary amounts of added sugar that are common in the ‘fruit on the bottom’ variations. Buy organic, plain greek yogurt and add your own mix-ins. I like this one from Whole Foods.

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