Mediterranean Christmas Cinnamon Apple Crisp With Maple Pecan Oat Topping
This Mediterranean Christmas cinnamon apple crisp is a festive twist on a classic dessert. Sweet, tender apples are layered with warm cinnamon and nutmeg, then topped with a crunchy oat and pecan topping drizzled with maple syrup. It’s lightly sweetened, so the fruit shines, and the oat topping adds texture and a nutty flavor that complements the Mediterranean-style spices like cinnamon, allspice, and a hint of citrus zest. Perfect for holiday dinners or cozy winter evenings, it’s simple to make yet looks elegant on the table. Serve it warm with Greek yogurt, whipped cream, or vanilla ice cream for a comforting seasonal treat. The recipe is flexible, so you can adjust spices, nuts, and sweetness to taste. This apple crisp brings warmth, crunch, and a hint of Mediterranean magic to your festive meals.
Prep: 20 minutes
Cook: 40–45 minutes
Total: 60–65 minutes
Ingredients
For the apple filling
6 medium apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix), peeled, cored, and sliced
2 tbsp lemon juice
2 tbsp maple syrup
1 tsp ground cinnamon
½ tsp ground nutmeg
½ tsp ground allspice
¼ tsp salt
Zest of 1 orange
1 tsp vanilla extract
For the oat pecan topping
1 cup rolled oats
½ cup pecans, roughly chopped
¼ cup almond flour
3 tbsp maple syrup
3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted (or coconut oil)
1 tsp cinnamon
Pinch of salt
1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly.
In a large bowl, combine apple slices with lemon juice, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, salt, orange zest, and vanilla extract. Toss gently to coat evenly.
Transfer the apple mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
In a separate bowl, mix the rolled oats, chopped pecans, almond flour, cinnamon, and salt.
Stir in melted butter (or coconut oil), maple syrup, and vanilla until the mixture is crumbly but sticks together slightly.
Sprinkle the oat-pecan topping evenly over the apples.
Lightly press down on the topping so it adheres but stays crumbly.
Bake for 40–45 minutes, until apples are bubbling and the topping is golden brown.
Remove from the oven and let cool for 5–10 minutes.
Serve warm with Greek yogurt, whipped cream, or vanilla ice cream. Optionally, drizzle extra maple syrup on top.
Tips
Use a mix of tart and sweet apples for balanced flavor and texture.
Peel apples if you want a softer texture; leave skins on for extra color and fiber.
Toss apples gently to prevent them from breaking apart.
Squeeze lemon juice over apples to prevent browning.
Toast the pecans lightly for extra depth in flavor before mixing with oats.
Use cold butter for a slightly crunchier topping.
Don’t overpack the topping; a loose layer crisps better.
Let the crisp rest for a few minutes after baking to thicken the juices.
Add a pinch of cardamom or ginger for extra Mediterranean warmth.
Store leftovers in the fridge and reheat gently in the oven to maintain crispiness.
Variations
Mixed Fruit: Add pears or pomegranate seeds for extra holiday flavor.
Nut Swap: Replace pecans with walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts.
Coconut Crunch: Add shredded coconut to the oat topping.
Maple-Orange: Increase orange zest and drizzle a bit of orange-infused maple syrup.
Spice Boost: Add cloves, ginger, or cardamom to the apple filling.
Gluten-Free: Use certified gluten-free oats and almond flour.
Vegan Option: Replace butter with coconut oil and ensure maple syrup is used.
Cheesy Twist: Add a few crumbles of mascarpone or ricotta on top after baking.
Crispy Crumble: Mix half oat topping with crushed whole-grain biscuits for extra crunch.
Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle homemade or store-bought caramel over the baked crisp before serving.
Q&A
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble the crisp and refrigerate for up to a day before baking.
Can I use frozen apples?
Yes, but thaw and drain excess liquid to prevent sogginess.
Can I use honey instead of maple syrup?
Yes, but reduce slightly since honey is sweeter.
Do I have to peel the apples?
No. Skins add texture and color, but peeling gives a softer filling.
Can I make it nut-free?
Yes, omit pecans and increase oats or add seeds like pumpkin or sunflower.
How do I store leftovers?
Cover and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best texture.
Can I freeze this dessert?
Yes, freeze before or after baking, but thaw fully and reheat in the oven.
Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, but topping will be slightly softer.
How do I keep the topping extra crunchy?
Bake uncovered and don’t stir until serving.
What can I serve alongside?
Vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, Greek yogurt, or a dollop of mascarpone.
Nutrition
(per serving, 1 of 8)
Calories: 260
Protein: 3 g
Carbs: 35 g
Fat: 12 g
Fiber: 4 g
Sugar: 16 g
Sodium: 50 mg
Conclusion
This Mediterranean Christmas cinnamon apple crisp with maple pecan oat topping is a cozy, festive dessert that balances sweet apples, warm spices, and crunchy topping. The oat and pecan mixture adds texture and a nutty flavor, while maple syrup and citrus zest elevate the classic apple crisp to a holiday-worthy dish. It’s flexible, easy to make ahead, and pairs beautifully with yogurt, ice cream, or cream. The recipe’s bright Mediterranean flavors—citrus, spices, nuts—bring warmth and sophistication, making it suitable for both casual weeknights and holiday dinners. With tender fruit, a crisp topping, and optional festive twists like coconut, caramel, or extra spices, it’s a dessert that feels special while remaining approachable. Each bite delivers a balance of sweet, tart, crunchy, and soft textures, creating a comforting, festive, and crowd-pleasing experience that embodies the holiday spirit.