Introducing the sweetest sensation of the season: a refreshing treat that’s sure to become your go-to summer indulgence. This simple recipe is a nutritious option, with reduced sugar content and boasting an impressive 13 grams of protein per serving.
As a self-proclaimed enthusiast of fruit-based desserts, I have a soft spot for fruit crisps and crumbles, particularly during the sun-kissed days of summer when the warmth heightens their natural sweetness. Peaches and blueberries are staples in my kitchen, with my go-to peach crisp and blueberry crumble recipes always on rotation – but lately, I’ve been yearning for a healthier take that still satisfies my cravings. Enter: this healthy strawberry crisp.
Why do you have to give this incredible product a shot?
Here’s a revised version: This strawberry crisp embodies the quintessential crisp experience: luscious fruit filling and a richly buttery oat topping, reimagined in a delightfully lighter guise. This dessert is distinguished by its reduced sugar content, achieved through natural sweetening, and further enhanced by the incorporation of vanilla protein powder into the crumble, which also boosts the overall protein level. As I savor the refreshing flavor, I’m thrilled to find a sweet treat now infused with a nutritious spin that’s become my ultimate summer indulgence.
This classic dessert is a surefire hit at any summer gathering, whether it’s a casual barbecue or backyard cookout, and its make-ahead convenience ensures you can enjoy it all week long with minimal fuss. Store it in the fridge for convenience, and enjoy a satisfying serving whenever a sweet tooth arises – this treat remains delectable both chilled and warmed to perfection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- The ultimate headliner: the star of the show! Sweetness bursts forth from each plump strawberry, its juicy flavor a true delight. Ensure that you halve and quarter the ingredients for even baking results.
- This subtle addition – helps thicken the strawberry filling, ensuring it’s neither too thin nor too viscous. Arrowroot is an excellent grain-free alternative.
- enhances the overall flavor profile by introducing a welcome burst of brightness that skillfully counterbalances the natural sweetness of the berries.
- Our signature crisp topping begins with a solid foundation. Ensure you procure certified gluten-free oats if necessary.
- With an added boost of protein and a satisfying crunch in each delicious bite. You can substitute these nut options to suit your taste preferences. Make certain to choose raw and unsalted nuts for your topping to avoid an overpowering saltiness.
- enhances the flavor with a hint of sweetness while also providing a significant protein kick. Feel free to substitute with your preferred protein powder brand. Try our innovative Equip now and enjoy an exclusive offer: apply code at checkout to receive 20% off your first purchase or 35% off a recurring subscription!
- Crafts a tender and rich topping that also happens to be gluten-free, achieving a remarkable balance of flavors and textures.
- Additionally, it also infuses a touch of moisture into the ingredients, allowing them to crispen up beautifully. While I enjoy using softened butter, coconut oil is also a viable alternative.
- naturally enhances the sweetness of the topping and promotes a perfectly golden-brown finish when baked in the oven.
Easy Recipe Swaps
- To accommodate a nut-free request, substitute the almond flour with oat flour or all-purpose flour and supplement the mixture with additional rolled oats to compensate for the absence of nuts.
- Go for it! This versatile recipe accommodates a wide range of fruits, including peaches, apples, blueberries, and cherries, allowing you to mix and match your favorite varieties.
How to Make Strawberry Crisp
Combining fresh, chopped strawberries with a mixture of arrowroot, lemon juice, and vanilla extract in a large mixing bowl or directly into the prepared baking dish, carefully tossing until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
A harmonious blend of textures and flavors: In a separate bowl, combine oats, toasted nuts, whey protein powder, finely ground almond flour, softened butter or melted coconut oil, pure maple syrup, warm cinnamon, and a pinch of flaky sea salt.
Arrange fresh strawberries evenly in the prepared baking dish. Carefully spoon the topping over the strawberries, ensuring a smooth coverage as you gently press it into place.
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the fruit is tender and the streusel topping is a golden brown. Allow the dessert to set at room temperature before serving, either on its own or accompanied by a scoop of your preferred ice cream, whipped coconut cream, or tangy Greek yogurt.
Brittany’s Recipe Tips!
To ensure a flawless strawberry crisp experience, consider these expertly curated pointers.
- When using sweet and flavorful berries in a crisp recipe, you can expect an even greater culinary experience due to their enhanced natural sweetness. Even if they’re slightly tart, you can always balance the flavor with an additional drizzle of pure maple syrup.
- Adding arrowroot or cornstarch enables the filling to thicken, preventing it from becoming overly runny. Without careful preparation, you’ll inadvertently create a saucy mess rather than achieving the desired crispy texture.
- This allows the filling to thicken, making scooping a much simpler process.
- This strawberry crisp strikes a perfect balance of sweetness, serving as a delightful dessert option while also boasting sufficient protein and fiber to make it a satisfying breakfast choice. Savoring a nutritious breakfast, I delight in preparing a batch of this wholesome treat in advance, accompanied by a refreshing scoop of Greek yogurt or creamy cottage cheese, setting me up for a satisfying morning start. The unconventional fusion of warm breakfast comfort with sweet indulgence – a match made in culinary heaven, and I’m absolutely thrilled!
How to Store Leftovers
This crispy treat is surprisingly robust, retaining its deliciousness even when enjoyed the day after.
Once cooled, seal the baking dish with plastic wrap or transfer the baked good to an airtight container for storage. Store in airtight containers at refrigerator temperature for up to 4-5 days.
Reheating is easily achieved by warming the dish in a preheated oven set to 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or by microwaving individual servings on high for 30-60 seconds.
You can also freeze it! Allow the item to reach room temperature before storing it in an airtight, freezer-safe container. Store in the refrigerator overnight to thaw, then reheat as needed.
Topping Ideas
This crunchy snack is utterly delightful on its own, yet elevating it with a rich and velvety topping sends it soaring to new heights.
- For a protein-packed breakfast or on-the-go snack, consider this convenient and nutritious option. Savoring its warmth, I delight in pairing it with a refreshing dollop of chilled yogurt or creamy cottage cheese, the textures and temperatures harmonizing in perfect union.
- – For dessert vibes! Indulge in our unique frozen treats: savor the creamy texture of banana ice cream or experience the tangy delight of cottage cheese ice cream – both packed with an extra boost of protein!
- Warm almond or cashew butter imbues with a rich and indulgent finish.
- A delicious dairy-free alternative that adds an exciting twist.
Can I Use Frozen Strawberries?
Yes! Frozen strawberries prove to be a convenient and effective ingredient – no prior thawing required. Combine the mixture with the arrowroot, lemon juice, and vanilla extract, followed by the addition of the specified topping before baking. Frozen berries may yield a slightly moister texture in your crisp, as they naturally release more juice when thawed. To intensify the filling’s consistency, consider augmenting the recipe by adding an additional 1/2 teaspoon of arrowroot or cornstarch?
When using whole frozen strawberries, slicing them while still slightly frozen facilitates even baking and ensures a seamless blend with the filling. Frozen berries, whether halved or pre-sliced, are typically ready to use straight from the freezer, eliminating the need for additional preparation steps.
What Makes This High Protein?
While traditional fruit crisps may lack in protein, this innovative take adds a significant boost courtesy of vanilla protein powder, crunchy chopped almonds, and nutty almond flour. With its harmonious blend of complex carbohydrates, nutritious fats, and substantial protein, this indulgent treat offers an unparalleled sense of satisfaction and fullness that surpasses the typical dessert experience.
