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Recently we had company over two weeks in a row. Both times I asked them to bring a dessert. Both times my two different groups of company brought fruit crisp. Why? Because it’s the perfect simple, healthy dessert that’s easy to toss together and everyone will enjoy. If you’re looking for a sweet and satisfying dish that’s both delicious and nutritious, a whole foods plant-based fruit crisp is a great choice. This dish is made with fresh fruit, whole grains, and healthy fats that aren’t processed, and it’s a perfect way to enjoy the natural sweetness of fruits while also getting plenty of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. In this blog post, we’ll explore the benefits of this fruit crisp and provide some tips for making one yourself.

What is a Whole Foods Plant-Based Fruit Crisp?

A whole foods plant-based fruit crisp is a dessert that’s made with fresh fruit, a topping of whole grains, nuts or seeds, and a small amount of healthy fat. This dessert is often served warm and can be topped with non-dairy whipped cream or a scoop of dairy-free ice cream. For a whole foods plant based ice cream, try blending frozen bananas with a pinch of salt and a dash of vanilla. Yum! Unlike traditional fruit crisps that often include processed sugar and refined flour, a whole foods plant-based fruit crisp is made with nutrient-dense ingredients that promote health and well-being.

Benefits

High in Fiber

This dish is high in fiber, which is essential for maintaining good digestive health. Fiber helps to regulate bowel movements, prevent constipation, and reduce the risk of colon cancer. Fruits and whole grains are especially high in fiber, and a fruit crisp is a delicious way to get more fiber in your diet.

Packed with Vitamins and Minerals

Fresh fruits are loaded with vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin A, potassium, and folate. Whole grains and nuts are also rich in vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin E, magnesium, and zinc. By incorporating these nutrient-dense foods into a fruit crisp, you can increase your intake of essential vitamins and minerals.

Low in Fat

Whole foods plant-based fruit crisps are low in fat, especially saturated fat. By using a small amount of healthy fat, such as coconut milk and almond flour, you can add richness and flavor to the topping without adding excess fat. This is a healthier option compared to traditional fruit crisps, which often contain butter or margarine.

Instructions

Choose Your Fruit

The first step in making a whole foods plant-based fruit crisp is to choose your fruit. For this fruit crisp, I used home canned peaches and frozen blueberries. Some other popular options include apples, berries, and pears. You can use fresh, frozen, or canned fruit, depending on what’s in season or available. When it comes time to add the cornstarch, you may need to adjust the amount you add depending on how much liquid the fruit you choose to use already has. More liquid will need more cornstarch.

Make the Topping

The topping for this fruit crisp is made with whole grains, nuts or seeds, and a small amount of healthy fat. For this recipe I use oats, almond flour, and coconut milk. You can mix and match ingredients to create a topping that suits your taste preferences.

Assemble the Fruit Crisp

To assemble the fruit crisp, simply layer the cooked and thickened fruit in a baking dish and then sprinkle the topping on top. Bake in the oven until the fruit is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.

Serve and Enjoy

Once the fruit crisp is done baking, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Top with your favorite whipped cream or ice cream such as banana ice cream.

Tips for Making a Whole Foods Plant-Based Fruit Crisp

Choose Whole Grains

I use whole grains for this recipe instead of refined grains as whole grains are a better source of fiber and nutrients, and they also have a lower glycemic index, which means they won’t cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels.

Experiment with Different Toppings

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different toppings for your fruit crisp. You can use different types of nuts or seeds, or you can add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavor. Try adding a little bit of coconut sugar or maple syrup to sweeten the topping.

Make Ahead and Freeze

You can make this fruit crisp ahead of time and freeze it for later. To do this, assemble the fruit crisp and bake it as you normally would, but let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly and freezing it. When you’re ready to eat it, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat it in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes.

Conclusion

A whole foods plant-based fruit crisp is a delicious and nutritious dish perfect for breakfast, dinner, or dessert that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. By using fresh fruit, whole grains, and healthy fats, you can create a dessert that’s packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals, and low in fat. Whether you’re following a plant-based diet or simply looking for a healthier dessert option, a whole foods plant-based fruit crisp is sure to please. I hope you love this (not) guilty pleasure!

I love to use this healthy date sugar made from whole dates. I buy mine here from Amazon.