This time of year there’s nothing better than the smell of something warm and delicious baking in my oven. This Apple Pear Cranberry Crisp is exactly the kind of cozy winter dessert that feels like a warm hug.
It’s packed with nutrient-rich ingredients that make it a nourishing choice, too! Let’s dive into the benefits of these ingredient superstars.
Apples: One of my favorite fruits to bake with, especially in the winter when their natural sweetness shines. They’re high in antioxidants and soluble fibre, which supports digestion and promotes a healthy gut. Plus, their vitamin C content helps boost your immune system—perfect for keeping those winter colds at bay.
Pears: Add a juicy, delicate flavour that pairs beautifully with apples. Like apples, they’re loaded with fibre, which helps keep you full and satisfied. Pears also contain vitamin K, which supports bone health, and copper, a trace mineral essential for energy production and brain health.
Cranberries: These tart little gems are packed with antioxidants and phytonutrients that support your immune system and overall health. Cranberries are especially known for their role in promoting urinary tract health, thanks to their unique plant compounds that help prevent bacteria from sticking to the urinary tract lining. Plus, their tangy flavor adds a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the apples and pears.
Oats: The oat topping in this crisp brings more than just a satisfying crunch. Oats are an excellent source of beta-glucan, a type of soluble fibre that helps lower cholesterol levels and supports heart health. They’re also a great source of manganese, which is important for bone health and energy production.
Hemp Hearts: I’ve snuck in a secret superfood here, Hemp Hearts! These little seeds are packed with plant-based protein, healthy omega-3 and omega-6 fats, and fibre. They add a subtle nutty flavour and a nutritional boost that makes this dessert both indulgent and nourishing.
Cinnamon: Not just a warming spice; it’s also a powerhouse of antioxidants. It’s known for its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to help regulate blood sugar levels, making it a great addition to this crisp.
Here's the full recipe!
Desserts
Apple Pear Cranberry Crisp
Print
Bottom
- 3 apples, chopped
- 3 pears, chopped
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- Optional: 2–3 tbsp coconut sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- Optional: 2 tbsp water or juice
Top
- 2 cups oats
- 1/2 cup Manitoba Harvest hemp hearts
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 3 tbsp dark maple syrup
- 1/3 cup melted coconut oil (or butter!)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Toss apples, pears, and cranberries in a 9x10 baking dish (or smaller for a thicker crisp). Sprinkle with coconut sugar (if using) and cinnamon.
- In a bowl, mix oats, hemp hearts, cinnamon, maple syrup, and melted coconut oil. Spread over the fruit layer.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes until fruit is fork-tender.
- Serve warm with creamy yogurt or vanilla ice cream for the ultimate comfort!
Whether you're sharing it with family and friends or treating yourself to a little self-care moment, this recipe is guaranteed to hit the spot. I made it a few times over the holidays and it was always gobbled up in a couple of days. It's sure to be a huge hit in your home too!
Warmest wishes!
Joy
