Imagine a dessert that's not just a treat, but a culinary adventure that breaks all the rules of traditional baking! Our Strawberry Apple Polenta Crisp is a game-changing recipe that proves healthy eating can be absolutely delicious. This show-stopping dessert combines the rustic charm of polenta with the vibrant sweetness of strawberries and apples, creating a mouthwatering masterpiece that's both gluten-free and can easily be made vegan. Whether you're a health-conscious foodie or simply looking for a crowd-pleasing dessert, this recipe is about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Gluten Free
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup polenta
- 4 cups strawberries, sliced
- 2 apples, peeled and diced
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 cup almond flour
- 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with coconut oil to prevent sticking.
- In a medium saucepan, bring 3 cups of water to a boil. Slowly whisk in the polenta, stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Reduce heat to low and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring frequently until the polenta becomes thick and smooth.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine sliced strawberries and diced apples. Add maple syrup, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Gently mix to coat the fruits evenly.
- Pour the cooked polenta into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly to create a smooth base layer.
- Spread the fruit mixture over the polenta base, ensuring even distribution.
- In a separate bowl, mix almond flour with melted coconut oil to create a crumbly topping. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the fruit layer.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the fruits are bubbling.
- Remove from oven and let cool for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the crisp to set and makes it easier to portion.
- Serve warm, optionally topped with vegan vanilla ice cream or coconut whipped cream for extra indulgence.
Tips
- Polenta Perfection: Whisk continuously while cooking to prevent lumps and achieve a smooth, creamy base.
- Fruit Freshness Matters: Use ripe, seasonal strawberries and apples for the most intense flavor.
- Topping Technique: Mix the almond flour and coconut oil thoroughly to create a perfectly crumbly topping.
- Baking Wisdom: Watch the crisp carefully in the last 5-10 minutes of baking to prevent over-browning.
- Cooling is Crucial: Allow the crisp to rest for 10-15 minutes after baking to help it set and make serving easier.
- Vegan Variation: Swap regular toppings with vegan vanilla ice cream or coconut whipped cream for a dairy-free option.
- Make-Ahead Magic: This crisp can be prepared in advance and reheated, making it perfect for meal prep or entertaining.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 0mg
