Why You’ll Love Healthy Plum Crisp Recipe
This plum crisp is easy to prepare and requires just a handful of wholesome pantry staples.
The combination of sweet-tart plums and a crunchy oat topping creates the perfect balance of flavors and textures.
It’s naturally sweetened with maple syrup and made without refined sugar.
The recipe is easily adaptable for gluten-free and vegan diets.
It makes a delicious dessert, breakfast, or snack, especially when served warm.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
6 plums
¼ cup maple syrup
¼ teaspoon cinnamon
2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional)
1 cup oats (rolled or quick; use certified gluten-free if needed)
½ cup almond flour
½ cup sliced almonds
¼ cup maple syrup
¼ cup melted vegan butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon cinnamon
¼ teaspoon ground ginger
¼ teaspoon salt
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Slice the plums, leaving the skin on, and place them in a 9-inch pie dish or a similar-sized baking dish.
Toss the plums with ¼ cup maple syrup, ¼ teaspoon cinnamon, and the cornstarch if using. Spread the mixture evenly in the dish.
In a mixing bowl, combine the oats, almond flour, sliced almonds, maple syrup, melted vegan butter, vanilla extract, cinnamon, ground ginger, and salt.
Stir until the mixture becomes crumbly and well combined.
Sprinkle the crisp topping evenly over the plum filling.
Bake for about 30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the plum filling is bubbling around the edges.
If the topping browns too quickly, loosely cover the dish with aluminum foil and continue baking until the plums are tender.
Allow the crisp to cool slightly before serving.
Serve warm on its own or topped with vegan vanilla ice cream if desired.
Servings and timing
Servings: 8
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Variations
Substitute peaches, nectarines, apricots, or mixed berries for some or all of the plums.
Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the topping for extra crunch.
Mix a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom into the topping for additional warmth and spice.
Use honey instead of maple syrup if a vegan version is not required.
Add a tablespoon of orange zest to the filling for a bright citrus flavor.
For a heartier topping, use old-fashioned rolled oats instead of quick oats.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover plum crisp covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, place individual servings in the microwave for 20 to 30 seconds or until warmed through.
For a crispier topping, reheat in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes.
The crisp can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQs
Do I need to peel the plums?
No. The plum skins soften during baking and add color, flavor, and nutrients to the dessert.
What does the cornstarch do?
Cornstarch helps thicken the fruit juices, creating a less watery filling.
Can I leave out the cornstarch?
Yes. The crisp will still be delicious, though the filling may be slightly juicier.
What type of plums work best?
Most ripe plums work well, including red, black, or yellow varieties.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes. Simply use certified gluten-free oats.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble the crisp a few hours ahead and refrigerate until ready to bake.
What can I serve with plum crisp?
It pairs wonderfully with vegan vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, yogurt, or a drizzle of almond butter.
Can I use frozen plums?
Yes. Thaw and drain excess liquid before using them in the recipe.
How do I know when the crisp is done?
The topping should be golden brown and the fruit filling should be bubbling around the edges.
Is this dessert healthy?
Compared to many traditional crisps, this version contains wholesome ingredients, natural sweeteners, and healthy fats from almonds, making it a lighter dessert option.
Conclusion
Healthy Plum Crisp is a simple and satisfying dessert that showcases the natural sweetness of fresh plums beneath a crunchy oat and almond topping. With its wholesome ingredients, easy preparation, and comforting flavor, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make throughout plum season and beyond.
