I make this High Protein Apple Crumble when I want something warm, cozy, and satisfying without spending much time in the kitchen. It gives me tender cinnamon apples under a crisp oat topping, and I love that it feels like a classic comfort dessert while adding a nice boost of protein.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it comes together with simple ingredients and only makes one serving, which is perfect when I want a quick dessert without leftovers. I also like how the soft baked apples pair with the crunchy crumble topping. The protein powder adds extra staying power, so this treat feels a little more balanced than a traditional crumble. Since it bakes quickly, I can enjoy it on busy days, cozy evenings, or whenever I want a healthier dessert option.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 small apple, peeled, cored, and thinly diced
1 tsp granulated sweetener
1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
3 tbsp rolled oats
3 tbsp vanilla protein powder
1 to 2 tsp granulated sweetener
1/3 tsp ground cinnamon
A pinch of salt
1 tsp coconut oil or melted butter
1 tsp milk, if needed
Directions
I start by preheating the oven to 350°F (180°C) and lightly greasing a small ramekin or baking dish with cooking spray or oil.
Next, I place the diced apple in a small bowl and mix it with 1 teaspoon of sweetener and 1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon. Once everything is coated well, I transfer the apple mixture to the bottom of the prepared ramekin.
In another bowl, I combine the rolled oats, vanilla protein powder, extra sweetener, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Then I add the melted coconut oil or butter and stir until the mixture becomes crumbly. If it seems too dry, I add a small splash of milk to help bring it together.
After that, I sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the apples. I bake it for 15 to 20 minutes, until the topping turns lightly golden and the apples become tender.
I like serving it warm straight from the ramekin. Sometimes I add a spoonful of yogurt on top for a creamy finish.
Servings and timing
I make this recipe as a single-serve dessert, which is perfect when I want just enough for one.
Servings: 1 serving
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Calories: 318 kcal
Variations
I like how easy it is to change this crumble depending on what I have at home. Sometimes I swap the vanilla protein powder for cinnamon or unflavored protein powder for a slightly different taste. I also like adding chopped walnuts or pecans to the topping when I want more crunch. For extra flavor, I sometimes mix a few berries into the apples before baking. If I need a gluten-free version, I simply use certified gluten-free oats. When I want a richer dessert, I use melted butter instead of coconut oil.
Storage/Reheating
I think this crumble tastes best fresh and warm, but I can still store it if needed. I cover the ramekin and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, I warm it in the microwave for about 30 to 60 seconds, or I place it back in the oven for a few minutes until heated through. If I want the topping to stay a bit crisp, I prefer reheating it in the oven instead of the microwave.
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FAQs
Can I make this recipe without protein powder?
I can, but the texture will change a bit. If I leave out the protein powder, I usually replace it with a little more oats or a small amount of flour, though the crumble will no longer be as high in protein.
What type of apple works best?
I like using a firm apple that holds its shape while baking. Varieties like Honeycrisp, Gala, or Fuji work well because they stay tender without turning mushy too quickly.
Can I make this in the microwave instead of the oven?
I can make a softer version in the microwave, but I get the best crumble texture from the oven. The oven helps the topping turn golden and crisp, which gives the dessert its classic feel.
How do I know when it is done baking?
I look for a lightly golden topping and apples that feel tender when pierced with a fork. That usually means the crumble is ready to come out of the oven.
Can I double the recipe?
I definitely can double it if I want to make two servings or one larger portion. I just use a slightly larger baking dish and keep an eye on the baking time, since it may need a few extra minutes.
Conclusion
I love making this High Protein Apple Crumble because it is simple, comforting, and full of cozy flavor. It gives me the sweetness and texture of a classic apple dessert, but in a lighter and more protein-friendly form. Whenever I want a quick homemade treat that feels both wholesome and satisfying, this is one of my favorite recipes to bake.
📖 Recipe:
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High Protein Apple Crumble
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A warm single-serve apple crumble with tender cinnamon apples and a crisp oat topping boosted with vanilla protein powder. It is a quick, cozy dessert that feels indulgent while offering extra protein.
Ingredients
1 small apple, peeled, cored, and thinly diced
1 tsp granulated sweetener
1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
3 tbsp rolled oats
3 tbsp vanilla protein powder
1 to 2 tsp granulated sweetener
1/3 tsp ground cinnamon
A pinch of salt
1 tsp coconut oil or melted butter
1 tsp milk, if needed
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and lightly grease a small ramekin or baking dish with cooking spray or oil.
- In a small bowl, mix the diced apple with 1 teaspoon of sweetener and 1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon until well coated.
- Transfer the apple mixture to the bottom of the prepared ramekin.
- In another bowl, combine the rolled oats, vanilla protein powder, additional sweetener, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt.
- Add the melted coconut oil or butter and stir until the mixture becomes crumbly. If the mixture seems too dry, add a small splash of milk to help it come together.
- Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the apples.
- Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, until the topping is lightly golden and the apples are tender.
- Serve warm directly from the ramekin. Optionally top with a spoonful of yogurt.
Notes
Swap vanilla protein powder for cinnamon or unflavored protein powder for a slightly different flavor.
Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the topping for extra crunch.
Mix a handful of berries with the apples for added sweetness and variety.
Use certified gluten-free oats if a gluten-free option is needed.
Melted butter can replace coconut oil for a richer flavor.
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheat in the microwave for 30–60 seconds or warm in the oven for a crisp topping.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ramekin
- Calories: 318 kcal
- Sugar: 18 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 9 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 6 g
- Protein: 22 g
- Cholesterol: 5 mg
