Anti-Aging, Low GI Apple and Blackberry Crumble with Cinnamon

As we embrace the golden hues and cozy feel of autumn, it’s the perfect time to treat yourself to a dessert that not only warms you up but also supports your health goals. This Anti-Aging, Low GI Apple and Blackberry Crumble with Cinnamon is a guilt-free indulgence that combines seasonal fruits with powerful anti-aging ingredients. Packed with antioxidants, healthy fats, and low-GI sweeteners, this crumble nourishes your body while giving you that sweet autumnal comfort we all crave.

Why You’ll Love It:

This dessert ticks all the boxes—it’s low on the glycemic index, high in fiber, rich in antioxidants, and has a warm cinnamon aroma that makes it feel like the ultimate comfort food. Best of all, it supports your skin health and muscle recovery, making it a perfect fit for anyone focused on wellness, fitness, and anti-aging.

Ingredients:

For the Filling:

• 4 large apples (choose a lower GI variety such as Bramley or Granny Smith), peeled, cored, and sliced

• 200g fresh blackberries (packed with antioxidants to fight oxidative stress)

• 1.5 tablespoons ground cinnamon (boosts skin health, stabilizes blood sugar, and adds cozy warmth)

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, but adds a rich depth of flavor)

• 1 tablespoon xylitol or stevia (natural low-GI sweetener to avoid blood sugar spikes)

For the Crumble Topping:

• 100g ground almonds (great source of healthy fats that promote glowing skin)

• 50g rolled oats (adds fiber for balanced blood sugar and gut health)

• 75g almond flour (low-carb, protein-rich, and helps with muscle recovery and satiety)

• 2 tablespoons coconut oil or grass-fed butter (loaded with healthy fats for skin health and sustained energy)

• 1 tablespoon chia seeds or flaxseeds (rich in omega-3s, perfect for reducing inflammation and supporting skin hydration)

• 1-2 tablespoons xylitol or stevia (to keep things naturally sweet)

• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (for added flavor and blood sugar control)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 190°C (170°C fan) and lightly grease a medium-sized baking dish with coconut oil or butter.

2. Prepare the fruit filling: In the baking dish, toss the apple slices and blackberries with cinnamon, vanilla extract, and xylitol or stevia. Make sure everything is evenly coated. The apples will provide a natural sweetness while the blackberries add a tart, antioxidant-rich bite.

3. Make the crumble topping: In a separate bowl, combine the ground almonds, oats, almond flour, chia or flaxseeds, xylitol or stevia, and cinnamon. Add the coconut oil or butter and mix until the texture becomes crumbly. The chia or flaxseeds help bind the mixture while adding a boost of fiber and omega-3s for overall skin health.

4. Assemble the crumble: Evenly sprinkle the crumble mixture over the fruit. The topping should be well distributed to give every bite that perfect balance of crunchy goodness.

5. Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the crumble topping is golden and the fruit is tender and bubbling.

6. Serve: Allow the crumble to cool slightly before serving. For an extra protein boost, top it with unsweetened Greek yogurt or a sugar-free coconut yogurt. These provide probiotics that aid digestion and keep your skin looking radiant from the inside out.

The Anti-Aging Power of This Crumble

This isn’t your average crumble. Every ingredient has been carefully selected for its health benefits, making this dessert both indulgent and nutritious:

Cinnamon – Your Blood Sugar’s Best Friend

Cinnamon isn’t just for flavor—it helps lower blood sugar levels and improves insulin sensitivity, making it ideal for those following a low-GI diet. Additionally, it’s packed with antioxidants that fight free radicals, supporting skin elasticity and promoting an overall youthful glow.

Almonds and Chia Seeds – Omega-3s and Healthy Fats for Skin Health

The ground almonds and chia seeds used in the crumble topping are fantastic sources of healthy fats and omega-3s, which are essential for skin hydration and reducing inflammation. Omega-3s are known to enhance skin elasticity and help prevent signs of aging like fine lines and wrinkles.

Blackberries – Antioxidant Powerhouses

These deep-purple berries are high in vitamins C and E, both of which are crucial for collagen production and maintaining your skin’s youthful appearance. Blackberries also contain anthocyanins, antioxidants that help protect your cells from oxidative stress.

Oats – Fiber for Balanced Blood Sugar

Oats are rich in beta-glucan, a type of soluble fiber that supports heart health and helps keep your blood sugar stable. This is especially important for those looking to maintain a lean physique and avoid the sugar spikes that can lead to unwanted fat storage and breakouts.

Seasonal Eating at Its Best

Autumn is the perfect time to embrace seasonal eating, and this crumble does just that. Apples and blackberries are at their best in October, and by using these fruits at their peak, you’re getting the most flavor and nutritional value possible. Their tartness is balanced by the natural sweetness of the xylitol or stevia, making this dessert feel indulgent without derailing your health goals.

Fitness and Wellness Focus

For those of you following a fitness or muscle-building program, this crumble is a game-changer. The combination of protein from the almond flour and healthy fats from the coconut oil and chia seeds helps support muscle repair, making this an ideal post-workout treat. It satisfies your cravings while keeping you full and aiding recovery.

Conclusion

This Anti-Aging, Low GI Apple and Blackberry Crumble with Cinnamon is more than just a dessert—it’s a way to support your body and skin health while indulging in something delicious. Whether you’re looking to maintain stable blood sugar, promote healthy skin, or support your fitness goals, this crumble has you covered. Embrace the flavors of autumn with this nourishing, low-glycemic treat that is sure to become a seasonal favorite.

Stay warm, stay glowing, and enjoy every bite!