If you're looking for a healthier dessert option to apple pie or a special twist on baked oatmeal, this Apple Walnut Casserole is the perfect choice. This recipe combines the warm, spiced flavors of fall with nutrient-dense ingredients, making it a fantastic seasonal treat that feels just as indulgent as pie. With a unique mix of textures and flavors—think shredded apples, crunchy nuts, and a lightly crisped oat topping—this casserole has all the makings of a cozy, fall favorite that’s ideal for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.
When you think of casseroles, savory dishes like baked pasta or veggie bakes probably come to mind. But this Apple Walnut Casserole is a delightfully sweet recipe baked in a classic 9"x 11" (23 x 28 cm) glass baking dish, the kind you’d typically use for a hearty family casserole. Here, that familiar dish transforms into a cozy, fruit-filled dessert or breakfast bake that’s perfect for autumn gatherings or weekend brunch!
Health Benefits of the Ingredients:
Fall at the farmers' market is the perfect time to stock up on apples and walnuts, two stars of this recipe that come with a host of health benefits. Here’s a look at why this dish is both delicious and nourishing!
Apples ~ Apples aren’t just delicious; they're packed with fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants. These nutrients support healthy digestion, help with weight management, and are linked to better brain health. Feel free to use a mix of varieties for a balance of flavors and textures. Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, Fuji, and Gala all work well. And don’t peel them! The skin adds extra fiber and nutrients, plus a pop of color.
Walnuts ~ Walnuts are one of fall’s most nutritious finds. They’re rich in alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), a plant-based omega-3 that helps reduce inflammation. Their mild, slightly tangy flavor complements the apples and adds a rich, nutty complexity to the dish.
Oats ~ In place of traditional flour, oats bring extra fiber and heart-healthy benefits. Processing them into flour keeps the dish gluten-free while adding a hearty, wholesome texture. Oats are also great for stabilizing blood sugar levels, making this a more balanced option for dessert or breakfast.
Recipe Tips:
A food processor makes prep a breeze: use it to grind oats and walnuts into a flour, then switch to the grating blade for the apples. The layers of apples and dry ingredients come together as the moisture from the apples naturally binds the oats and nuts, creating a soft, cake-like base with a crispy top.
Store in the refrigerator to set the baked apples, making it easier to cut into squares. This recipe tastes delicious soft out of the oven, at room temperature, chilled, or reheated in the microwave!
Apple Walnut Casserole
Ingredients:
8 medium apples (2.5-3 pounds)
3 cups rolled oats
1 ½ cup shelled walnuts
2/3 cup brown sugar
1 stick (1/2 cup) cold unsalted butter, plus 1-2 tablespoons for greasing
4 teaspoons cinnamon, divided
Directions:
Process Oats & Walnuts: In a food processor, pulse the oats and walnuts to a flour-like consistency. In a large bowl, combine oats and walnut "flour" with brown sugar and 2 teaspoons of cinnamon.
Grate Apples: Grate apples (leave the peel on) and mix with remaining cinnamon.
Assemble Layers: Grease a 9” x 11” casserole dish with butter. Layer a third of the oat mixture, half the apples, then another third of the oat mixture. Add the remaining apples and top with the last third of the oat mixture. Spread each layer evenly across the entire greased dish as noted below:
Walnut/Oat Mixture
Apples
Walnut/Oat Mixture
Apples
Walnut/Oat Mixture
Butter
Add Butter: Slice or grate the cold butter evenly on top of the final layer of dry ingredients.
Bake: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
Cool & Serve: Let cool before cutting into squares.
Optional Add-Ins, Toppings and Alternatives:
Add-ins: Mix ½ cup dried cranberries or raisins with the apples.
Extra Crunch: Sprinkle the top with ¼ cup turbinado sugar before baking.
Toppings: Serve with vanilla yogurt, whipped cream, or ice cream.
Alternatives: If you’re not a fan of walnuts, try using hazelnuts or pecans instead.
This casserole is a wonderful way to enjoy fall produce in a nutritious, warming dish that’s full of flavor and texture. Enjoy it as a special breakfast, a nourishing snack, or a healthier alternative to traditional desserts!
Comments