Gut-Loving Apple Crumble Slice
A delicious three-layer slice with the gut-healing benefits of added collagen and stewed apple.
There’s something deeply comforting about the humble apple crumble—especially when it’s been given a gut-nourishing twist. This slice combines a buttery biscuit base, soft cinnamon stewed apple filling, and a golden oat crumble topping for the ultimate wholesome treat.
The real hero here? Stewed apples. When apples are gently cooked, they release a special type of soluble fibre called pectin, which is incredibly soothing for the gut lining.
Pectin supports healthy digestion, encourages the growth of beneficial bacteria, and can help reduce inflammation in the digestive tract. It’s a gentle, nourishing ingredient—perfect for sensitive tummies or anyone looking to support their microbiome. Apples contain a decent amount of pectin, but to enhance this, stewing apples helps to break down the cell walls and release more of this soluble fibre, making it more bioavailable and beneficial for gut health.
Biscuit Base (The Bottom Layer)
2 cups plain or spelt flour (300g)
125g butter, softened (about ½ cup)
2-3 tbsp unflavoured Collagen (optional gut loving ingredient)
1 tsp vanilla bean paste, powder or extract
1 whole egg
½ cup coconut sugar or sweetener of choice (roughly 100g)
Method:
Mix all base ingredients in a bowl until a crumbly dough forms. Press evenly into a lined slice tray (approx. 20x30cm).
Bake at 180°C for 15 minutes or until lightly golden. Set aside.
Stewed Apple Filling (The Middle layer)
6-8 medium apples (~1kg) cored & thinly sliced (we leave the skin on for extra pectin and fibre, but if you don’t enjoy it peel them)
1 tbsp butter (15g)
1–2 tsp cinnamon (to taste)
1 tsp ginger
Method:
Place apples, butter, and cinnamon in a saucepan over low heat. Cook gently for 15 minutes until the apples are soft and lightly stewed. If you need add small amounts of water to avoid burning.
***Tip: I always make more stewed apple then needed, and set some aside to add to yoghurt or oats.
Crumble Topping (The Top layer)
1½ cups plain flour (225g)
1/2 cup coconut sugar (165g)
1 tsp cinnamon
1 cup Oats (90g)
200g butter, melted (approx. 1 cup)
Method:
Mix dry ingredients together in a large bowl. Pour in melted butter and stir until mixture is crumbly and moist.
To Assemble & Bake
Spread stewed apples evenly over the pre-baked biscuit base, press the apple into the pan (almost compacting it here) this will help the slice hold its shape.
Sprinkle the crumble topping generously over the apples.
Return the tray to the oven and bake at 180°C for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown on top.
Cool completely (if you can wait that long) in the tray before slicing into squares or bars.
Refrigerate and enjoy! Don’t forget to leave us a review below, and tag us in your creations on socials.