Welcome to the perfect blend of comfort food and nutritional powerhouse! If you adore the warm, spiced flavors of apple crumble but need a healthy, grab-and-go solution for breakfast or dessert, this Apple Crumble Chia Pudding recipe is your new obsession. It captures the essence of a freshly baked dessert sweet, tender apples, cinnamon warmth, and a satisfyingly crunchy oat topping all nestled over a creamy, fiber-rich chia base. This isn’t just breakfast; it’s a layered masterpiece that tastes entirely indulgent while keeping you feeling fantastic all day long.
The genius of this recipe lies in its contrasting textures and temperatures. You get the cool, velvety consistency of the pudding, the soft, slightly warm chewiness of the spiced apples, and the crisp, buttery crunch of the oat crumble. Unlike traditional apple crumble, which requires significant baking time and heavy fats, this version is meticulously balanced, making it ideal for meal prepping throughout the week. Prep the three main components ahead of time, assemble them when ready to eat, and enjoy pure, cozy bliss. Forget boring overnight oats it’s time to upgrade your mornings with the decadence of Apple Crumble Chia Pudding.
Why You’ll Fall Head Over Heels for This Apple Crumble Chia Pudding
This recipe is more than just a list of ingredients; it’s an experience that appeals to all five senses and perfectly marries the concept of healthy eating with true flavor satisfaction. If you are tired of sacrificing taste for nutrition, the Apple Crumble Chia Pudding offers a beautiful compromise. It delivers complex flavor profiles reminiscent of fall baking but is light enough to enjoy guilt-free any day of the year.
The primary reason this recipe stands out is the incredible texture contrast. Most chia puddings suffer from being uniformly smooth. By incorporating three distinct layers the slick, thick chia base, the soft diced apples, and the crunchy, toasted oat crumble we create a dynamic eating experience. Every spoonful is different, preventing that “boring breakfast” fatigue. The creamy base acts as a cooling counterpoint to the warm, heavily spiced apple filling, while the crumble provides essential crunch that mimics a traditional baked topping.
Furthermore, this Apple Crumble Chia Pudding is a true champion of convenience, especially for those who rely on meal prepping. The base and the apple filling can be prepared 2-3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. This modular approach means that in the morning, all you have to do is scoop, layer, and sprinkle the pre-made crumble (which is crucial, as you want the crumble to be added fresh to maintain its snap). This makes achieving a gourmet, satisfying breakfast possible even on the busiest Monday morning. It requires far less effort than baking something like our beloved Mini Apple Pies, yet delivers similar comforting flavors.
We also love the seasonal flexibility of this dish. While apples are traditionally an autumn staple, they are available year-round. This allows you to enjoy that cozy, cinnamon-spiced warmth whenever you need a dose of comfort. The aroma of the cooked apples filling your kitchen is an added bonus, instantly boosting your mood and making your home smell like an old-fashioned bakery. For those seeking depth of flavor in their daily routines, this pudding delivers. It uses spices like cinnamon and nutmeg not just for sweetness, but to add an earthy warmth that complements the natural tartness of the apples. This attention to layered flavor ensures that the Apple Crumble Chia Pudding feels satisfying and complete, whether you enjoy it as a nutritious breakfast, a post-workout recovery snack, or a light evening dessert.
The Health Benefits and Convenience: Why You Should Try This Recipe
Moving beyond deliciousness, the Apple Crumble Chia Pudding offers substantial health benefits packed into a single jar. It’s an easy win for anyone looking to boost their intake of fiber, healthy fats, and essential micronutrients without resorting to heavily processed breakfast options.
The star of the show, of course, is the chia seed. These tiny seeds are nutritional powerhouses. Chia seeds are one of the best plant-based sources of Omega-3 fatty acids, specifically alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), which supports heart health and brain function. When soaked, they absorb up to 12 times their weight in liquid, creating the unique, gelatinous texture that makes this pudding base so satisfyingly creamy. More importantly, chia seeds are exceptionally high in dietary fiber. A single serving of this pudding contributes significantly to your daily fiber goals, promoting digestive health, stabilizing blood sugar levels, and helping you feel fuller for longer, which is key to successful weight management.
The recipe is also incredibly versatile and easily adaptable for various dietary needs:
Vegan and Dairy-Free: The base recipe already incorporates non-dairy milk options (almond or oat milk are excellent choices). By using coconut oil instead of butter in the crumble, this entire Apple Crumble Chia Pudding becomes 100% vegan.
Gluten-Free: Ensure you use certified gluten-free rolled oats and swap the all-purpose flour for almond flour or a GF blend in the crumble topping. This substitution is seamless and doesn’t compromise the crunch.
Refined Sugar-Free: The recipe uses natural sweeteners like maple syrup, honey, and brown sugar. For strict control, you can substitute the brown sugar in both the filling and the crumble with more maple syrup or date paste, ensuring that the sweetness comes purely from natural sources.
Beyond the chia seeds, the remaining components contribute positively to your well-being. The cooked apple filling provides natural fruit sugars alongside important vitamins (like Vitamin C) and antioxidants. Cooking the apples slightly tenderizes them, making the nutrients more bioavailable, especially when combined with the healthy fats from the chia seeds. The crumble, made primarily from rolled oats, adds complex carbohydrates, giving you sustained energy release throughout the morning, preventing that mid-morning crash often associated with simple sugary breakfasts.
Choosing to make Apple Crumble Chia Pudding is choosing smart nutrition combined with outstanding taste. It’s the easiest way to ensure you have a prepared, healthy, and delicious meal waiting for you, requiring minimal effort but yielding maximum flavor and health benefits.
Gathering Your Ingredients and Essential Utensils for Perfect Apple Crumble Chia Pudding
Success in creating the ultimate Apple Crumble Chia Pudding starts with precise measurements and understanding how each component interacts. We break this recipe down into three distinct phases the base, the filling, and the topping each requiring specific ingredients to achieve the desired texture and flavor profile.
Ingredients List: Layering Flavor and Texture
The following detailed list ensures you have everything needed to build this layered dessert.
I. For the Chia Pudding Base (The Creamy Foundation)
- 1/2 cup Chia Seeds: Use whole, quality chia seeds. They are the structural component responsible for thickening the liquid into a pudding.
- 2 cups Milk (dairy or non-dairy like almond or oat milk): The liquid medium. Oat milk provides the creamiest texture, closely mimicking dairy milk, while almond milk offers a lighter, lower-calorie option.
- 2 Tablespoons Maple Syrup or Honey (adjust to taste): Provides natural sweetness. Maple syrup is preferable for its liquid consistency and complementary flavor profile, especially if aiming for a vegan pudding.
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract: Essential for rounding out the flavor and adding a hint of dessert richness.
- 1/4 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon: Pairs perfectly with the apple layer and infuses the base with subtle warmth.
- Pinch of Salt: Crucial for balancing the sweetness and enhancing all other flavors. Do not skip this!
II. For the Warm Apple Filling (The Core Flavor)
Selecting the right apple is key. We need firmness to prevent the apples from turning into mush during cooking.
- 2 medium Apples (firm varieties like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith): Peeled, cored, and diced into small, uniform pieces. Granny Smith provides a pleasant tartness that cuts through the sweetness of the pudding. Honeycrisp maintains its shape beautifully.
- 1 Tablespoon Water or Apple Juice: Used to prevent sticking and create a gentle steam, aiding in the softening process without frying the apples.
- 1 Tablespoon Brown Sugar (or maple syrup): Adds depth and a hint of molasses flavor that enhances the “crumble” experience.
- 1/2 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon: Generous cinnamon ensures the apples are deeply spiced and aromatic.
- 1/4 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg: A small amount of nutmeg deepens the autumnal spice blend.
III. For the Crispy Crumble Topping (The Defining Crunch)
This is the element that elevates the dish, providing the necessary contrast to the soft pudding and apples. We need cold fat to achieve the best crumb structure.
- 1/2 cup Rolled Oats (not instant oats): Rolled oats hold their structure and provide a hearty, chewy crunch when toasted. If making this gluten-free, ensure they are certified GF.
- 1 Tablespoon All-Purpose Flour (or almond flour): Binds the oats and sugar, preventing them from melting into a caramel mess.
- 2 Tablespoons Brown Sugar: Contributes to the golden color and rich flavor of the crumble.
- 1 Tablespoon Cold Butter or Coconut Oil: The fat component. Using cold fat is vital; it prevents the mixture from turning into a paste and ensures light, crisp crumbs when baked or toasted.
- 1/4 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon: For extra spice in the topping.
Tools for Apple Crumble Chia Pudding Success
While this recipe is simple, having the right tools makes the process seamless and ensures perfect results every time.
- Large Mixing Bowl or Sealed Container: Essential for preparing and refrigerating the chia pudding base. A container with a tight lid is ideal for easy shaking.
- Whisk or Fork: Necessary for aggressively mixing the chia seeds and liquid to prevent clumping.
- Small Saucepan: Used exclusively for cooking the spiced apple filling.
- Small Baking Sheet and Parchment Paper (for oven method): Crucial for baking the crumble evenly and ensuring easy cleanup.
- Small Skillet (for stovetop method): An alternative to the oven for toasting the crumble topping quickly.
- Cutting Board and Sharp Knife: For peeling, coring, and dicing the apples uniformly.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accuracy is important, especially when dealing with the chia pudding ratio.
- Serving Containers (Mason Jars or Glasses): Perfect for layering and presentation, transforming the Apple Crumble Chia Pudding into a photogenic meal-prep staple.
Step-by-Step Mastery: How to Create the Perfect Apple Crumble Chia Pudding
Creating this incredible layered breakfast involves four distinct, simple steps. For the best result, the chia pudding and crumble should be prepared well in advance, leaving the apple filling as the optional final, warm element. We need to be meticulous with the preparation steps to achieve the ideal texture contrasts.
Step 1: The Creamy Chia Pudding Base (The Foundation)
The success of your Apple Crumble Chia Pudding rests on the texture of this base. It must be thick, creamy, and free of clumps.
1. Combine Ingredients: In your large mixing bowl or sealed container, measure and combine the chia seeds, milk (oat milk is highly recommended for maximum creaminess), maple syrup or honey, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and the pinch of salt.
2. Initial Vigor: Whisk the mixture thoroughly for at least one full minute. Chia seeds tend to sink and stick together almost instantly, so vigorous whisking is necessary to disperse them evenly throughout the liquid. If using a sealed jar, shake it aggressively.
3. The Crucial Second Stir: Let the mixture rest, uncovered, for five minutes. This allows the initial gelling process to begin. Then, stir it vigorously one more time. This prevents any remaining seeds from settling at the very bottom and ensures uniform thickening. This simple trick is essential for avoiding a watery layer at the top and a solid clump at the base.
4. Chill and Set: Cover the container tightly and refrigerate. The pudding requires a minimum of four hours to set completely, but ideally, you should prepare it the night before and let it chill overnight. The mixture should be thick enough to hold a spoon upright when fully set.
Step 2: Achieving the Ultimate Crispy Crumble Topping
A soggy crumble is a culinary tragedy. The key here is using cold fat and cooling the crumble completely before it touches the chia pudding or apple filling.
1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a small baking sheet with parchment paper. Alternatively, skip the oven and prepare a small skillet for stovetop toasting.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine the rolled oats, flour (all-purpose or almond), brown sugar, and cinnamon. Mix these dry ingredients until they are thoroughly combined.
3. Cut in the Fat: Cube the cold butter or coconut oil into tiny pieces. Use your fingertips (not your whole palm, as the heat from your hands will melt the butter) to quickly work the cold fat into the dry mixture. You are looking for a sandy texture with some coarse, pea-sized crumbs remaining.
4. Bake or Toast:
Oven Method: Spread the mixture evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 8 to 12 minutes. Watch closely the edges should turn golden brown and the entire kitchen should fill with a warm, fragrant oat aroma.
Stovetop Method: Place the mixture in a dry skillet over medium heat. Stir constantly and rapidly for about 5 to 8 minutes until toasted and golden. This method is faster but requires undivided attention to prevent burning.
5. Cool Completely: Remove the crumble from the heat and allow it to cool completely. Spreading it thinly on the parchment paper speeds this process. This step cannot be rushed; heat and moisture are the enemies of crunch. If you layer warm crumble onto the Apple Crumble Chia Pudding, it will quickly become soft.
Step 3: Cooking the Warm Spiced Apple Filling
This step infuses the dish with the quintessential ‘crumble’ flavor. We want the apples soft, but not disintegrated, similar to the perfect texture you’d find in a traditional Apple Crumble Pie.
1. Sauté the Apples: Place the uniformly diced apples, water or apple juice, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a small saucepan over medium heat.
2. Simmer Gently: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Once bubbling, immediately reduce the heat to low. Cover the pan loosely if the apples seem dry, or leave uncovered if you want the liquid to reduce into a thicker glaze.
3. Cook to Perfection: Cook the apples, stirring every few minutes, for 8 to 12 minutes. The goal is soft, tender apples that still hold their shape. They should offer slight resistance when pierced but shouldn’t be mushy like applesauce.
4. Rest: Remove the saucepan from the heat. If you plan to assemble the Apple Crumble Chia Pudding immediately, keep the apples slightly warm. For meal prepping, allow the spiced apples to cool completely to room temperature before storing in the refrigerator.
Step 4: Assembly for Maximum Enjoyment
This is where the magic happens and the layers come together in a beautiful, ready-to-eat jar.
1. Prep the Pudding: Retrieve the chilled chia pudding base. It should be thick and gelled. Give it a gentle stir to loosen it up slightly.
2. Layer the Base: Spoon a generous layer of the chia pudding into the bottom of your mason jars or serving containers, filling them approximately halfway.
3. Add the Filling: Add a substantial layer of the prepared spiced apple filling over the top of the pudding. Ensure the apples are evenly distributed.
4. Top Layer (Optional): If you prefer a triple-layered look, add a final spoonful of the remaining chia pudding over the apples.
5. The Grand Finale: Finish the dessert by sprinkling a generous portion of the cooled, crispy oat crumble topping over the very top.
6. Serve: For the most dramatic texture contrast, serve the Apple Crumble Chia Pudding immediately. If prepping ahead, cover and refrigerate the layered components (pudding and apples), but always store the crumble separately and only add it just before serving to maintain its ultimate crunch.
Tips, Variations, and Troubleshooting Your Apple Crumble Chia Pudding
While this recipe is straightforward, a few expert tips can help you tailor the Apple Crumble Chia Pudding to specific dietary needs or avoid common pitfalls. Mastering these variations ensures you can enjoy this dish regardless of your preferences.
Ingredient Swaps and Flavor Variations
The beauty of chia pudding lies in its flexibility. Feel free to adapt the recipe based on what you have available and your dietary restrictions:
Make it Keto/Low Carb: Chia pudding is naturally low in carbohydrates when compared to oatmeal. To keep this dish keto-friendly, swap the maple syrup and brown sugar for zero-calorie sweeteners like erythritol or monk fruit. For the crumble, use almond flour and skip the oats, replacing them with chopped nuts (like pecans or walnuts) for crunch.
Fruit Swaps for the Filling: Can’t find good apples? This recipe works wonderfully with other firm fruits. Try sliced pears, a mix of berries (blueberries and raspberries), or even chopped peaches during the summer months. Adjust the cooking time accordingly; softer fruits like berries will need less time than firm pears.
Boost the Protein: For a more substantial breakfast, stir 1-2 tablespoons of vanilla or unflavored protein powder into the chia pudding mixture before chilling. You may need to add an extra splash of milk as the protein powder will absorb liquid.
Spice it Up: Enhance the spices in the apple filling. A pinch of ground cloves or allspice will give the Apple Crumble Chia Pudding a deeper, more robust flavor, especially during the colder months. You could also try a teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice mix for an autumnal twist.
Troubleshooting Common Chia Pudding Mistakes
1. “My Pudding is Too Thin/Watery”: This is the most common issue, usually due to incorrect seed-to-liquid ratio or insufficient mixing.
The Fix: If it’s already chilled and still liquidy, stir in an extra 1–2 teaspoons of chia seeds per cup of pudding and let it chill for another hour or two. Remember that the second vigorous stir in Step 1 is essential!
2. “My Crumble Went Soft”: If the crumble is added ahead of time, it will absorb moisture from the apples and pudding.
The Fix: Always store the crumble topping separately in an airtight container at room temperature. Only add it right before serving. If your crumble is already soggy, you can attempt to crisp it up again by baking it on a sheet tray for 5 minutes at 300°F (150°C), then allowing it to cool completely again.
3. “My Apples Are Mushy”: You likely cooked them too long or used a soft variety of apple (like McIntosh).
The Fix: Next time, use firm apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, Gala). If they are already mushy, embrace it! Use them as a layer of thick, spiced applesauce instead.
Need more inspiration for easy, healthy snacks? Follow my Pinterest board for more healthy breakfast and dessert ideas!
Nutritional Breakdown and Wellness Benefits of Apple Crumble Chia Pudding
The Apple Crumble Chia Pudding offers a fantastic balance of macronutrients, making it an excellent choice for sustained energy, gut health, and satiety. While exact nutritional values depend heavily on the type of milk (dairy vs. almond) and sweetener used, we can provide a general overview of the health benefits inherent in the core components.
Approximate Nutritional Snapshot (Per Serving, based on 4 servings)
(Note: These are estimates and vary based on substitutions.)
Key Nutritional Components
- Calories: Approximately 300–350 kcal
- Protein: 8–10 grams (Higher with dairy or protein powder)
- Healthy Fats: 12–15 grams (Primarily unsaturated Omega-3s from chia)
- Fiber: 10–14 grams (Significant contribution from chia and oats)
- Carbohydrates: 40–45 grams (Complex carbs from oats and natural sugars from apples/syrup)
The Health Powerhouses in This Recipe
The intentional choice of ingredients ensures this Apple Crumble Chia Pudding delivers maximum nourishment:
1.
Chia Seeds: Fiber and Omega-3 Boost
Chia seeds are renowned for their high fiber content (mostly soluble fiber), which acts as a prebiotic, feeding beneficial gut bacteria. This is crucial for smooth digestion and can aid in lowering cholesterol. Furthermore, the high concentration of Omega-3 fatty acids in chia seeds helps reduce inflammation and supports cardiovascular health. Incorporating an easy meal like this is a seamless way to meet those vital fatty acid requirements. For other easy-to-make snacks high in healthy fats, consider checking out our recipe for No-Bake Peanut Butter Energy Bites.
2.
Rolled Oats: Sustained Energy
Oats are complex carbohydrates, meaning they are digested slowly, providing a steady release of energy without the dramatic blood sugar spike associated with simple carbs. They also contain a powerful type of soluble fiber called beta-glucan, known for its cholesterol-lowering properties. Using rolled oats in the crumble topping ensures you get this nutritional benefit alongside your crunch.
3.
Apples and Spices: Vitamins and Antioxidants
Apples are an excellent source of Vitamin C and various antioxidants, particularly in the peel (though we peel them here for texture, the pulp still offers benefits). The spices cinnamon and nutmeg are not just for flavor. Cinnamon, in particular, has been studied for its potential anti-inflammatory properties and its ability to help improve insulin sensitivity, supporting healthy blood sugar management.
By combining these nutrient-dense ingredients, this Apple Crumble Chia Pudding transforms a simple breakfast into a functional meal that supports digestion, heart health, and sustained energy levels.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Apple Crumble Chia Pudding
We’ve compiled answers to the most common questions regarding the preparation and storage of this delicious layered breakfast.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Apple Crumble Chia Pudding
How long does Apple Crumble Chia Pudding last in the refrigerator?
The prepared chia pudding base and the spiced apple filling can be safely stored in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When assembling, remember to only add the crispy crumble topping just before serving to prevent it from becoming soggy and losing its crunch.
Can I make the chia pudding base without refrigeration?
No, refrigeration is essential for the chia pudding to properly gel and thicken into a creamy consistency. The cooling process helps the chia seeds absorb the milk efficiently. If left at room temperature, the chia seeds will thicken but the pudding may spoil or separate quickly, so always chill for at least four hours or overnight.
What is the best type of apple to use for the Apple Crumble Chia Pudding filling?
The best apples are firm varieties that hold their shape when cooked, such as Honeycrisp, Gala, or Granny Smith. Granny Smith is particularly good because its tartness provides a pleasant counterpoint to the sweetness of the pudding. Avoid soft apples like McIntosh or Red Delicious, as they tend to turn into applesauce too quickly.
Can I toast the crumble topping without an oven?
Yes, the crumble can be easily toasted on the stovetop. Simply spread the prepared crumble mixture in a dry skillet over medium heat. Stir constantly for 5–8 minutes until the oats are fragrant and golden brown. This method is faster but requires constant attention to prevent burning.
Is Apple Crumble Chia Pudding suitable for a diabetic or low-sugar diet?
The base recipe uses natural sugars, but for a diabetic or low-sugar diet, you can easily substitute the maple syrup and brown sugar with sugar-free sweeteners like stevia or erythritol. Chia seeds are beneficial due to their high fiber content, which helps regulate blood sugar levels, making this a much better option than most processed breakfast cereals.
Conclusion: Your New Go-To Healthy Indulgence
We’ve successfully transformed the cozy, decadent flavors of a traditional apple crumble into a nutritious, layered masterpiece perfect for modern, busy living. This Apple Crumble Chia Pudding is truly the best of both worlds: it offers the deep, comforting spices of baked goods alongside the superb nutritional profile of chia seeds and whole oats. By preparing the creamy chia base, the tender spiced apples, and the crispy crumble topping ahead of time, you arm yourself with several days of delicious, ready-to-eat meals that require zero morning prep time.
Remember the three pillars of success for this recipe: Vigorous stirring for the chia pudding to avoid clumping; using cold fat and cooling completely for the crispest crumble; and choosing firm apples to maintain structure in the filling. Whether you are seeking a healthier dessert alternative or a protein and fiber-rich breakfast to fuel your day, the Apple Crumble Chia Pudding delivers complex flavor and satisfying texture in every layer.
Don’t let another morning pass with a boring bowl of cereal. Embrace this simple yet elegant recipe and enjoy the warm taste of homemade apple crumble, guilt-free. If you love quick and nutritious energy boosters, you might also enjoy making our No-Bake Peanut Butter Energy Bites. Give this Apple Crumble Chia Pudding a try today, share your results in the comments below, and let us know which apple variety you used for your perfect batch!

Apple Crumble Chia Pudding (Overnight Breakfast)
Equipment
- Large Mixing Bowl
- Small saucepan
- Baking Sheet (or Skillet)
- Mason Jars or Glasses
Ingredients
I. For the Chia Pudding Base
- 1/2 cup Chia Seeds
- 2 cups Milk dairy or non-dairy (almond, oat, or soy)
- 2 Tablespoons Maple Syrup or Honey adjust to taste
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
- 1/4 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon
- Pinch Salt
II. For the Warm Apple Filling
- 2 medium Apples peeled, cored, and diced (Honeycrisp or Granny Smith)
- 1 Tablespoon Water or Apple Juice
- 1 Tablespoon Brown Sugar or maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg
III. For the Crispy Crumble Topping
- 1/2 cup Rolled Oats not instant oats
- 1 Tablespoon All-Purpose Flour or almond/gluten-free flour
- 2 Tablespoons Brown Sugar
- 1 Tablespoon Cold Butter or Coconut Oil cold and cubed
- 1/4 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chia Pudding Base (Requires time to set)
- In a large mixing bowl or a sealed container, combine the chia seeds, milk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and the pinch of salt.
- Whisk the mixture thoroughly for about one minute, ensuring there are no clumps of chia seeds stuck together at the bottom.
- Let the mixture rest for five minutes, and then stir it vigorously one more time to prevent the seeds from settling too quickly. Cover the container tightly and refrigerate for a minimum of four hours, or preferably overnight, allowing the pudding to thicken completely.
Step 2: Prepare the Crispy Crumble Topping
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a small bowl, combine the rolled oats, flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Mix these dry ingredients together well.
- Cut the cold butter or coconut oil into small cubes and use your fingertips to quickly work the fat into the dry mixture until coarse, pea-sized crumbs form.
- Spread the crumble mixture evenly onto a small, parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 8 to 12 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and smells fragrant. Remove the crumble from the heat and allow it to cool completely before assembly; this is crucial for maintaining crispness.
Step 3: Prepare the Warm Apple Filling
- Place the diced apples, water or apple juice, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a small saucepan over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low.
- Cook the apples, stirring occasionally, for 8 to 12 minutes, or until the apples have softened significantly but still retain a slight structure. Remove the saucepan from the heat and set the spiced apples aside, allowing them to cool to room temperature before layering.
Step 4: Assemble the Apple Crumble Chia Pudding
- Retrieve the chilled chia pudding base from the refrigerator and give it a gentle stir. Select your serving containers (mason jars or glasses).
- Spoon a generous layer of the chia pudding into the bottom of each container, filling approximately halfway.
- Add a substantial layer of the prepared warm or cooled spiced apple filling over the pudding layer.
- Finish the dessert by sprinkling a generous portion of the cooled, crispy oat crumble topping over the very top of the pudding. Serve immediately.