Guest Author - Jennifer Murray

Cherries are not only a great source of antioxidants, but are also rich in fiber as well. Dried cherries are actually higher in nutrients than fresh cherries; however, dried cherries are best eaten in moderation because they are also higher in calories than fresh cherries. With 5 grams of fiber per serving, apples make for a great source of fiber as well.

This Apple Crisp recipe is very easy to prepare and makes for a great dessert (or even as a snack) with only 150 calories per serving. Enjoy!

Ingredients

1/4 cup unsweetened dried cherries

1/2 cup water

1/2 cup old-fashioned rolled oats

1/2 cup trans-fat-free margarine

1/2 cup whole-grain pastry flour

1/4 cup plus 2 tbsp. granular sugar substitute

2 tbsp. ground cinnamon

9 Granny Smith apples. sliced (9 to 10 cups)

2 tbsp. fresh lemon juice

Directions
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly coat a 9 x 13 inch baking dish with cooking spray.

2. Soak cherries in a bowl of 1/2 cup water until ready for use.

3. Mix oats, margarine, 1/4 cup of the flour, 1/4 cup sugar substitute, and 1 tbsp. of the cinnamon in a bowl. Stir until crumbly.

4. Toss apples and lemon juice together in a separate bowl. Combine remaining 1/4 cup flour, 2 tbsp. sugar substitute, and remaining 1 tbsp. cinnamon with apples and lemon juice mixture.

5. Place apples in baking dish and pour cherries and soaking water over apple mixture. Toss gently to combine. Sprinkle oat topping evenly over the fruit mixture.

6. Bake until apples are tender (appx. 40 minutes). Serve warm.

Nutritional Info:
Makes 12 (1-cup) servings
Calories: 150
Fat: 7g
Protein: 1g
Carbs: 23g
Fiber: 5g
Sodium: 60 mg