Name: Cozy & Crunchy: The Best Gluten-Free Apple Crisp
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-483871H16M18S
Total time: PT-483871H16M18S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6-7 apples (Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Fuji), peeled, cored, and sliced; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 2 tbsp granulated sugar; 2 tbsp brown sugar; 1 tsp cinnamon; 1/4 tsp nutmeg; 1 tbsp cornstarch or arrowroot powder; 1 cup gluten-free rolled oats; 1/2 cup almond flour; 1/3 cup brown sugar; 1 tsp cinnamon; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/3 cup butter or coconut oil, softened; 1/3 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There is nothing quite as comforting as a warm, spiced apple crisp straight from the oven. This gluten-free version brings together the perfect balance of tender, cinnamon-infused apples and a crunchy oat topping without compromising on flavor or texture. Whether you follow a gluten-free diet or simply love a delicious dessert, this recipe is easy to make, packed with wholesome ingredients, and sure to be a family favorite.

Highlights of This Recipe:

Made with naturally gluten-free ingredients
Perfectly spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg
Crisp, golden-brown topping with a satisfying crunch
Simple to prepare with pantry-friendly ingredients
Easily adaptable for dairy-free and vegan diets

Ingredients

For the Apple Filling:

Apples (such as Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Fuji)
Lemon juice
Granulated sugar
Brown sugar
Cinnamon
Nutmeg
Cornstarch or arrowroot powder

For the Crisp Topping:

Gluten-free rolled oats
Almond flour
Brown sugar
Cinnamon
Salt
Butter or coconut oil
Chopped nuts (such as pecans or walnuts, optional)

Directions

Preheat the Oven – Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish with butter or a non-stick spray.
Prepare the Apple Filling – Peel, core, and slice the apples into thin pieces. Place them in a large mixing bowl and toss with lemon juice, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cornstarch. Stir well to coat the apples evenly. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out into an even layer.
Make the Crisp Topping – In a separate bowl, combine the gluten-free rolled oats, almond flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Stir to mix. Add the softened butter or coconut oil and use a fork or your hands to mix until the topping becomes crumbly. If using nuts, stir them in at this stage.
Assemble and Bake – Evenly distribute the crisp topping over the apple filling, making sure to cover as much surface area as possible. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown.
Cool and Serve – Let the apple crisp rest for about 10 minutes before serving. Enjoy it warm on its own or topped with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

Variations

Dairy-Free/Vegan: Substitute butter with coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative.
Nut-Free: Omit chopped nuts and replace almond flour with oat flour or an all-purpose gluten-free blend.
Extra Crunch: Add shredded coconut or sunflower seeds to the crisp topping.
Sweeter Apples: If using naturally sweet apples like Fuji or Gala, reduce the amount of sugar in the filling.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
Total Time: 55-60 minutes
Servings: 6-8

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or microwave individual portions for 30-45 seconds.

FAQs

How do I make sure my apple crisp is gluten-free?

Ensure all ingredients, especially oats and any thickening agents, are labeled gluten-free.

What type of apples work best?

A mix of tart (Granny Smith) and sweet (Honeycrisp or Fuji) apples provides the best balance.

Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

Yes, but the texture will be slightly softer.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble and refrigerate before baking, then bake when ready.

How do I keep the topping from getting soggy?

Bake uncovered and use the right ratio of butter or oil to keep it crisp.

Is this recipe suitable for diabetics?

You can reduce the sugar or use a sugar substitute to make it more diabetes-friendly.

Can I make this recipe nut-free?

Yes! Simply omit the nuts and replace almond flour with another gluten-free option.

What can I serve with apple crisp?

Vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce pairs beautifully.

Can I make this recipe without oats?

Yes, try substituting with a mix of coconut flakes and ground nuts.

Why is my apple crisp runny?

This may happen if there isn’t enough cornstarch or if the apples are extra juicy. Letting it cool before serving helps thicken the filling.

Conclusion

This gluten-free apple crisp is a must-try dessert that delivers both coziness and crunch in every bite. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, it’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re entertaining guests or just craving a comforting treat. Give it a try, and enjoy the delicious aroma of baked apples and cinnamon filling your kitchen!

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