1 Shares

As the leaves begin to turn and the air fills with a crispness that signals autumn, my thoughts naturally drift toward the comforting warmth of baked treats. There’s something so inviting about the scent of apples mingling with cinnamon, especially when I know I can enjoy it guilt-free. This Gluten-Free Apple Crisp is a delightful way to celebrate the season, offering all the flavors we crave without the gluten.

Just the other day, I found myself craving a sweet yet wholesome dessert but was tired of the fast-food routine that seems to dominate my evenings. A simple trip to the local farmer’s market armed me with fresh apples, and inspiration struck: why not whip up a classic apple crisp in a gluten-free version?

This recipe is not only easy to make, but it’s also perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in. With its crunchy topping and tender apples, it’s sure to please everyone, gluten-free or not. Let’s dive into this delicious dish that brings warmth, nostalgia, and a touch of homemade magic to your table!

Why will you love Gluten-Free Apple Crisp?

Irresistible aroma: The sweet blend of cinnamon and baked apples fills your kitchen with a warm, welcoming scent that beckons everyone to the table.
Quick and easy: Ready in just 40 minutes, this recipe requires minimal effort for maximum flavor.
Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for any gathering, it satisfies both gluten-free diets and traditional tastes, making it a hit with everyone.
Versatile serving options: Enjoy it warm with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent twist.
Nourishing ingredients: Made with wholesome apples and gluten-free oats, it’s a delicious treat you can feel good about.

For more satisfying dessert ideas, check out our delightful Gluten-Free Dessert Collection.

Gluten-Free Apple Crisp Ingredients

• Perfectly measured for a delightful dessert!

For the Topping

Gluten-free all-purpose flour with xanthan gum – Helps achieve that desired crumbly texture without gluten.
Gluten-free quick oats – Adds a hearty chewiness to the crisp topping.
Light brown sugar – Offers a rich sweetness that caramelizes beautifully when baked.
Gluten-free baking powder – Ensures the topping is light and fluffy.
Ground cinnamon – Adds that warm, autumnal flavor we all love.
Salt – Enhances the overall sweetness and flavor profile.
Butter – Provides richness and helps bind the dry ingredients together; use softened for easy mixing.

For the Apple Filling

Apples – Choose your favorites; Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work wonderfully for both tartness and sweetness.
Melted butter – Moistens the apple mixture and adds a touch of richness.
Lemon juice – Brightens the flavors and keeps the apples from browning.
Milk – Adds creaminess to the filling; dairy or plant-based options work well.
Pure vanilla extract – Infuses a lovely depth of flavor that complements the apples.
Light brown sugar – Just a bit more for sweetness in the filling.
Ground cinnamon – Reinforces that delightful cinnamon flavor throughout the dish.
Salt – A pinch to balance the sweetness and enhance the taste.

This Gluten-Free Apple Crisp is ready to make your home feel cozy and warm, reminding you of season’s past while creating new memories to cherish!

How to Make Gluten-Free Apple Crisp

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Get your 8″ x 8″ baking dish ready by spraying it with gluten-free nonstick cooking spray—this ensures an easy release of your delicious crisp.
Mix the crumb topping ingredients in a medium-sized bowl. Use a fork to combine flour, oats, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt until it resembles chunky crumbs—then refrigerate while preparing the filling.
Combine the apple filling ingredients in a large bowl. Stir together the peeled and chopped apples, lemon juice, milk, melted butter, vanilla extract, brown sugar, cinnamon, gluten-free flour, and salt until everything is well mixed and the apples are coated in goodness.
Pour the delicious apple mixture into your greased baking dish. Spread it evenly, then have fun sprinkling that crunchy crumb topping generously over the apples—each bite will be heavenly!
Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, or until the topping turns golden brown and begins to bubble slightly. Once done, let it cool for 5-10 minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to settle beautifully.

Optional: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Gluten-Free Apple Crisp?

Savoring a warm dessert can be made even more special when paired with delightful sides and drinks that complement its flavors.

Vanilla Ice Cream: This creamy classic melts beautifully over warm apple crisp, enhancing its sweetness and adding a rich, luxurious texture.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a fluffy contrast, making each bite feel indulgent.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel over the crisp delivers a sticky sweetness that perfectly complements the apples and cinnamon.

For an evening treat, think of pairing it with spiced cider or a warm cup of chai.

Spiced Apple Cider: Hot cider infused with cinnamon and cloves echoes the flavors in the crisp, creating a unified autumn experience.
Herbal Tea: A calming chamomile or mint tea provides a gentle contrast to the sweetness, offering a soothing end to the meal.

Don’t forget about serving options for an elevated experience—these pairings will elevate your dessert into something truly memorable!

Gluten-Free Apple Crisp Variations

Feel free to remix this delicious dessert! Here are some tasty twists to make this apple crisp truly yours.

Nutty Delight: Add 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts to the crumb topping for an extra crunch. The rich, earthy flavor pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the apples.
Spicy Heat: Incorporate 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper into the apple filling for a surprising kick. It’s the perfect complement to the sweet and tart apples, making your taste buds dance.
Fruit Fusion: Mix in 1 cup of fresh berries or sliced peaches with the apples. This fruity twist adds a delightful burst of flavor and vibrant color.
Oat-Free Option: Replace oats with 1/2 cup of almond flour or ground almonds for a nut-free crumb topping. This will create a different texture but still maintain that delectable crunch.
Coconut Bliss: Substitute some of the butter with coconut oil and sprinkle shredded coconut on top for a tropical flair. The coconut adds a subtle sweetness and a chewier texture to your crisp.
Maple Sugar: Swap the brown sugar for maple sugar in the topping for a deeper, caramel-like flavor. Maple sweetens the dish beautifully while adding its unique aroma.
Vegan Twist: Use plant-based butter and almond milk instead of dairy for a vegan-friendly version that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Make sure to check your flour to ensure it’s dairy-free!
Chocolate Indulgence: Sprinkle a few chocolate chips over the apple filling before adding the crumb topping. The melting chocolate creates luscious pockets of richness that elevate every bite.

How to Store and Freeze Gluten-Free Apple Crisp

Room Temperature: Allow the crisp to cool completely before covering it loosely with foil or parchment paper. It can be stored at room temperature for up to 1 day.

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 20–30 seconds, or enjoy cold!

Freezer: To freeze, wrap the cooled apple crisp tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: To enjoy that fresh-from-the-oven taste, reheat the thawed crisp in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.

Expert Tips for Gluten-Free Apple Crisp

Choose the Right Apples: For the best flavor, mix tart and sweet apples like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp—which enhance the overall taste of your crisp.
Butter Temperature: Use softened butter for the topping; it blends better with the dry ingredients, ensuring a crumbly texture instead of a doughy one.
Avoid Soggy Bottoms: Make sure you spread the apple filling evenly and do not overload it; this helps prevent the bottom from becoming mushy during baking.
Chill the Topping: Refrigerating the crumb topping before baking helps maintain its crunchiness, adding to the delightful contrast with the tender apples.
Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on your crisp as it bakes. Each oven is different, so you want a golden topping, not overcooked, or burnt.
Customizable Texture: If you prefer a chunkier topping, mix in some chopped nuts or additional oats for a delicious twist to your gluten-free apple crisp!

Make Ahead Options

These Gluten-Free Apple Crisp components are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the crumb topping and refrigerate it for up to 3 days; just keep it in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Additionally, the apple filling can be mixed and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours; this helps to soften the apples and enhance the flavors. When you’re ready to bake, simply spread the apple mixture in your greased baking dish, sprinkle the chilled crumb topping on top, and bake as directed. This way, you’ll enjoy deliciously warm apple crisp with minimal effort on busy weeknights!

Gluten-Free Apple Crisp Recipe FAQs

What type of apples should I use for the Gluten-Free Apple Crisp?
Absolutely! I recommend using a combination of Granny Smith for tartness and Honeycrisp for sweetness. The mix enhances the flavor, making each bite of your crisp a delightful experience!

How do I store leftover Gluten-Free Apple Crisp?
For sure! Allow the crisp to cool completely, then cover it loosely with foil or parchment paper. Store it at room temperature for up to 1 day, or in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 20–30 seconds, or enjoy it cold!

Can I freeze Gluten-Free Apple Crisp?
Yes, you can! To freeze, wrap the cooled apple crisp tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil. It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge, and then reheat it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.

What if my topping is too crumbly or too wet?
Very good question! If you find your topping is too crumbly, try adding a little extra melted butter to bind it together. Conversely, if it’s too wet, you can mix in a bit more gluten-free flour to absorb some of the moisture. Mixing should be done carefully to maintain that fantastic crumbly texture we all love!

Can I make any substitutions for the ingredients?
Absolutely! If you have nut allergies or prefer a nut-free option, you can omit any nuts from the topping. For a dairy-free version, simply use plant-based butter and milk instead of regular butter and milk. Enjoy experimenting with this recipe to suit your dietary needs!

Is this recipe safe for pets, like dogs?
While the ingredients are generally safe, it’s best to avoid sharing desserts with your pets. Some ingredients like lemon juice and cinnamon can be harmful in large amounts to dogs. Always consult your veterinarian about safe human foods for your furry friends!