Gluten-Free Apple Crisp

Posted in Recipe Collections / Gluten-Free Recipes: All the Flavor, None of the Wheat
Gluten-Free Apple Crisp
Fall is synonymous with apple season, and what better way to celebrate the harvest than with a warm, comforting serving of Gluten-Free Apple Crisp? This recipe combines the sweet and tart flavors of fresh apples with a crispy, golden topping for a dessert that's perfect for cozy evenings or sharing at gatherings. Plus, it's entirely gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.

Ingredients

For the apple filling:

  • Cooking spray, for coating the baking dish
  • 2 pounds of apples (about 4-5 medium-sized apples), peeled, cored, and chopped
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice

For the topping:

  • 2 cups gluten-free rolled oats, divided
  • ¾ cup packed light brown sugar
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted and cooled
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Equipment:

  • 9x9-inch or 11x7-inch glass baking dish
  • Coffee grinder, blender, or food processor
  • Pastry brush
  • Mixing bowls
  • Gallon-size zip-top freezer bag (optional)
  • Whisk
  • Cooling rack

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Oven and Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F and arrange a rack in the middle. Coat your glass baking dish with butter.

  2. Make the Fruit Filling: In a medium bowl, whisk together sugar and cornstarch until lump-free. Add the chopped apples and lemon juice, toss gently to coat, then transfer to the prepared baking dish.

  3. Create Oat Flour: Process 1 cup of the oats until it resembles flour, about 3 minutes. Transfer to a large bowl.

  4. Assemble the Crisp Topping: To the oat flour, add the remaining 1 cup of oats, brown sugar, and salt; stir to combine. Drizzle in melted butter and vanilla, stirring until the mixture clumps together.

  5. Top and Bake: Evenly distribute the crisp topping over the apples, keeping the clumps intact. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, until the topping is golden and the apple juices bubble.

  6. Cool and Serve: Let the apple crisp cool for at least 15 minutes before serving. For transport, allow it to cool completely to set the filling.

Serving Suggestions: This Gluten-Free Apple Crisp is best enjoyed warm, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for the ultimate autumnal treat. It’s a versatile dessert that’s as fitting for a casual family dinner as it is for a festive holiday table.

The Joy of Baking with Apples: Elevating Your Gluten-Free Apple Crisp

Baking with apples offers a universe of possibilities, especially when the air turns crisp and the leaves start to fall. Our Gluten-Free Apple Crisp not only celebrates the essence of fall but also brings a smile to those who might otherwise have to pass on dessert due to gluten sensitivities. Here are some tips and variations to make your apple crisp truly unforgettable:

  • Choosing the Right Apples: The secret to a perfect apple crisp lies in the selection of apples. Mixing varieties can add depth to the flavor profile. Consider combining tart Granny Smiths with sweeter Honeycrisps or Galas for a balanced taste. The diversity in apple textures will also contribute to a more interesting mouthfeel, with some apples offering a firmer bite amidst the tender filling.
  • Experimenting with Flavors: While our recipe provides a classic foundation, don’t be afraid to experiment with additional spices. A pinch of allspice or cardamom can introduce a new layer of warmth and complexity to the dish. For a more aromatic experience, consider adding orange zest to the filling or a dash of almond extract to the topping.
  • Adding Texture and Nutrients: For those looking to add a nutritional punch or an extra textural element, consider sprinkling in some chia seeds, flaxseeds, or chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts into the oat mixture. These additions not only enhance the nutritional value with healthy fats and fiber but also provide a satisfying crunch that complements the soft baked apples.

Serving in Style

Presentation matters, especially when you’re sharing your culinary creations with loved ones. Serve your Gluten-Free Apple Crisp in individual ramekins for a personal touch, or present it in a beautiful pie dish for family-style servings. Accompany it with homemade whipped cream flavored with cinnamon or maple syrup for an extra indulgent experience.

Sharing the Love

Gluten-Free Apple Crisp is more than just a dessert; it’s a gesture of inclusivity and care. Sharing a gluten-free option ensures everyone can indulge in the joy of dessert without hesitation. Consider baking an extra batch to share with neighbors, friends, or local community centers, spreading the warmth and comfort that only a homemade treat can bring.

Embrace the autumn season with open arms and a warm oven. This Gluten-Free Apple Crisp is not just a recipe but an invitation to create, experiment, and share the rich, comforting flavors of fall with everyone around your table.

Nutrition Facts

  • Servings Per Recipe: 8
  • Calories: 300

% Daily Value

  • Total Fat: 14g (18% DV)
  • Saturated Fat: 7.4g (37% DV)
  • Cholesterol: 31mg (10% DV)
  • Sodium: 2425mg (105% DV)
  • Total Carbohydrates: 42.4g (15% DV)
  • Dietary Fiber: 4g (14% DV)
  • Total Sugars: 21.6g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Vitamin D: 4mcg (20% DV)
  • Calcium: 8mg (1% DV)
  • iron: 2mg (11% DV)
  • Potassium: 69mg (1% DV)

Note: The “% Daily Value” (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Recipe analyzed by verywell.