Nutrition Facts
Servings 8
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 230kcal
There's something undeniably inviting about the aroma of baking apples filling your kitchen, don’t you think? When I think about gatherings with friends and family, an apple crisp neatly gets everyone’s attention while also being the perfect balance of comfort and deliciousness. Imagine that warm, golden-brown topping with a scoop of creamy coconut whipped cream on the side. It’s a true crowd-pleaser and the best part? You can whip it together quickly, meaning more time to spend with your loved ones!
Today, we’re diving into a delightful dairy-free apple crisp that will make your taste buds dance. This recipe brings a twist to the traditional dish by ditching dairy, yet staying true to that beloved comforting flavor. With its layers of sweet and tart apples beneath a crunchy topping, this dish is not just for fall; it’s a dessert that you can enjoy at any time of year!
Easy Gluten Free Dairy Brownies Recipe
A dairy-free apple crisp is a dessert made primarily from baked apples, sweetened with just enough sugar and spices, and topped with a crunchy mixture. This version replaces any dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives, making it perfect for those who are lactose intolerant or following a dairy-free lifestyle. With the buttery, crumbly topping made from oats, nuts, and a touch of coconut oil, this dessert gives you all the comforting vibes without any dairy.
The flavor profile of this dairy-free apple crisp is a delightful marriage of sweet and slightly tart notes from the apples, layered with warm, comforting spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. The topping delivers satisfying crunch combined with the nuttiness of the pecans and oats, making every bite a harmonious blend of textures. The sweetness, thanks to coconut sugar and the natural sugars from the apples, feels well-rounded and satisfying without overwhelming your palate.
You’ll love this recipe because it’s endlessly adaptable. You can play around with different types of apples or adjust the sweetness based on your preferences. Plus, it’s simple to make, can be prepped ahead of time, and smells heavenly while it’s baking. Whether you’re pleasing a crowd or having a quiet evening at home, this dessert showcases autumn's best flavors, delivering comfort in every spoonful.
Here's what you'll need to make this delicious dairy-free apple crisp:
- 8 medium-large apples (a mix of tart like Granny Smith and sweet such as Honeycrisp)
- Juice of 1 lemon (yielding about 2 tablespoons)
- 2/3 cup coconut sugar (or substitute with organic cane sugar)
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 3 tablespoons arrowroot starch or cornstarch (for thickening)
- 1/4 cup fresh apple juice (or use water)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger (consider fresh for extra kick)
- 1 pinch freshly grated nutmeg (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for an extra flavor boost)
- 1 cup gluten-free rolled oats
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (unbleached)
- 1/2 cup coconut sugar (can replace with organic cane sugar)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (or use muscovado for deeper flavor)
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup melted coconut oil (or a mix of coconut and olive oil)
Making this apple crisp is straightforward and fun! You'll be layering seasoned apples and topping them with a crunchy mixture, then letting the oven do its work. Let’s break it down step-by-step so you can create this delicious dessert.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (about 176°C). At this temperature, we’ll achieve that golden crispy topping while ensuring the apples get tender without burning.
Start by peeling your apples—about 8 medium-large ones will do just fine. Cut them into quarters, remove the cores, and then carefully slice them thinly with a paring knife. This will help them cook evenly and create a lovely texture.
Place your sliced apples into a large mixing bowl. Add the lemon juice, ensuring the apples are evenly coated to prevent browning. Toss in the coconut sugar, cinnamon, arrowroot starch (or cornstarch for thickening), and fresh apple juice. If you're using ginger and a pinch of nutmeg, now's the time to add them. Give it all a gentle toss until the apples are well coated before transferring the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish (or a similar-sized dish).
Now, let's whip up the topping. Rinse your mixing bowl and combine the rolled oats, almond flour, all-purpose flour, coconut sugar, brown sugar, chopped pecans, sea salt, and ground cinnamon. Mixing these dry ingredients will create a rich flavor base. Pour in your melted coconut oil (or olive oil if you’re using that) and stir everything together, using your fingers to break down any sugar clumps until the mixture is crumbly.
Sprinkle the topping evenly over the apple mixture, ensuring it covers the apples completely. This step is essential for creating that crunchy texture.
Slip the baking dish into your preheated oven. Bake for about 50 minutes to an hour, monitoring closely towards the end. You’ll want the filling to bubble around the edges and the topping to reach a deep golden brown. The apples should be very fork-tender, especially in the dish's center.
Once your apple crisp is out of the oven, let it rest for at least 30 minutes. This cooling time allows the juices to settle. While it’s still warm and tempting, I recommend serving it with coconut whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean coconut ice cream for an extra treat.
- Choose the right apples: Mixing tart and sweet apples offers depth to the flavor. Go with Granny Smith for tartness and Honeycrisp for sweetness.
- Allow to cool: Resting the apple crisp helps the filling set slightly, so it’s easier to serve and tastes better.
- Customize the spices: If you love warmth in desserts, feel free to experiment with other spices like cardamom or allspice.
- Double the batch: If you have a crowd to feed (or you want leftovers), it’s easy to double the recipe and use a larger pan.
- Nut-free option: You can skip the pecans if you need a nut-free dessert, or use seeds like sunflower seeds for crunch.
To store your dairy-free apple crisp, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, freeze it for up to a month. Just remember to reheat it in a warm oven at 350°F (176°C) until heated through.
This dairy-free apple crisp typically packs in a balance of indulgence and nutrition with ingredients like apples, oats, and nuts. On average, each serving is around 230 calories and has a good amount of fiber, thanks to the fruit and oats, making it a satisfying treat that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Here are a few delightful ways to enjoy your apple crisp:
- With coconut whipped cream: An easy dairy-free alternative that adds a light and fluffy layer of sweetness.
- Vanilla bean coconut ice cream: The creaminess of ice cream contrasts beautifully with the crisp topping.
- Drizzle of maple syrup: For those extra sweet tooth moments, a drizzle of pure maple syrup elevates the experience.
- Served in a bowl with nuts: Add a handful of toasted walnuts or almonds on top of your servings for added crunch.
- Pair with coffee or tea: Enjoy your slice with a hot cup of your favorite brew for a cozy dessert experience.
- Brown sugar alternative: Coconut sugar can be swapped with any organic cane sugar if you prefer.
- Nut options: If you’re allergic to nuts, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds can give you a similar crunch.
- Flour substitute: Use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free twist.
- Sweetener swap: Honey can be used instead of coconut sugar for a different sweetness profile but keep in mind it won't make the dish vegan.
- Coconut oil: Olive oil can replace coconut oil if you prefer a different flavor or do not have coconut oil on hand.
1. Can I use frozen apples for this recipe?
Yes, frozen apples can work, but thaw and drain any excess liquid to prevent a soggy crisp.
2. Is it necessary to peel the apples?
While peeling is traditional, you could leave the skins on for extra fiber and texture if you prefer.
3. How can I make this apple crisp vegan?
This recipe is naturally dairy-free and can easily be made vegan by ensuring all sweeteners and toppings are plant-based.
4. Can I substitute the oats?
You can use other grains like quinoa flakes or gluten-free flour blends, although this may change the texture.
5. How can I make this recipe sugar-free?
To make it sugar-free, consider using monk fruit sweetener or stevia instead of coconut sugar or brown sugar.
There you have it—a family-friendly, dairy-free apple crisp that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you bake it for a gathering, a cozy night in, or just to treat yourself, it’s sure to warm your heart and satisfy your sweet tooth. With easy adaptations and a delectable taste, you’ll want to make this recipe time and time again. So grab those apples and start baking—deliciousness awaits!
Today, we’re diving into a delightful dairy-free apple crisp that will make your taste buds dance. This recipe brings a twist to the traditional dish by ditching dairy, yet staying true to that beloved comforting flavor. With its layers of sweet and tart apples beneath a crunchy topping, this dish is not just for fall; it’s a dessert that you can enjoy at any time of year!
Servings 8
- Choose the right apples: Mixing tart and sweet apples offers depth to the flavor. Go with Granny Smith for tartness and Honeycrisp for sweetness.
- Allow to cool: Resting the apple crisp helps the filling set slightly, so it’s easier to serve and tastes better.
- Customize the spices: If you love warmth in desserts, feel free to experiment with other spices like cardamom or allspice.
- Double the batch: If you have a crowd to feed (or you want leftovers), it’s easy to double the recipe and use a larger pan.
- Nut-free option: You can skip the pecans if you need a nut-free dessert, or use seeds like sunflower seeds for crunch.
Barbara Brito is a Florida-based registered dietitian and the creator of Great Meal Recipes, where she shares nutritious, delicious, and easy-to-make meals for home cooks of all skill levels. With a passion for creating wholesome dishes that don’t sacrifice flavor, Barbara draws inspiration from her love of family, food, and simple cooking. Her blog focuses on accessible recipes that bring joy and balance to the kitchen.