This gluten free apple crisp will become your new favorite fall dessert. Sarah discovered this recipe three years ago when her daughter was diagnosed with celiac disease. She needed something that tasted just like grandma’s traditional apple crisp but without the gluten.
This healthy apple crisp combines tender, cinnamon-spiced apples with a golden, crunchy topping. The best part? Nobody will guess it’s gluten-free. This easy apple crisp recipe takes just 15 minutes to prep and fills your kitchen with incredible aromas.
You can make this apple crisp dairy free and even create no sugar apple crisp variations. It’s perfect for family gatherings, potluck dinners, or cozy weekend treats. This homemade apple crisp proves that gluten-free desserts can be just as delicious as traditional ones.
Table of Contents
Ingredients

For the Apple Filling:
- 8 large apples, peeled and sliced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work great)
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch or arrowroot powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
For the Gf Apple Crisp Topping:
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats (certified gluten-free)
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- 1/4 cup coconut flour
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
- 1/3 cup coconut oil, melted (or butter if not dairy-free)
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
This flourless apple crisp uses almond flour instead of regular wheat flour. The oats add the perfect crunch while keeping everything gluten-free.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Kitchen
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with coconut oil or butter.
Step 2: Make the Apple Filling
Peel and slice your apples into thin wedges. Mix them with maple syrup, lemon juice, cornstarch, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt in a large bowl. The lemon juice prevents browning and adds brightness to your green apple crisp recipe.

Step 3: Create the Gluten Free Apple Crumble Topping
In a separate bowl, combine oats, almond flour, coconut flour, chopped nuts, melted coconut oil, maple syrup, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt. Mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Step 4: Assemble Your Best Apple Crisp Recipe Ever
Spread the spiced apples evenly in your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the crumb topping over the apples, covering them completely.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 40-45 minutes until the topping is golden brown and the apples are tender. The juices should be bubbling around the edges.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Let your healthy easy apple crisp cool for 10 minutes before serving. This helps the filling set slightly.

Pro Tips and Variations
Apple Crisp Without Butter Tips:
Use melted coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free version. You can also try avocado oil for a neutral flavor.
Personal Apple Crisp Portions:
Divide the recipe among 6-8 individual ramekins. Reduce baking time to 25-30 minutes for personal apple crisp servings.
Gluten Free Sugar Free Apple Crisp:
Replace maple syrup with stevia or monk fruit sweetener. Start with 1/4 cup and adjust to taste.
Vegan Gluten Free Apple Crisp Recipe:
This recipe is already vegan if you use coconut oil. Make sure your oats are certified vegan too.
Apple Varieties:
- Granny Smith: Tart and holds shape well
- Honeycrisp: Sweet with good texture
- Braeburn: Balanced sweet-tart flavor
- Mix varieties for complex flavor
Storage Tips:
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes to restore crispiness.
Make-Ahead Option:
Assemble the crisp up to 2 days ahead. Cover and refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve.
Serving Suggestions
This gluten free apple dessert tastes amazing on its own, but here are some delicious serving ideas:
Classic Pairings:
- Vanilla ice cream or frozen yogurt
- Fresh whipped cream
- Caramel or maple syrup drizzle
Healthier Apple Desserts Options:
- Greek yogurt with a drizzle of honey
- Coconut whipped cream
- A glass of cold almond milk
Breakfast Twist:
Serve leftover apple crisp for breakfast with a dollop of Greek yogurt. It’s like having apple pie for breakfast but healthier.
Holiday Presentations:
Top with toasted coconut flakes, extra chopped nuts, or a sprinkle of sea salt for elegant dinner party servings.
Conclusion
This best apple crisp recipe proves that gluten-free desserts can be every bit as delicious as traditional ones. The combination of tender apples and crunchy topping creates the perfect texture contrast.
Whether you’re making this dairy free apple crisp for someone with dietary restrictions or just want a healthy apple crisp option, this recipe delivers. It’s become a staple in many kitchens because it’s simple, customizable, and absolutely delicious.
The beauty of this gf apple crisp recipe lies in its versatility. You can adapt it to be vegan, sugar-free, or nut-free based on your needs. Most importantly, it brings families together around the table with its comforting, familiar flavors.
FAQs
Can I make this flourless apple crisp ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the crisp up to 2 days in advance. Cover and refrigerate, then bake when ready. You may need to add 5-10 extra minutes to the baking time.
What’s the best apple variety for gluten free apple recipes?
Granny Smith apples are ideal because they hold their shape and provide tartness. Honeycrisp and Braeburn also work well. Avoid Red Delicious as they become mushy.
How do I know if my oats are truly gluten-free?
Look for “certified gluten-free” on the package. Regular oats can be cross-contaminated with wheat during processing.
Can I freeze this healthy easy apple crisp?
Yes! Freeze the baked crisp for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat at 350°F for 15-20 minutes.
Why is my topping not getting crispy?
Make sure your oven is fully preheated and don’t overbake the bottom. If the topping browns too quickly, cover with foil for the last 10-15 minutes.
Can I substitute other fruits in this gluten free apple crumble?
Absolutely! Try pears, peaches, or a mix of berries. Adjust the sweetener based on the fruit’s natural sweetness.
How do I make no sugar apple crisp?
Replace maple syrup with stevia, monk fruit, or erythritol. Start with smaller amounts and taste-test, as these sweeteners are much stronger than maple syrup.
Is this recipe suitable for vegan apple crisp recipe with oats?
Yes! Use coconut oil instead of butter and ensure your oats are certified vegan. This makes it perfect for plant-based diets.

Gluten-Free Apple Crisp
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with butter or cooking spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced apples, lemon juice, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and gluten-free flour. Toss until the apples are evenly coated. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
- In another bowl, prepare the topping by mixing the oats, gluten-free flour, brown sugar, and salt. Add the cold butter cubes and cut them into the mixture using a pastry cutter or your fingers until it forms a crumbly texture.
- Sprinkle the oat mixture evenly over the apples in the baking dish.
- Bake for 40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are bubbling.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for at least 10 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream if desired.
Notes
- Calories: 285
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 75mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 45g
- Dietary Fiber: 7g
- Sugars: 32g
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- Protein: 5g