When it comes to comforting fall desserts, few can compare to the warm, sweet flavors of apple crisp. However, not everyone enjoys or can eat oats, a common ingredient in traditional crisp toppings. This apple crisp recipe without oats gives you all the classic taste and texture without the oats, making it a perfect option for those with dietary restrictions or simply a preference for an oat-free version.
This recipe creates a golden, buttery topping that’s deliciously crispy, perfectly complementing the tender, spiced apples underneath. Whether you’re preparing this dessert for a family dinner or a special occasion, it’s guaranteed to impress.
If you love the idea of warm desserts like this one, you might also want to try our Banana Bread Recipe with Cake Mix for another quick, easy, and comforting recipe.
Why Make Apple Crisp Without Oats?
There are several reasons why you might choose to make apple crisp without oats:
- Dietary Preferences: Some people are allergic to oats or prefer the texture of an oat-free topping.
- Texture Difference: A topping made without oats has a finer, more delicate crunch, perfect for those who enjoy a smoother crisp.
- Versatility: This recipe can easily be adapted to gluten-free, dairy-free, or nut-free diets by swapping out certain ingredients.
For another delicious dessert option, you might also enjoy our Philadelphia Cheesecake Chocolate Crust with Raspberry Swirl, which pairs the rich flavors of chocolate and cheesecake with a fruity twist.
Ingredients for Apple Crisp Without Oats
Here’s what you’ll need for a delicious, oat-free apple crisp:
For the Apple Filling:
- 6-7 apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji work best)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (to prevent browning)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (helps thicken the filling)
For the Topping:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (substitute with almond or coconut flour for gluten-free)
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- Optional: Chopped nuts (pecans or almonds) for extra crunch
If you’re looking for more gluten-free options, explore our Gluten-Free Dessert Recipes, which includes a wide range of tasty treats.
Step-by-Step Apple Crisp Recipe Without Oats
Step 1: Prepare the Apples
Start by washing, peeling, and coring the apples. Slice them into even, thin slices—about ¼ inch thick. Toss the apple slices with lemon juice, sugar, cinnamon, and cornstarch to create the filling. The cornstarch helps thicken the juices released by the apples while baking.
Step 2: Make the Topping
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and cinnamon. Add the cold, cubed butter and use your hands or a pastry cutter to blend everything together until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This topping will provide the perfect buttery crispness.
For an extra crunchy topping, consider adding chopped pecans or almonds to the mixture. If you prefer a nut-free version, pumpkin or sunflower seeds can also work well as a substitute.
Step 3: Assemble the Crisp
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish. Spread the apple mixture evenly across the bottom. Sprinkle the crumble topping over the apples, making sure it’s evenly distributed.
Step 4: Bake the Crisp
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are bubbling. The topping should be crispy, while the apples should be tender but not mushy.
Step 5: Serve and Store
Let the apple crisp cool for 10 minutes before serving. It’s best enjoyed warm, topped with vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to keep the topping crispy.
Ingredient Variations
There are many ways to adapt this recipe to suit different dietary needs and preferences:
1. Gluten-Free Apple Crisp
- Use almond flour or coconut flour instead of all-purpose flour to make this recipe gluten-free. Almond flour adds a rich, nutty flavor that pairs well with the apples.
2. Dairy-Free Apple Crisp
- Swap the butter for coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative to make this recipe dairy-free.
3. Nut-Free Apple Crisp
- Skip the nuts or substitute them with seeds, like sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds, for a nut-free version.
For those interested in other gluten-free dessert ideas, check out this Gluten-Free Sugar Cookie Recipe for an easy, sweet treat.
Nutritional Information and Healthier Options
Here’s a quick look at the nutritional breakdown of this apple crisp recipe:
- Calories: 300-350 per serving (depending on ingredients)
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 2g
- Fiber: 4g (from the apples)
Healthier Substitutions:
- Reduce sugar: Use a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup instead of white or brown sugar to lower the sugar content.
- Lower the fat: Replace some or all of the butter with a healthier fat like coconut oil or avocado oil.
- Boost fiber: Use apples with the skin on, or add flaxseeds to the topping to increase the fiber content.
For another healthy dessert, check out our Homemade Apple Jam Recipe, which is perfect for spreading on toast or mixing into yogurt.
Popular Apple Crisp Variations
Looking for ways to switch things up? Here are some creative ideas for variations on the classic apple crisp:
1. Caramel Apple Crisp
- Add a drizzle of caramel sauce over the top of the baked crisp for a decadent finish. Here’s a great recipe on How to Make Homemade Caramel Sauce
2. Spiced Apple Crisp
- Try adding extra spices like allspice, ginger, or cloves to the filling for a warming, spiced twist.
3. Berry and Apple Crisp
- Mix in fresh berries like blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries with the apples for a fruity, tangy variation. The tartness of the berries complements the sweet apples perfectly.
4. Maple Apple Crisp
- Substitute some of the sugar with maple syrup to give the crisp a rich, natural sweetness. Maple syrup adds a lovely caramelized flavor to the dish.
FAQs About Apple Crisp Without Oats
1. What’s the difference between apple crisp and apple crumble?
An apple crisp usually contains oats in the topping, while an apple crumble does not. In this recipe, the crisp topping is made with flour, butter, and sugar, giving it a finer, more delicate crunch without oats.
2. Can I make apple crisp ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the crisp in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to serve, simply pop it in the oven and bake as directed.
3. What can I use instead of oats in apple crisp?
You can use a combination of flour, butter, and sugar to create a crisp topping without oats. Nuts or seeds can also be added for extra texture.
4. How do I keep my apple crisp topping crispy?
Use cold butter and avoid overmixing the topping ingredients. Baking the crisp at the correct temperature (350°F) and allowing it to cool for a few minutes before serving will also help the topping stay crispy.
5. How long does apple crisp last?
Stored in an airtight container, apple crisp will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator. To reheat, bake in the oven for 10-15 minutes at 350°F to maintain its crisp topping.
Conclusion
This apple crisp recipe without oats is a fantastic, adaptable dessert that offers all the warmth and sweetness of a classic apple crisp without the oats. Whether you’re making it for a holiday gathering or a simple family dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Plus, it’s easy to customize to fit various dietary needs, so everyone can enjoy a slice of this delicious fall treat.
If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to try our Tater Tots Recipe in Air Fryer for another easy and tasty dish that’s perfect for sharing.