Warm Gluten-Free Apple Crisp with Cinnamon Streusel

Why You’ll Love This Gluten-Free Apple Crisp

Craving a comforting dessert without the fuss of a pie? This gluten-free apple crisp is the perfect solution! Imagine warm, tender apples baked in a spiced cinnamon and brown sugar sauce, topped with a buttery, crumbly oat mixture that’s naturally gluten-free. It’s so easy to make, requiring just one dish and simple ingredients. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel for an extra special treat. If you’re in the mood for another delicious fruit-based dessert, why not try our Gluten-Free Lemon Bars? It’s another fantastic option for a quick and satisfying dessert.

The Be Gluten-Free Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free BAKING Cookbook

The Be Gluten-Free Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free BAKING Cookbook

Discover the joy of baking again with 200 delicious gluten-free and dairy-free recipes! From everyday bread to celebration cakes that everyone will love.

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One of the best things about this recipe is that no one will ever guess it’s gluten-free! By simply swapping traditional flour for a gluten-free all-purpose blend and using certified gluten-free oats, you can create a dessert that’s just as delicious as the original. The combination of apples, brown sugar, butter, and vanilla extract creates a sweet and gooey filling that bubbles up around the crisp edges. If you’re looking for more ways to use gluten-free flour, check out our Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Cookies recipe – a simple and satisfying treat that everyone will love.

This warmly spiced apple crisp tastes like autumn in every bite—making it the perfect dessert for a cozy evening, especially after a day of apple picking. And for another cozy treat, don’t miss our Gluten-Free Cinnamon Swirl Coffee Cake. It’s perfect for breakfast or dessert!

How to Make Gluten-Free Apple Crisp: A Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these simple steps to create a delicious gluten-free apple crisp that everyone will love!

Step 1: Prepare and Preheat

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease an 8×8 inch baking dish with gluten-free non-stick cooking spray. Coconut oil spray works great!

Step 2: Make the Gluten-Free Crumble Topping

In a medium-sized bowl, combine the following ingredients:

  • ½ cup gluten-free all-purpose flour (with xanthan gum)
  • ½ cup gluten-free quick oats
  • ½ cup packed light brown sugar
  • ½ teaspoon gluten-free baking powder
  • ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ⅛ teaspoon salt
  • ⅓ cup cold butter, diced (for dairy-free/vegan, use a plant-based butter alternative)

Using a fork or pastry blender, mix the ingredients together until the mixture resembles coarse, chunky crumbs. Place the bowl in the refrigerator while you prepare the apple filling.

Step 3: Prepare the Apple Filling

In a large bowl, combine the following ingredients:

  • 4 cups peeled and chopped apples (see notes above for best apple varieties)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 3 tablespoons milk (for dairy-free/vegan, use unsweetened almond milk)
  • 3 tablespoons melted butter (for dairy-free/vegan, use a plant-based butter alternative)
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • ¼ cup packed light brown sugar
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 2 tablespoons gluten-free all-purpose flour (with xanthan gum)
  • ⅛ teaspoon salt

Stir until all the ingredients are evenly combined and the apples are well coated.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Pour the apple mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out in an even layer.

Evenly sprinkle the chilled crumble topping over the apple filling.

Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apple filling is bubbly.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Remove the apple crisp from the oven and let it cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the filling to set slightly.

Enjoy warm, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce!

Step 6: Store Leftovers

Store any leftover apple crisp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

For longer storage, you can freeze the apple crisp for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Step 7: Reheat

To reheat, microwave individual portions for a short time. Alternatively, bake the apple crisp in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through.

Important Notes for Gluten-Free Baking:

Remember that not all gluten-free flours are the same. For best results, use a high-quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that contains xanthan gum. If your blend doesn’t contain xanthan gum, add ½ teaspoon per cup of flour.

Always check labels to ensure that all ingredients, especially oats and baking powder, are certified gluten-free.

Ingredients

Topping:

  • 1/2 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour with xanthan gum, I like Pillsbury gluten-free flour
  • 1/2 cup gluten-free quick oats
  • 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
  • 1/2 teaspoon gluten-free baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/8 teaspoon salt
  • 1/3 cup butter, diced into small cubes and softened, Dairy-free/vegan use Smart Balance butter.

Filling:

  • 4 cups apples, peeled and chopped
  • 3 tablespoons melted butter, Dairy-free/vegan use Smart Balance butter
  • 2 tablespoons gluten-free all-purpose flour with xanthan gum
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 3 tablespoons milk, Dairy-free/vegan use unsweetened almond milk.
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/8 teaspoon salt

Nutrition Information

Each serving of this Gluten-Free Apple Crisp offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures, while also providing some nutritional benefits. Here’s a closer look at what you can expect:

  • Calories: Approximately 362 kcal per serving
  • Carbohydrates: Around 53g, providing energy for your body.
  • Protein: About 3g, contributing to your daily protein intake.
  • Fat: Roughly 17g, including both saturated and unsaturated fats.
  • Fiber: 4g, aiding in digestion and promoting gut health.
  • Sugars: 36g, derived from natural apple sugars and added brown sugar.

Note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.

Gluten-Free Benefits:

This apple crisp is entirely gluten-free, making it a safe and delicious option for those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance. By using gluten-free flour and certified gluten-free oats, you can enjoy a classic dessert without worrying about digestive discomfort or other adverse reactions.

Tips and Variations

Flour Selection:

Gluten-free flours can vary significantly. For best results, use a high-quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that contains xanthan gum, like the recommended Pillsbury gluten-free flour. Xanthan gum helps to bind the ingredients and provides a texture similar to that of traditional wheat-based recipes. If your blend doesn’t contain xanthan gum, add ½ teaspoon per cup of flour.

Measuring Flour:

To ensure accurate results, use the “spoon and level” method when measuring gluten-free flour. This involves spooning the flour into a measuring cup and leveling it off with a knife, preventing over-compaction and ensuring you use the correct amount.

Oat Considerations:

While oats are naturally gluten-free, cross-contamination can occur during processing. Always use certified gluten-free oats to avoid any potential gluten exposure. Quick oats and rolled oats both work well in this recipe.

Dairy-Free and Vegan Options:

This recipe can easily be adapted to be dairy-free and vegan. Simply substitute the butter with a plant-based butter alternative, such as Smart Balance, and use unsweetened almond milk in place of regular milk. These substitutions will not significantly alter the taste or texture of the apple crisp.

Additional Tips:

  • Apple Peel: For the best texture, peel the apples before chopping. Apple skins don’t break down well during baking and can add an unwanted texture to the filling.
  • Adding Nuts and Fruits: Feel free to customize your apple crisp by adding nuts, raisins, or cranberries. You can also experiment with different types of fruit, such as pears, peaches, or blueberries.
  • Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the apple crisp ahead of time by adding an extra teaspoon of lemon juice to the filling and storing the crumble topping separately. Assemble and bake when ready to serve.

Storage Instructions:

Store leftover gluten-free apple crisp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, portion it into individual servings and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Essential Equipment for This Recipe

To prepare this delicious recipe, you’ll need the following kitchen tools:

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