How to Make a Delicious Gluten-Free Apple Crisp with Oat Topping

Simple Summary

This Gluten-Free Apple Crisp with Oat Topping is a comforting dessert that combines the warmth of cinnamon-spiced apples with a crunchy, golden oat crumble. It's perfect for those avoiding gluten but craving a classic fall treat.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Servings: 8
• Difficulty: Beginner

Ingredients

• 6 large apples (mix of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and sliced
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

For the topping:

• 1 cup gluten-free rolled oats
• 1/2 cup almond flour
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.

2. In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, granulated sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Toss until the apples are evenly coated. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.

3. In another bowl, mix together the gluten-free rolled oats, almond flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt for the topping.

4. Add the cold, cubed butter to the oat mixture. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to work the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

5. Stir in the chopped pecans if using.

6. Sprinkle the topping evenly over the apple mixture in the baking dish.

7. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are tender when pierced with a fork.

8. Remove from the oven and let cool for 15 minutes before serving.

Chef's Notes

• For a firmer texture, use all Granny Smith apples. For a sweeter crisp, use all Honeycrisp or add more sugar to taste.
• Ensure your oats are certified gluten-free if you have celiac disease or severe gluten sensitivity.
• To make this dairy-free, substitute the butter with coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative.
• Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15 minutes to restore crispness.

Nutritional Info

Per serving (approximate):

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 3g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sugar: 30g
• Fat: 16g
• Vitamin C: 8% of Daily Value
• Iron: 6% of Daily Value

This dessert is a good source of dietary fiber and contains antioxidants from the apples. The oats provide heart-healthy beta-glucans.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a classic pairing.
• For a healthier option, top with Greek yogurt and a drizzle of honey.
• Enjoy as a special breakfast treat with a cup of coffee or chai tea.
• Present in individual ramekins for an elegant dinner party dessert.
• Pair with a glass of mulled cider for the ultimate fall comfort experience.