Embracing Fall: The Joy of Apple Season

As the intense heat of summer slowly begins to fade, giving way to shorter days and cooler evenings, and the vibrant greens and yellows of nature transition into the warm, earthy tones of ochres and auburns, we know that fall is truly upon us. It’s a season of transformation, comfort, and, most importantly for food lovers, a bounty of seasonal produce.

Among all the wonderful things that represent autumn – from pumpkin spice to cozy sweaters – **apples** hold a particularly significant place in this magical season. Apple orchards become vibrant hubs of activity, and the crisp, sweet-tart taste of freshly picked apples is simply unbeatable. It’s a time for gathering, celebrating, and, of course, baking!

Each fall, our kitchen becomes a hub for apple-centric creations. We make plenty of beloved apple recipes, starting with warm homemade applesauce, which is incredibly simple and satisfying. We also love refreshing dishes like a fresh apple and fennel salad for a lighter touch. For those classic dessert cravings, a delightful apple crumble or a traditional apple pie are always on the menu. There’s truly no end to the versatility of this beloved fruit.

Without a doubt, apples are definitely the centerpiece during the fall season, and this **gluten-free apple crisp** recipe is designed to help you make the most of this delicious harvest.

Apple Crisp: The Quintessential Fall Dessert

Here at Dish by Dish, we’ve developed a true passion for fruit crisps. From the juicy gluten-free peach crisp of summer to the vibrant blueberry crisp and the delightful mixed berry crisp, these easy-to-make desserts have become staples in our kitchen. And as soon as fall arrives, it’s only natural that our focus turns to the star of the season: apples.

So, we absolutely couldn’t forget to create a glorious **apple crisp** recipe that captures the essence of autumn. This particular rendition is designed to help you use up all the abundant apple bounty that this fall season is about to generously provide. Whether you’ve just come back from an apple-picking adventure or simply stocked up at your local market, this **dairy-free and vegan apple crisp** is the perfect way to transform those fresh apples into a truly irresistible dessert that everyone can enjoy.

Why This Easy Gluten-Free Apple Crisp Recipe is a Must-Try:

This **gluten-free apple crisp** isn’t just another dessert; it’s a carefully crafted recipe designed for maximum flavor and minimal fuss, while catering to specific dietary needs. Here’s why you’ll absolutely love making and eating this incredible crisp:

• Simple, Accessible Ingredients: You won’t need to hunt for exotic items or specialist products. The ingredients required for this easy **gluten-free apple crisp recipe** are readily available at any local grocery store. We believe that delicious food shouldn’t be complicated, and this recipe truly embodies that philosophy – nothing fancy required, just wholesome, everyday staples.
• Effortlessly Easy to Make: We understand that your time is valuable. That’s why this recipe boasts an incredibly fast and simple preparation process. The hands-on time for preparing both the luscious apple filling and the crunchy oat topping is a mere 15 minutes! After a quick assembly, you simply let your oven do the rest of the work, filling your home with an irresistible aroma and delivering a perfect dessert with minimal effort. It’s ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions.
• 100% Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, and Vegan: This is where our **easy apple crisp** truly shines. We’ve made sure that this dessert is completely gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan. This means that whether you have Celiac disease, gluten or lactose intolerances, or simply choose to follow a gluten-free or plant-based diet, you can indulge in this delightful apple crisp without any worries or issues. It’s a dessert that brings everyone together, ensuring no one misses out on the seasonal joy.
• Perfect Balance of Flavors and Textures: The combination of tender, caramelized apples with the sweet, spiced, and crunchy oat topping creates a symphony of textures and flavors in every bite. The tartness of the apples perfectly complements the sweetness of the crisp, making for a truly balanced and satisfying dessert experience.
• Adaptable to Your Preferences: While we offer specific recommendations, this recipe is incredibly forgiving and adaptable. You can easily adjust the type of apples, the amount of sugar, or even the spices to suit your personal taste, making it truly *your* perfect **homemade apple crisp**.

Gather Your Ingredients for This Simple Apple Crisp

One of the best aspects of this **easy gluten-free apple crisp** is that it relies on a handful of pantry staples and fresh ingredients that are easy to find. Before you dive into baking, let’s take a quick look at what you’ll need to create this comforting dessert.

Here’s a visual overview of the key ingredients required for this **easy gluten-free apple crisp recipe**. Notice how straightforward they are – no obscure items here, just pure deliciousness!

(For exact measurements and a detailed list, please scroll down to the **printable recipe card** at the very bottom of this post.)

A few highlights on the ingredients:

• **Fresh Apples:** The heart of our crisp! We’ll talk more about choosing the best types below.
• **Sugars:** A combination to achieve that perfect balance of sweetness and caramelization.
• **Warm Spices:** Cinnamon and nutmeg are the quintessential fall flavors that truly make this crisp shine.
• **Gluten-Free All-Purpose Flour:** Essential for the binding in the filling and the crispness of the topping. Ensure you choose a quality blend.
• **Gluten-Free Oats:** The star of our crunchy topping. Crucial for texture and confirming gluten-free status is key for sensitive individuals.
• **Dairy-Free Butter:** Our secret to keeping this crisp rich and satisfying, without any dairy.

Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating the incredible depth of flavor and texture that makes this **easy vegan apple crisp** so special.

Recipe Notes & Essential Substitutions for Your Perfect Apple Crisp:

We want this **gluten-free apple crisp** to be as versatile and adaptable as possible for your needs and preferences. Here are some detailed notes and common substitutions you can make, ensuring your crisp turns out perfectly every time.

• Fresh Apples: When it comes to apples, choice matters! I personally love using **Granny Smith apples** for their wonderful tartness, which provides a fantastic contrast to the sweet filling and topping. However, feel free to use your favorite sweet apples if you prefer, or a mix of both for a more complex flavor profile. Varieties like Honeycrisp, Fuji, Gala, or even Pink Lady are excellent choices. I didn’t peel my apples for this recipe, as the skin adds a lovely texture and nutritional fiber, but please feel free to peel them if you prefer a smoother filling. Just ensure they are sliced into thin, even pieces for consistent cooking.
• Sugar: For a rich and nuanced sweetness, I’ve opted for a mix of white sugar and dark brown sugar. The brown sugar adds a deep, molasses-like flavor that enhances the caramelized apples beautifully. However, you have many options! You may also use cane sugar, light brown sugar, or even coconut sugar for a slightly more caramel-like note. If you are diabetic, insulin-resistant, or simply looking to reduce sugar intake, I highly recommend using granulated monkfruit sweetener. This 1:1 sugar substitute has a zero glycemic index and will not raise your blood sugar, making it an excellent alternative for a **healthy apple crisp**.
• Spices: To truly capture those quintessential fall vibes and enhance the natural sweetness of the apples, I’ve included a harmonious blend of warm spices: ground cinnamon and ground nutmeg. These spices are classic pairings with apples and bring out their best qualities. If you enjoy a slightly more exotic and fragrant note, you may also add a pinch of ground cardamom – it pairs wonderfully with apples!
• Gluten-Free Flour: The choice of gluten-free flour is critical for the success of this **GF apple crisp recipe**. I strongly recommend using a good-quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that is composed of lighter flours and starches. Look for blends that primarily feature ingredients such as rice flour (white or brown), tapioca starch, corn starch, or potato starch. These blends provide a light texture and excellent binding without being heavy or gritty. I do NOT recommend using a gluten-free blend that is made up of heavier, bean-based flours (such as garbanzo bean flour or fava bean flour), as these can impart an undesirable flavor and dense texture to your crisp.
• Oats: For the delicious, crunchy topping, you can use either quick-cooking oats or rolled oats (also known as old-fashioned oats). Both will work well, though rolled oats tend to give a slightly chewier texture. **Crucially, if you have Celiac disease or are gluten-intolerant, it is absolutely essential to use certified gluten-free oats.** This is because conventional oats are often processed in facilities that also handle gluten-containing grains like wheat, barley, and rye, leading to cross-contamination. Certified gluten-free oats are processed in dedicated facilities to ensure they are free from gluten.
• Butter (Dairy-Free): To ensure this recipe remains **dairy-free and vegan**, I used unsalted dairy-free butter (often labeled as vegan butter). Brands like Miyoko’s Kitchen or Earth Balance work wonderfully and provide a rich, buttery flavor without any dairy. Alternatively, you can use coconut oil if you prefer. If opting for coconut oil, I recommend using refined coconut oil, as it has a more neutral flavor that won’t interfere with the apple and spice notes. Extra virgin coconut oil has a stronger coconut smell and taste, which might not be desirable for everyone in this specific dessert. If you are not lactose-intolerant or vegan, and prefer to use traditional butter, feel free to use regular unsalted butter instead.

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan

Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175°C). While the oven heats, lightly grease a small 6-inch cast iron skillet with a bit of dairy-free butter or a generous spray of nonstick cooking spray. If you don’t have a cast iron skillet, a small pie dish or a ramekin will work perfectly too.

2. Prepare the Flavorful Apple Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine your beautifully sliced apples. Add the white sugar, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, a pinch of salt, and the gluten-free all-purpose flour. Using a sturdy spoon or your clean hands, gently toss all the ingredients together until every single apple slice is completely coated. This step ensures that each bite of apple is infused with flavor and that the juices will thicken perfectly as it bakes. Set the bowl aside for a few minutes to allow the natural apple juices to mingle with the dry ingredients, creating a syrupy base.

3. Craft the Crunchy Oat Crumble Topping

Now for the irresistible topping! In a medium saucepan, melt the dairy-free butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the gluten-free all-purpose flour, certified gluten-free oats, a pinch of salt, and brown sugar. Mix thoroughly with a spoon or spatula until all the ingredients are well combined and form a crumbly mixture. This process starts to cook the oats slightly, which adds to the depth of flavor and helps create that desirable crispy texture.

4. Cook the Topping Until Golden

Continue stirring the crumble mixture every few minutes in the saucepan. You’ll notice it start to come together slightly as the butter incorporates, and the oats will begin to brown and smell deliciously nutty. This light pre-cooking step helps to ensure an even crisper topping once baked in the oven. Cook for about 3-5 minutes, or until the mixture is fragrant and lightly golden.

5. Assemble the Apple Filling in the Pan

Carefully transfer the delicious apple filling mixture to your prepared cast iron pan. Make sure to scrape all the accumulated juices and sugars from the bottom of the mixing bowl into the pan as well – these liquids will caramelize beautifully and create a rich, syrupy base for your crisp. Spread the apple mixture evenly across the bottom of the pan.

6. Add the Golden Crumble Topping

Once the apple filling is in place, evenly distribute the prepared oat crumble mixture on top of the apples. You can leave some of the caramelized apples slightly exposed to create a beautiful visual contrast and allow some of the apple juices to bubble up enticingly during baking. Don’t press the topping down too firmly; keep it loose for maximum crunch!

7. Bake to Golden Perfection

Place your assembled apple crisp into the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 25 to 30 minutes, or until the topping is a beautiful golden brown, the apples are tender and bubbling enthusiastically around the edges, and your kitchen smells absolutely divine. The exact baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven and the thickness of your apple slices.

8. Serve Warm and Savor Every Bite!

Once baked, let the **gluten-free apple crisp** cool for a few minutes to set slightly (though it’s utterly tempting to dig in immediately!). Serve this incredibly delicious crisp warm, perhaps with a generous scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream or a dollop of coconut whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence. A drizzle of homemade caramel sauce would also be absolutely divine. Enjoy every comforting, sweet, and crunchy bite!

Dish by Dish Tips & Tricks for the Best Gluten-Free Apple Crisp:

Here are some additional insights and pro-tips to help you make the absolute best **gluten-free apple crisp** every time. These suggestions will elevate your baking experience and ensure fantastic results!

• Choosing the Right Apples: As mentioned in the notes, while I love the tartness of Granny Smith apples, don’t limit yourself! A mix of sweet and tart apples often yields the most complex and delicious flavor. Consider combining Granny Smith with Honeycrisp, Fuji, Gala, or even Braeburn apples. For a single variety, any firm apple that holds its shape well during baking is a good choice.
• To Peel or Not to Peel? This is entirely a matter of personal preference. I prefer leaving the apple skins on as they add texture, a rustic charm, and extra fiber. However, if you or your family prefer a smoother filling, go ahead and peel the apples before slicing. Ensure your slices are consistent for even cooking, whether peeled or unpeeled.
• Swap Out Apples for Other Fruits: Not strictly an apple fan, or looking to try something new? This crisp recipe is incredibly versatile! Feel free to make this crisp by swapping out the apples for other seasonal fruits. Pears or quinces work wonderfully for a similar fall feel. In the summer, try stone fruits such as peaches, plums, or apricots, or even a mix of your favorite berries (like blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries). Adjust sugar slightly depending on the sweetness of your chosen fruit.
• No Cast Iron Skillet? No Problem! While a cast iron pan gives a lovely rustic presentation and excellent heat retention, it’s not essential. If you don’t own one, you can easily use a small pie dish, an oven-safe ceramic baking dish, or even individual ramekins to make this crisp instead. Just ensure your dish is oven-safe and sized appropriately for the amount of filling and topping.
• Achieving Extra Crispiness: For an even crispier topping, make sure your dairy-free butter is firm when you mix it into the dry ingredients for the crumble (if you’re not pre-cooking it on the stove). This creates larger crumbs that get crunchier. Also, ensure you don’t overcrowd your baking dish, allowing air to circulate around the topping.
• Serving Suggestions Beyond Ice Cream: While vanilla ice cream (dairy-free, of course!) is a classic pairing, consider other delicious options. A dollop of coconut whipped cream, a spoonful of dairy-free Greek yogurt, or even a drizzle of homemade vegan caramel sauce can take this dessert to the next level.

Common Questions About Gluten-Free Apple Crisp:

Got questions? We’ve got answers! Here are some frequently asked questions about making and storing this **easy gluten-free apple crisp**.

More Delicious Fall Recipes to Delight In:

If you’re loving the flavors of fall, we have plenty more **gluten-free and vegan recipes** to keep your kitchen cozy and delicious throughout the season. Don’t miss these other autumn favorites:

• Easy Homemade Applesauce (Gluten-Free, Vegan): Perfect for using up extra apples and a great base for many recipes.
• Apple Crumble (Gluten-Free, Vegan): A close cousin to apple crisp, equally comforting and satisfying.
• 20-Minute Cranberry Sauce (Gluten-Free, Vegan): A vibrant and tangy addition to any fall meal or holiday spread.
• Pear Custard Pie (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free): A delicate and flavorful pie that highlights the sweetness of pears.
• Gluten-Free Pumpkin Bread (Dairy-Free, Vegan): Moist, spiced, and perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack.
• Sweet Potato Casserole (Gluten-Free, Vegan): A classic side dish that doubles as a delightful dessert.

Even More Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free Desserts to Indulge In:

If your sweet tooth is still calling, explore our broader collection of desserts that cater to gluten-free and dairy-free lifestyles. You don’t have to sacrifice flavor for dietary needs!

P.S. If you try this incredible **gluten-free apple crisp recipe**, I’d be absolutely thrilled for you to leave a star rating below, and/or a review in the comment section further down the page. Your feedback is always incredibly valuable and appreciated! Be sure to check out my entire Recipe Index for all the delicious recipes on the blog. You can also follow me on Pinterest, Facebook or Instagram for daily inspiration and behind-the-scenes glimpses! Don’t forget to sign up for my Email List to get fresh, seasonal recipes delivered straight to your inbox each week!

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Gluten-Free Apple Crisp Recipe (Dairy-Free, Vegan)

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  Author: Felicia Lim
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  Total Time: 40 minutes
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  Yield: 2 servings
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  Diet: Gluten Free, Dairy Free, Vegan

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Description

In this easy gluten-free apple crisp, a glorious bed of caramelized apples is finished with a crunchy oat topping. This is the perfect dessert for fall or anytime you want a sweet treat! Dairy-free and vegan too.

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Ingredients

Units

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For the Apple Filling:

• 2 medium-sized granny smith apples, cored and cut into thin, even slices (about 1/4-inch thick)
• 1/4 cup granulated white sugar
• 2 tablespoons packed dark brown sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/8 teaspoon fine sea salt
• 2 tablespoons gluten-free all-purpose flour blend (ensure it’s a light, starch-based blend)

For the Oat Crumble Topping:

• 1/4 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour blend
• 1/3 cup certified gluten-free rolled oats (or quick-cooking oats)
• 1/8 teaspoon fine sea salt
• 1/3 cup packed brown sugar
• 3 tablespoons softened unsalted dairy-free butter (or refined coconut oil)

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Instructions

1. Preheat Oven & Grease Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a small 6-inch cast iron skillet, pie dish, or ramekin with dairy-free butter or nonstick cooking spray.
2. Prepare Apple Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced apples, white sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and gluten-free all-purpose flour. Toss gently with a spoon until the apple slices are completely coated. Set aside for a few minutes to allow the juices to form.
3. Prepare Oat Crumble Topping: In a medium saucepan, melt the dairy-free butter over medium heat. Add the gluten-free all-purpose flour, gluten-free oats, salt, and brown sugar to the pan. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined and a crumbly texture forms.
4. Cook Topping Until Browned: Continue to stir the crumble mixture every few minutes for about 3-5 minutes, until it starts to come together slightly, smells fragrant, and the oats are lightly browned. This step enhances the crunchiness and flavor.
5. Transfer Apple Mixture to Pan: Spoon the apple filling mixture into the prepared cast iron pan, making sure to scrape all the delicious juices and sugars from the bowl into the pan. Spread evenly.
6. Top with Crumble: Evenly distribute the prepared oat crumble mixture over the apples, leaving some of the apple filling visible for a rustic look.
7. Bake Until Golden: Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apple filling is bubbly and tender.
8. Serve and Enjoy: Let the crisp cool for a few minutes before serving warm. Enjoy this delicious gluten-free apple crisp with a scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream, coconut whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce!

Notes

Apples: For the best results, use firm apples that hold their shape well when baked. Granny Smith apples are excellent for their tartness, but a mix of sweet and tart varieties like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala works beautifully. You can peel the apples if you prefer a smoother texture, or leave the skins on for added fiber and rustic appeal.

Sugar: This recipe uses a mix of white sugar and dark brown sugar for depth of flavor. Other good alternatives include cane sugar, light brown sugar, or coconut sugar. For a sugar-free option, granulated monkfruit sweetener is a fantastic 1:1 substitute that won’t impact blood sugar levels.

Spices: The classic combination of ground cinnamon and ground nutmeg provides a comforting fall flavor. If you enjoy its unique aroma, a small amount of ground cardamom can also be added.

Gluten-Free Flour: It’s important to use a high-quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend composed of lighter flours and starches (e.g., rice flour, tapioca starch, corn starch, potato starch). Avoid blends containing heavier flours like garbanzo bean flour, which can result in a dense or gritty texture.

Oats: Both quick-cooking oats and rolled oats work well for the topping. If you have Celiac disease or gluten intolerance, always use certified gluten-free oats to prevent cross-contamination from shared processing facilities.

Butter: To keep this recipe dairy-free and vegan, unsalted dairy-free butter (vegan butter) is recommended. Refined coconut oil can be used as an alternative for a more neutral flavor; extra virgin coconut oil will impart a stronger coconut taste. If dietary restrictions are not a concern, regular unsalted butter can be used.

Storing: Once cooled, store leftover apple crisp in an airtight container or tightly covered with plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes to restore crispiness before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 mins
• Cook Time: 25 mins
• Category: Desserts, Fall
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American