Apple Crisp Recipe Without Oats: A Deliciously Easy Twist on a Classic
Are you craving a warm, comforting apple crisp but want to avoid oats? This recipe delivers all the deliciousness of a traditional apple crisp without the oats, making it perfect for those with dietary restrictions or simply seeking a unique flavor profile. This recipe is gluten-free and easily adaptable to various dietary needs.
Why Skip the Oats?
Many people choose to avoid oats due to gluten sensitivity or allergies. This recipe provides a delicious alternative, ensuring everyone can enjoy this classic dessert. Plus, it offers a slightly different texture and a chance to experiment with various flavour combinations.
Ingredients You'll Need:
For the Filling:
- 6 medium apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix are great!), peeled, cored, and sliced
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
For the Crisp Topping:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend)
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
Instructions:
Preparing the Apple Filling:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, gently combine the sliced apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and lemon juice. Toss everything together until the apples are evenly coated.
Making the Crisp Topping:
- In a separate bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
- Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Avoid overmixing.
Assembling and Baking:
- Pour the apple filling into a greased 8x8 inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle the crisp topping evenly over the apple filling.
- Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are tender. If the topping browns too quickly, cover the edges of the baking dish loosely with aluminum foil.
Cooling and Serving:
- Let the apple crisp cool slightly before serving. This allows the filling to set and prevents burns.
- Serve warm, optionally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Tips and Variations:
- Nuts: Add chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds to the crisp topping for extra crunch and flavor.
- Spices: Experiment with different spice combinations. A dash of cardamom or ginger can add warmth and complexity.
- Citrus: Add a tablespoon of orange zest to the filling for a brighter citrus note.
- Make it ahead: Assemble the crisp up to a day in advance and store it, covered, in the refrigerator. Add 10-15 minutes to the baking time when baking from cold.
This oat-free apple crisp is a delightful and adaptable recipe perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the warm, comforting flavors and the satisfying crunch of the topping, all without the oats! Share your creations and tag us on social media! #appleCrisp #oatfree #glutenfree #dessert #easyrecipe #baking