Craving a cozy fall dessert that’s simple to whip up and skips the oats? An easy apple crisp recipe without oats is the perfect way to savor the season’s best apples with a buttery, golden crumble. At Aura, we’re all about making deliciously practical recipes that fit your busy life. As a home cook, I’ve perfected this oat-free apple crisp to deliver warm, cinnamon-spiced flavor in under an hour. Whether you’re dodging oats for dietary reasons or just love a classic, crispy topping, this recipe will become your go-to. Let’s dive into this irresistible fall treat and bring some sweetness to your table!
Why Choose an Oat-Free Apple Crisp
Choosing an oat-free apple crisp is great for several reasons. First, some people have dietary needs like gluten intolerance or oat allergies, so removing oats makes the dessert safe for them. Second, skipping oats changes the texture and flavor — you get a more buttery, crumbly topping that’s different from the usual oat crunch. Lastly, an oat-free version often means a simpler recipe with fewer ingredients, making it quicker and easier to whip up, especially if you want a straightforward cinnamon apple dessert without any fuss.
Ingredients for Aura’s Easy Apple Crisp Without Oats
To make Aura’s easy apple crisp without oats, you’ll need simple, everyday ingredients that come together quickly for a cozy dessert.
Apple Filling
- 6 to 7 medium apples (a mix of tart and sweet works best, like Granny Smith and Fuji)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 to 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (keeps apples bright and fresh)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Crumble Topping
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend to keep it gluten-free)
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 7 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
- Pinch of salt
Optional Add-Ins
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for crunch
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg for extra warmth
- A splash of vanilla extract in the apple filling for depth
These ingredients make a buttery crumble topping that’s just as tasty as oats but keeps this apple crisp simple and perfect for those avoiding oats or gluten.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prep the Apples
Start by peeling, coring, and slicing about 6 cups of apples. Choose firmer baking apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji for the best texture. Toss the sliced apples with 2 tablespoons of sugar, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and a squeeze of lemon juice to keep them bright and flavorful.
Make the Crumble Topping
In a bowl, combine 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup brown sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon. Cut in 1/2 cup cold butter until the mixture looks crumbly and coarse, like small peas. This buttery crumble topping adds that classic apple crisp crunch without oats.
Assemble and Bake
Spread the apple mixture evenly in a greased 8×8-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the crumble topping over the apples in an even layer. Bake at 350°F for 40-45 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are tender and bubbly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm plain, or add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a classic cinnamon apple dessert. This easy apple crumble recipe makes a cozy quick fall dessert everyone loves.
Tips for the Perfect Apple Crisp
Apple Selection
Choose firm, tart apples that hold their shape when baked. Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, and Fuji are great options. Mixing a couple of varieties adds depth to the flavor and texture.
Gluten-Free Adaptation
To keep this apple crisp gluten-free without oats, use gluten-free flour like almond, rice, or a store-bought blend in the crumble topping. Make sure any add-ins like nuts or spices are also certified gluten-free.
Make-Ahead and Storage
You can prepare the apple filling and crumble topping separately a day ahead. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge, then assemble and bake when ready. Leftovers keep well in the fridge for 3–4 days, and reheating in the oven helps keep the topping crispy.
Time-Saving Hacks
- Use pre-sliced apples or apple pie filling from the store for quicker prep.
- Mix the crumble topping right in the baking dish to save cleanup.
- Bake in individual ramekins for fast portion control and serving.
These tips help you make a simple, delicious apple crisp without oats anytime.
Why Aura’s Recipe Stands Out
Aura’s easy apple crisp recipe without oats is all about practicality. It uses simple ingredients you likely already have, making it a great go-to dessert without extra trips to the store. The recipe skips oats but keeps that classic buttery crumble topping, delivering that comforting texture and flavor everyone loves.
This recipe is super versatile. You can easily swap apples or add nuts and spices to suit your taste or dietary needs. It adapts well for gluten-free diets, too, making it accessible for many families.
Plus, it has strong seasonal appeal. Perfect for fall, this cinnamon apple dessert brings the cozy flavors of the season with minimal effort. Whether you’re baking for a weeknight treat or special occasion, Aura’s apple crisp fits right in with its easy prep and satisfying results.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this apple crisp gluten-free?
Yes! Just swap the all-purpose flour in the crumble topping with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure your other ingredients, like spices, are also gluten-free to keep it safe.
What apples are best for apple crisp?
Firm, tart apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn work best. They hold up well during baking and balance the sweetness of the topping.
Can I add nuts to the topping?
Absolutely. Chopped pecans or walnuts add a nice crunch and flavor to the buttery crumble topping. Just mix them in with the flour, sugar, and butter.
How do I prevent a soggy topping?
To keep your apple crisp topping nice and crisp:
- Toss the apples with a bit of flour or cornstarch to absorb excess juice.
- Don’t overload with too much fruit.
- Bake uncovered to let moisture escape.
Can I use other fruits?
Yes, you can mix or substitute with fruits like pears, peaches, or berries for a different twist. Just adjust sugar levels depending on the fruit’s sweetness.
For a quick dessert idea, try pairing this apple crisp with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. If you want other easy recipes, check out my easy sloppy joe recipe for a simple meal to go with!
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