There’s something undeniably comforting about the smell of apples baking with cinnamon, it instantly warms the soul. This Apple Crisp recipe without oats is my go-to when I want that nostalgic dessert experience without the chewy texture oats bring. Instead, you get a buttery, golden topping that’s all crunch and melt-in-your-mouth goodness.
Perfect as a weeknight treat, a holiday favorite, or a heartwarming potluck dessert, this version stands out for its simplicity and elegance. Whether you’re hosting friends or simply winding down with a book and a bowl of something cozy, this recipe is your sweet spot.
The flavor profile? Think tart and tender apple slices gently coated in warm spices, nestled under a crisp, buttery streusel topping that shatters with each bite. It’s a fall dessert dream come true, but let’s be honest, it’s amazing all year round. If you love apple desserts but prefer a smoother, more traditional crust over crumbly oats, this is the one you’ve been searching for.
Table of contents
Recipe Card
Apple Crisp Without Oats
Course: DessertDifficulty: Easy6
servings15
minutes45
minutes310
kcalThis easy apple crisp recipe without oats combines juicy apples with a buttery cinnamon-sugar topping for a classic, no-fuss dessert perfect for fall.
Ingredients
6 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, peeled and sliced)
2/3 cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter (chilled and cut into small cubes)
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9 inch baking dish.
- Prepare the apples: In a large bowl, toss the sliced apples with lemon juice, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Place the coated apples evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Make the crisp topping: In another bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, and chilled butter cubes. Using your fingers or a pastry cutter, blend the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add the vanilla to the topping mixture and sprinkle it evenly over the apples.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are tender.
- Serve warm, optionally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of allspice to the apple mixture.
- The crisp is best served warm, but can be reheated if stored in the fridge.
- Using chilled butter for the topping helps achieve a perfectly crumbly texture.
Tips for the Best Apple Crisp Without Oats
- Choose the right apples: A mix of tart and sweet apples like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp offers the best balance.
- Cut the apples evenly: Ensure even cooking by slicing the apples consistently, so they cook at the same rate.
- Butter temperature matters: Keep your butter cold when mixing the topping. This creates the perfect crumbly texture.
- Don’t skip the lemon juice: It prevents browning and enhances the flavor of the apples.
- Customize the sweetness: Adjust the sugar levels depending on the sweetness of your apples.
Benefits
This apple crisp recipe without oats is a great choice for those who want a simple dessert without the need for oats. The absence of oats makes it lighter and focuses on the buttery, crumbly topping that perfectly balances the soft, spiced apples. Additionally, it’s an easy recipe to customize with different flavors or dietary needs. It’s the perfect fall dessert for anyone wanting to savor the season’s bounty with minimal effort.
Best Apples to Use
For the best results in this apple crisp recipe without oats, use a combination of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples. Granny Smith apples bring a tartness that contrasts well with the sweetness of the crisp topping, while Honeycrisp adds a juicy texture and sweetness. Avoid overly soft apples, as they might become mushy during baking. Other great options include Braeburn, Jonagold, or Fuji.
How to Store
To store your apple crisp, let it cool completely, then cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When ready to eat, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for 30-60 seconds.
How to Serve
Serve your apple crisp warm for the best experience. It pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce. For an extra touch of flavor, sprinkle some cinnamon on top of the ice cream. Apple crisp is perfect for any gathering, and it makes a deliciously comforting dessert when served fresh from the oven.
Frequently Asked Questions about Apple Crisp Recipe
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour if you’re looking for a gluten-free version of the apple crisp. Almond flour can also be used for a nutty flavor, but the texture may be slightly different.
For a dairy-free option, you can replace butter with plant-based margarine or coconut oil. Coconut oil will give a slightly different flavor, but it works well in this recipe.
Yes, you can prepare the apple filling and the topping separately, store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, and assemble right before baking. This is perfect for saving time on busy days!
If your topping isn’t crisping up, make sure your butter was cold when mixing with the flour. You can also bake the crisp a bit longer, but cover it with foil if the apples are becoming too soft.
Yes, you can freeze apple crisp! Simply let it cool completely after baking, then cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
You can reduce the amount of sugar or use natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup. However, the texture and taste may vary slightly with these substitutions.
Absolutely! Chopped pecans or walnuts can be added to the topping for extra crunch and flavor.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re cozying up on a chilly evening or celebrating the flavors of fall, this Apple Crisp recipe without oats is a timeless dessert that brings everyone back to the table. Its buttery, golden topping and warmly spiced apples offer comfort in every bite, without a single oat in sight.
If you love easy nostalgic desserts, you’ll definitely want to try this Peach Cobbler Recipe with Cake Mix or explore the fruity charm of our Cherry Crisp Recipe. And if you’re all about festive treats, the Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake will surely bring joy to your holiday table.
Thanks for baking with me—now go enjoy a big spoonful of cozy!
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