Gluten-Free Apple Crisp (Dairy Free Option)

This gluten-free apple crisp is my healthy spin on the classic fall dessert we all know and love. It’s warm, cozy, and full of sweet baked apples wrapped in a crumbly oat topping that bakes to a beautiful golden brown. Not only is this apple crisp free from gluten, dairy, and refined sugar—it’s also decadent, delicious, and sure to fool even the strictest critic.

Whether you’re celebrating the fall season or just craving a simple crisp recipe made with wholesome ingredients, this one is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

What Are the Ingredients in This Gluten Free Apple Crisp?

Apples

The main ingredient in this dessert is, of course, fresh apples. The secret to a perfectly balanced flavor is using a variety of apples—a mix of sweet apples and tart apples creates depth and complexity. Granny Smith apples, Pink Lady, and Golden Delicious are all good choices. I love combining several apple varieties for the best texture and taste.
Health benefits: Apples are rich in antioxidants, fiber, and vitamin C, supporting digestion and immune health. Their natural sweetness helps you enjoy dessert without added refined sugars.

Almond Flour

Almond flour gives the crisp a subtly nutty flavor and a light, tender texture. It’s a perfect gluten-free alternative to refined flour and adds a dose of healthy fats and protein. Alternatively you could use Bob’s Red Mill 1 to 1 Flour. #ad
Health benefits: Almond flour is rich in vitamin E, magnesium, and heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. It helps stabilize blood sugar, supports hormone balance, and promotes glowing skin thanks to its antioxidant content.

Sprouted Gluten-Free Oats

Sprouted oats make this crisp topping next-level delicious. They bake into a crumbly oat layer that turns beautifully golden brown in the oven. Sprouting enhances their nutrition and makes them easier to digest.
Health benefits: Sprouted gluten-free oats are high in soluble fiber (great for heart and gut health) and loaded with plant protein and minerals like iron and zinc. The sprouting process reduces phytic acid, making nutrients more bioavailable and easier on digestion. I use and love the brand One Degree. #ad

Coconut Oil:

Instead of traditional cold butter, this recipe uses organic virgin coconut oil to keep it dairy-free. Coconut oil adds richness and moisture while keeping the recipe 100% plant-based. If you prefer the recipe with butter, you can absolutely replace the coconut oil with butter.
Health benefits: Coconut oil is rich in antioxidants and medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which can support brain function, metabolism, and healthy hormone balance.

Pecans

Chopped pecans in the oat mixture add the perfect crunch and nutty flavor to this classic apple dessert.
Health benefits: Pecans are loaded with heart-healthy fats, magnesium, and antioxidants that help reduce inflammation and support brain health.

Coconut Sugar

Coconut sugar gives this dessert that nostalgic apple pie flavor.
Health benefits: Coconut sugar is less processed than refined sugar which means it has a lower glycemic impact and it also contains trace minerals. #ad

Cinnamon & Fresh Ginger

These warming spices give this crisp its signature fall season aroma. Cinnamon adds cozy flavor and balances blood sugar, while freshly grated ginger brings a bright, slightly spicy note.
Health benefits: Both are powerful anti-inflammatory ingredients that support digestion and boost immunity—perfect for keeping your body healthy through the cooler months.

Vanilla Extract

A touch of vanilla extract enhances the natural sweetness of the apples and brings the whole dessert together.
Health benefits: Vanilla has antioxidant properties and can promote a calming effect—making this dessert as soothing as it is delicious.

How to Make This Apple Crisp

Step one:

Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease an 8×10 baking dish.

Step two:

Peel, core, and thinly slice your apples (a mandoline works best for even slices). Combine the apples with lemon juice, maple syrup, cinnamon, ginger, and vanilla extract in a large bowl, then pour into your prepared baking dish.

Step three:

In a separate bowl, combine the oat mixture—certified gluten-free oats, oat flour, chopped pecans, salt, brown sugar, and coconut sugar. Add melted coconut oil and stir with a fork or pastry cutter until the mixture becomes crumbly.

Step four:

Spread the topping evenly over the apple mixture. Cover and bake for 25 minutes, then uncover and bake another 20 minutes, or until the top is perfectly golden brown and crisp.

Step five:

Allow the crisp to cool slightly before serving. It’s divine on its own or paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream (or coconut milk ice cream if you’re keeping it a dairy-free apple crisp).

Tips for the Best Gluten Free Apple Crisp

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerater for up to 5 days
• Mix sweet apples like Golden Delicious with tart apples like Granny Smith or Pink Lady for the best flavor balance.
• Make sure your coconut oil (or cold butter) stays chilled before mixing for a perfectly crispy topping

More Reader Favorite Gluten Free Dessert Recipes

• Coconut Almond Bars
• Gluten Free Banana Bread
• Invisible Apple Cake

I hope you give this gluten-free apple crisp a try! It’s a wholesome, classic fall dessert that celebrates the best flavors of the fall season while nourishing your body with real, natural ingredients. If you do, please leave a comment and star rating below—or tag @wholisticmandy on Instagram. Your reviews help support this blog and make it possible for me to continue to create the recipes you know and love.