Apple Crisp Without Oats (Vegan, GF) Recipe
This vegan and gluten-free apple crisp uses a nutritious almond and date topping instead of oats for a wholesome, naturally sweetened dessert. Sliced apples are coated with maple syrup, lemon juice, and cinnamon, then baked under a crunchy, lightly spiced almond-date crust made with coconut oil. Perfect for a healthy twist on a classic fall treat, this apple crisp is simple to make and satisfies your sweet tooth without refined sugars or gluten.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Fruit Base
- 5 cups sliced apples, peeled (about 5 medium-sized apples)
- 2 tsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp cinnamon
Topping
- 1 1/4 cup almonds
- 1 cup packed soft dates, pitted (about 10 Medjool dates)
- 2 tbsp coconut oil
- 1 tsp cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C), allowing it to heat up properly while you prepare the ingredients.
- Prepare the apples: Place the peeled and sliced apples in a baking dish, ensuring they are spread out evenly.
- Mix apple coating: In a small bowl, combine the cornstarch, maple syrup, and fresh lemon juice. Pour this mixture over the apples and stir gently to coat all slices evenly. Sprinkle with cinnamon for added flavor.
- Make the topping dough: Using a food processor or blender, pulse the almonds until they form a coarse flour. Add the pitted dates, coconut oil, and cinnamon, then blend until the mixture comes together into a sticky dough.
- Assemble the crisp: Press the almond-date dough evenly over the top of the coated apples, fully covering them to create a crisp crust.
- Bake the crisp: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35 minutes, or until the topping is golden and the apples are tender.
- Store leftovers: Once cooled, cover any leftovers and store them in the refrigerator in a sealed container for up to 3-4 days.
Notes
- This crisp is naturally sweetened with dates and maple syrup, making it a healthier alternative to traditional recipes.
- Ensure apples are peeled for a softer texture; tart varieties like Granny Smith work best.
- Use soft, fully ripened Medjool dates for optimal blending and natural sweetness.
- The topping works well as a nutritious gluten-free alternative to oat crisps.
- Leftovers can be gently reheated in the oven or microwave before serving.
- For added texture, you can sprinkle some chopped nuts on top before baking.
