This Paleo Apple Crisp is a warm and sweet treat made with juicy apples, cinnamon, and a crunchy topping of nuts and coconut. It’s healthy yet feels like a cozy dessert! 🍏
I love serving it with a scoop of coconut ice cream on top, making it even more delightful. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you for this simple goodness! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: Granny Smith apples are my go-to for this recipe because they’re tart and hold their shape well when baked. Fuji or Honeycrisp can work too if you prefer sweeter apples. If fresh apples aren’t available, you can use frozen sliced apples—just thaw and drain excess moisture.
Coconut Sugar: This sweetener has a nice caramel-like flavor. You can substitute it with pure maple syrup, which gives a different sweetness profile. If you need a lower glycemic index option, consider using erythritol or monk fruit sweetener.
Almond Flour: It adds a lovely nutty flavor to the topping. If you need a nut-free option, sunflower seed flour is a great alternative, and will still provide a similar texture. Just be cautious as it can turn green when baked but is perfectly safe!
Rolled Oats: Make sure to use certified gluten-free oats if necessary. If oats are a concern for you, consider using chia seeds or flaxseeds to add crunch.
How Do I Get the Perfect Crisp Topping?
A great topping is key to a wonderful apple crisp! To achieve that perfect crunch, be sure to follow these steps:
- Combine dry ingredients well before adding wet ones to ensure an even distribution of flavors.
- Don’t skip the melted coconut oil; it helps bind the topping and creates that nice crumbly texture. Make sure to mix until it resembles wet sand.
- Be generous when spreading the topping over the apples; an even layer creates a balanced taste in every bite.
- Monitor the baking time closely! If it’s browning too quickly, cover it with a piece of foil until the apples are tender.
Letting the crisp cool slightly before serving allows the juices to settle, making for easier serving. Enjoy your delicious Paleo Apple Crisp!
How to Make Paleo Apple Crisp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 5 cups peeled, cored, and sliced apples (about 5 medium apples, such as Granny Smith or Fuji)
- 2 tbsp coconut oil, melted
- 1/4 cup coconut sugar or pure maple syrup
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
For the Crisp Topping:
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1 cup rolled oats (certified gluten-free if needed)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1/4 cup coconut sugar or pure maple syrup
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 4 tbsp coconut oil, melted
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty Paleo Apple Crisp takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 40-45 minutes to bake. Total time from start to finish is around 1 hour. Perfect for a cozy evening dessert!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, grease an 8×8 inch baking dish with a bit of coconut oil or cooking spray to prevent the crisp from sticking.
2. Mix the Apple Filling:
In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples with melted coconut oil, coconut sugar (or maple syrup), ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, vanilla extract, and lemon juice. Toss everything together so that the apples are well-coated in the delicious mixture.
3. Transfer Apples to Baking Dish:
Once the apples are coated, transfer them into the greased baking dish and spread them evenly across the bottom. This forms the sweet base for your apple crisp.
4. Make the Crisp Topping:
In a separate bowl, combine the almond flour, rolled oats, chopped nuts, shredded coconut, coconut sugar (or maple syrup), ground cinnamon, and salt. Mix everything thoroughly. Then, pour in the melted coconut oil and stir until the mixture becomes crumbly, resembling wet sand. It should hold together when pressed—this is your topping!
5. Assemble and Bake:
Evenly sprinkle the crisp topping over the apple mixture in the baking dish. Then, pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for about 40-45 minutes, or until the topping turns golden brown and the apples are bubbling hot.
6. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the crisp from the oven and allow it to cool for about 10 minutes. This helps the juices settle a bit, making it easier to serve. Enjoy it warm on its own or topped with a scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream or coconut whipped cream for a special treat!
Now you have a delightful, healthy dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy your warming, naturally sweet Paleo Apple Crisp!
Can I Use Different Types of Apples?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Fuji apples are recommended for their balance of tartness and sweetness, you can also experiment with Honeycrisp, Braeburn, or even a mix of different apples for a more complex flavor.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm individual portions in the microwave or bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Is There a Nut-Free Alternative for the Topping?
Yes! If you need a nut-free option, you can use sunflower seed flour instead of almond flour and omit the nuts. The taste will still be delicious, and it keeps with the crispy texture!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare the apple filling and the crisp topping ahead of time, then store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, just assemble them in the baking dish and pop it in the oven!”