Apple crisp recipe without oats is the dessert you make when you want pure, buttery crunch without a single oat in sight. Imagine tender, cinnamon-spiced apples baked under a golden, crumbly topping that’s rich, crisp, and absolutely addictive. This apple crisp recipe without oats skips the traditional rolled oats and leans into simple pantry ingredients—flour, sugar, butter, and spices—for a topping that shatters with each bite.
My love for recipes like this began back when I was ten, peeling apples from my dad’s garden while my mom worked her magic in the kitchen. That hands-on, from-scratch style of cooking stuck with me. Now, I share recipes that feel like home, the kind you make for family gatherings or just because the house smells too quiet without something baking.
This apple crisp recipe without oats is perfect for anyone avoiding oats for dietary reasons, or simply craving a smoother, more decadent topping. It’s easy to prepare, flexible enough for your favorite apple varieties, and guaranteed to fill your kitchen with the kind of aroma that makes everyone wander in, fork in hand.
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Apple Crisp Recipe Without Oats
- Total Time: 1 hr
Description
This from-scratch apple crisp without oats is a classic, old-fashioned dessert reminiscent of Grandma’s kitchen. Filled with soft, cinnamon-sugar apples and topped with a golden, buttery crumble that melts in your mouth, it’s the perfect cozy treat for fall.
Ingredients
Apple Filling
- 6–8 medium baking apples*, sliced, around 2.5-3 pounds
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup water, or apple cider
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Crisp Topping
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
- 12 Tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature and cubed
Equipment
- 8×8 Square Baking Pan
- Dough Blen
Instructions
- Pre-heat oven to 375°F. Peel and slice apples into approximately 1/4 to 1/2 inch slices.
6-8 medium baking apples - In a large mixing bowl or the baking dish you will be using, toss the apple slices with sugar, water (or juice), and cinnamon. Mix well to coat the slices completely, and spread in an even layer in an 8×8 glass or ceramic baking dish.
½ cup granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, ¼ cup water - In a separate medium mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and butter cubes with a pie blender or two forks, until well combined and small crumbles form. Lightly pat the topping over apples in the baking dish.
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour, 1 cup granulated sugar, ½ teaspoon fine sea salt, 12 Tablespoons unsalted butter - Bake the apple crisp for 45-50 minutes, until bubbling and the topping is golden brown. Let sit for 15-20 minutes to cool slightly, then serve warm with vanilla ice cream as desired. Enjoy!
Notes
Apples: You want to use apples that are sweet yet tart and will not break down too much during the baking process. If you can find Jonathan apples, they are best. Honeycrisps are a great option, and Granny Smiths will work in a pinch, too.
Storage: I usually store the apple crisp on the counter, covered, for the first day (if it lasts that long!). You can reheat in the microwave, oven, or enjoy at room temperature. For longer storage, cover and place in the fridge.
Reheating: you can enjoy it at room temperature, or reheat individual portions in the microwave. To reheat the entire pan, heat in the oven at 350°F for approximately 10-12 minutes, depending on how much is left in the pan.
Baking Dish: Adjust the size of the pan as needed. A 9×9 pan works just as well. The thickness of the crisp just may vary if using an oval or other shaped baking dish. If using a pan larger than 9×9, you will likely need less baking time.
To prepare this apple dessert ahead of time, assemble it in its entirety. Consider adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to the filling for storage, to prevent the apples from browning. Cover and store it in the fridge until you are ready to bake. Let it sit at room temperature as the oven preheats in this case, to ensure your dish doesn’t shatter from the temperature change, and bake as directed.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 45 mins
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8 servings
- Calories: 396 kca
- Sugar: 52 g
- Sodium: 298 mg
- Fat: 17 g
- Saturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 62 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 45 mg
Discover great ideas like our Easy Peach Cobbler Recipe for another irresistible baked treat.
Table of Contents
What is an Apple Crisp Without Oats?
A Dessert with a Buttery, Golden Twist
An apple crisp recipe without oats is a comforting dessert that swaps the traditional rolled oats for a smooth, crumbly topping. Instead of a chewy texture, you get a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth crunch over tender, cinnamon-spiced apples. This oat-free version uses flour, butter, sugar, and warm spices to create a topping that bakes into a golden crust, offering the perfect contrast to the soft, juicy fruit below.
Why Skip the Oats?
While oats can bring a rustic texture, leaving them out makes for a richer, bakery-style crumble. It’s ideal for those with oat allergies, gluten sensitivities (when using gluten-free flour), or simply for anyone who prefers a more pie-like topping. In my family, an apple crisp recipe without oats often appeared when oats were nowhere to be found, but apples from my dad’s garden were overflowing. My mom would adapt, proving that the best desserts often come from using what’s on hand.
Versatility in Every Bite
This oat-free crisp is endlessly customizable. Try tart Granny Smith apples for a tangy bite, or Honeycrisp for natural sweetness. Add chopped pecans for crunch, shredded coconut for a tropical note, or a pinch of nutmeg for extra warmth.
For more oat-free dessert inspiration, you might also love our blueberry protein muffins.
Why Make an Apple Crisp Recipe Without Oats?
Health and Dietary Benefits
Choosing an apple crisp recipe without oats isn’t just about taste—it can also fit specific dietary needs. Many people avoid oats due to allergies, gluten sensitivity (even certified gluten-free oats can cause reactions in some), or personal preference. This oat-free version makes it easier to adapt the dessert for those with dietary restrictions. By using gluten-free flour, dairy-free butter alternatives, and unrefined sugars, you can enjoy a crisp that’s both allergy-friendly and guilt-free. Apples also provide natural fiber and antioxidants, along with a pleasant sweet-tart flavor that stands out even more when oats aren’t competing for attention.
Texture and Flavor Differences
An apple crisp recipe without oats delivers a different kind of bite—more refined, buttery, and smooth. While oats add chewiness, removing them gives you a topping closer to shortbread in texture, with each crumb crisping beautifully in the oven. This also allows the flavor of the apples and spices to stand out more. Without oats soaking up moisture, the topping stays crunchier for longer, even the next day. It’s an ideal choice for serving at gatherings where presentation and that fresh-baked crunch matter.
If you’re intrigued by how small changes can make a big difference in classic recipes, you’ll also enjoy exploring our Pecan Pie Dump Cake, another twist on a traditional favorite.
Key Ingredients for the Best Oat-Free Apple Crisp
Choosing the Right Apples
The foundation of any apple crisp recipe without oats is the apples themselves. The best crisps balance tartness and sweetness, which is why Granny Smith apples are a classic choice—they hold their shape and provide a tangy bite. For a naturally sweeter crisp, Honeycrisp or Fuji work beautifully. Many bakers like to mix varieties to get both tart and sweet notes in the same dish. Whatever you choose, make sure your apples are fresh, firm, and free from bruises for the best texture and flavor.
Topping Ingredients Without Oats
Without oats, the topping of your apple crisp recipe without oats relies on flour, butter, sugar, and spices for its golden crunch. All-purpose flour works well, but you can swap in almond or gluten-free flour for dietary needs. Use real butter for the richest flavor, though plant-based alternatives can work for a dairy-free version. Brown sugar adds depth and caramel notes, while white sugar keeps the topping light and crisp. Cinnamon is a must, and a pinch of nutmeg or allspice can add warmth.
Step-by-Step Apple Crisp Recipe Without Oats
The beauty of an apple crisp recipe without oats is that it comes together quickly, with simple ingredients and a straightforward process. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you bake the perfect crisp every time.
| Step | Action | Details & Tips |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Prepare Apples | Peel, core, and slice 6–8 medium apples. For balance, mix tart (Granny Smith) and sweet (Honeycrisp) varieties. |
| 2 | Season Apples | Toss apples with ½ cup sugar, 1 tsp cinnamon, and 1 tbsp lemon juice to keep them from browning. |
| 3 | Preheat Oven | Set oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready when your crisp is assembled. |
| 4 | Make Topping | Mix 1 cup flour, 1 cup brown sugar, and ½ cup softened butter until crumbly. Add a pinch of salt and optional spices like nutmeg. |
| 5 | Assemble | Spread apple mixture in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle topping evenly over apples. |
| 6 | Bake | Bake for 40–45 minutes, until the topping is golden brown and apples are tender when pierced with a fork. |
| 7 | Serve | Let cool slightly before serving with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. |
This step-by-step approach ensures your apple crisp recipe without oats has a tender, flavorful filling and a perfectly crisp top.
Baking and Serving Tips for the Perfect Crisp
Baking Time and Temperature
The success of an apple crisp recipe without oats depends heavily on getting the bake just right. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the crisp for 40–45 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the topping turns a deep golden brown and the apple filling is bubbling at the edges. If your apples are especially firm, you might need to bake for an additional 5–10 minutes. To prevent overbrowning, loosely tent the top with foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.
Creative Serving Ideas
An apple crisp recipe without oats is delicious on its own, but pairing it with the right accompaniments can take it from simple to spectacular. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic touch, or try salted caramel drizzle for extra indulgence. Whipped cream with a sprinkle of cinnamon makes for an elegant finish, while a dollop of Greek yogurt offers a tangy contrast for breakfast-style enjoyment.
For special occasions, layer small portions of apple crisp into parfait glasses with whipped cream or custard for a beautiful, single-serve dessert. The oat-free crumble topping holds its texture well, making it ideal for serving at gatherings.
Variations on the Classic Recipe
Nutty Apple Crisp
Adding nuts is an easy way to elevate an apple crisp recipe without oats. Chopped pecans or walnuts bring a satisfying crunch and a slightly earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweet apples. Simply fold ½ cup of your preferred nuts into the topping mixture before baking. Toasting the nuts beforehand can intensify their flavor and give your crisp an irresistible aroma.
Spiced Apple Crisp
If you want your apple crisp recipe without oats to have extra depth, experiment with spices beyond cinnamon. Nutmeg adds a warm, slightly sweet note, while cardamom offers a fragrant, citrusy undertone. Cloves can also bring a festive, holiday-style richness to the dish. Just be careful not to overpower the apples—start with small amounts and adjust to taste.
Fruit Mix-In Twist
Apples play beautifully with other fruits, making it easy to customize your crisp. Mix in sliced pears for a delicate sweetness, cranberries for tartness, or blueberries for a juicy pop of color. When adding juicier fruits, you may want to increase the flour in the filling slightly to prevent excess liquid from making the base soggy.
Storing and Reheating Apple Crisp Without Oats
Proper Storage Methods
To keep your apple crisp recipe without oats fresh, allow it to cool completely before storing. At room temperature, it can be kept for up to 2 days if covered with foil or plastic wrap. To keep it fresh longer, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. This helps maintain the flavor and prevents the topping from becoming overly soft. If you want to freeze it, wrap the baked crisp tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then store it for up to 3 months.
Reheating for Best Texture
When reheating an apple crisp recipe without oats, the goal is to restore that freshly baked crunch without drying out the apples. For single servings, use the microwave for 30–40 seconds to warm through. For the best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes. This allows the topping to crisp up again while keeping the filling juicy. If reheating from frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before warming in the oven.
If you’re curious about other no-oat desserts, check out our protein muffins, which swaps traditional ingredients for a rich, chewy twist.
FAQs About Apple Crisp Without Oats
Can you make apple crisp without oats?
Absolutely! An apple crisp recipe without oats uses a simple flour-based topping that still bakes up golden and crunchy. Butter, sugar, and spices bring richness and flavor without the need for oats. This version is ideal for those with oat allergies or anyone who prefers a smoother, crumbly topping.
Is there a difference between apple crisp and apple crumble?
Yes, though the terms are often used interchangeably. In the U.S., “crisp” typically includes oats, while a “crumble” uses a more biscuit-like topping without oats. That means an apple crisp recipe without oats leans closer to a traditional crumble in texture.
What is the secret to a good apple crisp?
Fresh, firm apples and a well-balanced topping are key. For an apple crisp recipe without oats, make sure the butter is cold when mixed with flour and sugar—this helps create those delicious, crisp crumbs on top. Baking at the right temperature ensures the apples become tender while the topping stays crunchy.
Do you have to use oats in apple crumble?
Not at all. Many classic crumbles skip oats entirely. In fact, an apple crisp recipe without oats can be lighter in texture and lets the apple flavor shine through more clearly.
Conclusion :
An apple crisp recipe without oats proves that simplicity can be just as satisfying as tradition. By focusing on fresh apples, a buttery crumb topping, and just the right amount of spice, you get a dessert that’s both comforting and timeless. The oat-free approach makes it ideal for those with dietary restrictions or anyone seeking a smoother, more delicate texture.
From the first forkful, you’ll taste the natural sweetness of the apples, perfectly balanced with a tender yet crisp topping. It’s a recipe that works equally well for weeknight dinners, holiday feasts, or casual gatherings with friends. Best of all, it’s versatile—you can tweak it with nuts, spices, or other fruits to make it your own.
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