Why You’ll Love Apple Crisp (Paleo, Vegan, Gluten-Free) Recipe
This recipe is perfect for when you want a comforting dessert without a long prep time or a complicated ingredient list. The apples turn soft and caramelized on the stovetop, while the crumb topping adds a delicious crunch from pecans, macadamia nuts, cashews, coconut, and cacao nibs.
You’ll also love that it fits a variety of dietary needs. It is naturally paleo-friendly, vegan when made with maple syrup, and completely gluten-free. Since it is portioned into individual ramekins, it also feels special enough for entertaining while still being easy enough for a weeknight treat.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
3 tablespoons pecans
2 tablespoons macadamia nuts
3 tablespoons cashews
2 tablespoons unsweetened shredded coconut
2 tablespoons golden flaxseed meal
2 teaspoons cacao nibs
⅛ teaspoon fine Himalayan salt
2 tablespoons coconut oil, melted (or butter, if not strictly vegan or paleo)
2 tablespoons maple syrup (or raw honey, if not strictly vegan)
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
2 medium apples, diced
Directions
Add the cashews to a food processor or blender and process until they form a fine powder. Transfer the ground cashews to a large bowl.
Next, coarsely chop the pecans and macadamia nuts in the food processor or blender. Add them to the bowl with the cashew powder.
Stir in the shredded coconut, flaxseed meal, cacao nibs, and salt. Add 1 tablespoon of the melted coconut oil and 1 tablespoon of the maple syrup, then mix everything together with a spatula until the mixture is moist and crumbly. Set the topping aside.
In a medium saucepan, combine the remaining 1 tablespoon coconut oil, remaining 1 tablespoon maple syrup, cinnamon, and diced apples. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, for about 5 to 10 minutes, or until the apples are softened and lightly caramelized.
Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the crumb mixture into the bottom of each of four 4-ounce ramekins and press it down gently. Divide the warm apples among the ramekins, filling them almost to the top. If any syrupy apple sauce remains in the pan, spoon it over the apples. Finish by topping each ramekin with more crumb mixture.
Place the ramekins under the broiler for about 2 minutes, just until the tops are lightly browned. Watch closely so they do not burn. Let the crisps cool for about 5 minutes before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 4 servings.
Prep time: 12 minutes
Cook time: about 10 to 12 minutes
Total time: about 22 to 24 minutes
Variations
For a deeper fall flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the apples along with the cinnamon.
You can swap the apples for pears if you want a slightly softer, more delicate fruit filling.
For extra texture, stir a few more chopped nuts into the topping before broiling.
If you want the dessert a little sweeter, drizzle a small amount of extra maple syrup over the apples just before serving.
To make it even more decadent, serve it with coconut whipped cream or a scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream.
Storage/Reheating
Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Because the dessert is assembled in ramekins, it is easy to cover each portion individually or transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
To reheat, warm the apple crisp in a 300°F oven for about 8 to 10 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave it for 20 to 30 seconds, though the topping will be softer. For the best texture, reheating in the oven is recommended.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes. You can prepare the apple filling and crumb topping ahead of time, then assemble and broil the ramekins just before serving.
What are the best apples to use for apple crisp?
Firm apples that hold their shape well work best. Varieties like Honeycrisp, Fuji, Gala, or Pink Lady are great choices.
Can I use honey instead of maple syrup?
Yes, but the recipe will no longer be vegan if you use honey. Maple syrup keeps it fully plant-based.
Do I need ramekins for this recipe?
No. If you do not have ramekins, you can make it in one small baking dish instead. Just watch the broiling time carefully.
Can I skip the cacao nibs?
Yes. The cacao nibs add crunch and a subtle bitter chocolate note, but the crisp will still be delicious without them.
Is this recipe very sweet?
No. It has a lightly sweet flavor that lets the apples and nuts stand out. You can always add a little extra maple syrup if you prefer a sweeter dessert.
Can I use a different oil?
Yes. If you are not strictly following paleo or vegan guidelines, melted butter works well. Otherwise, coconut oil is the best option for flavor and texture.
How do I keep the topping from burning under the broiler?
Place the ramekins a little farther from the heating element and watch them closely. Broilers work fast, so even 1 to 2 minutes can be enough.
Can I freeze apple crisp?
You can freeze it, but the topping may lose some of its crisp texture after thawing. For best results, enjoy it fresh or refrigerated within a few days.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes. This recipe doubles easily if you want to serve more people. You can use additional ramekins or one larger baking dish.
Conclusion
This Apple Crisp is a quick and satisfying dessert that proves simple ingredients can create something truly special. With tender cinnamon apples, a crunchy nut-and-coconut topping, and a naturally gluten-free, paleo, and vegan-friendly ingredient list, it is a recipe you can turn to whenever you want a cozy homemade treat without much effort.
