Gluten-Free Apple Crumble – Cozy, Crispy, and Naturally Sweet

There’s nothing quite like the smell of baked apples filling your kitchen on a cool afternoon. This gluten-free apple crumble is one of those comforting desserts that feels both homey and wholesome — the perfect balance of sweet, tart, and crunchy. I first made this version for a family gathering when a guest couldn’t eat gluten, and it quickly became everyone’s favorite! It’s an easy homemade apple crumble recipe that anyone can enjoy, whether you’re gluten-free or not. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of yogurt for the ultimate treat.

Ingredients

For the Apple Filling:

• 6 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best), peeled and sliced

• 2 tablespoons maple syrup or brown sugar

•  teaspoon cinnamon

•  tablespoon lemon juice

• teaspoon cornstarch (or arrowroot powder)

• A pinch of salt

For the Gluten-Free Crumble Topping:

• 1 cup gluten-free rolled oats

• ½ cup almond flour (or oat flour)

• ¼ cup coconut sugar (or brown sugar)

• ½ teaspoon cinnamon

• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• 5 tablespoons cold unsalted butter (or coconut oil for dairy-free option), cut into cubes

• 2 tablespoons chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts, optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Set your oven to 180°C (350°F) and lightly grease a baking dish (around 8×8 inches).

2. Prepare the Apples:
   In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples with maple syrup, cinnamon, lemon juice, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt. Toss until the apples are evenly coated.

3. Make the Crumble Topping:
   In another bowl, mix the gluten-free oats, almond flour, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Add the cold butter cubes and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the nuts if using.

4. Assemble the Crumble:
   Spread the apple mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the crumble topping over the apples, covering them completely.

5. Bake:
   Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are bubbly and tender.

6. Serve:
   Let it cool for at least 10 minutes before serving. Enjoy it warm with ice cream, yogurt, or whipped cream.

Tips & Variations

• Apple Choice: For the best flavor, use a mix of tart and sweet apples (like Granny Smith and Fuji).

• Add Some Texture: Stir in shredded coconut, pumpkin seeds, or extra chopped nuts for more crunch.

• Make it Dairy-Free: Substitute the butter with solid coconut oil or vegan butter.

• Add a Twist: Sprinkle in a handful of raisins or cranberries for added sweetness and color.

• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cardamom or ginger for a cozy fall flavor.

Storing & Reheating

• To Store: Once cooled, cover the crumble tightly and refrigerate for up to 4 days.

• To Freeze: Transfer portions into airtight containers and freeze for up to 2 months.

• To Reheat: Warm in the oven at 160°C (320°F) for 10–15 minutes to crisp the topping again. For a quick option, microwave individual servings for 30–45 seconds (though it may soften the topping slightly).

FAQs

1. Can I make it ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the crumble a day ahead and refrigerate it. Just bake it when ready to serve.

2. Can I use gluten-free flour instead of almond flour?
Yes! Oat flour or a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose blend works well.

3. What apples are best for apple crumble?
Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Pink Lady apples hold their shape and provide a nice balance of sweetness and tartness.

4. Can I reduce the sugar?
Definitely. You can cut the sugar in half or replace it with a natural sweetener like maple syrup or coconut sugar.

5. Can I make this recipe nut-free?
Yes — simply skip the nuts or replace them with sunflower or pumpkin seeds.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: ~290 kcal

• Protein: 4 g

• Carbohydrates: 42 g

• Fat: 12 g
  (Values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients used.)

This gluten-free apple crumble proves that comfort food can be both delicious and wholesome. With its crisp topping, tender apples, and warm spices, it’s a dessert that brings people together — whether you’re gluten-free or not. If you try this recipe, let me know how it turned out in the comments below! Don’t forget to share it with your friends or explore other cozy desserts on the blog like my Pumpkin Coffee Cake or Caramelized Shallot Dip.

Warm kitchens, sweet aromas, and happy hearts — that’s what good food is all about.