This Paleo Apple Crisp is a warm and cozy treat made with fresh apples and a crunchy topping of nuts and coconut. It’s a healthy twist on a classic dessert!
I love enjoying this crisp with a dollop of almond yogurt. Seriously, it’s like a hug in a bowl! Plus, it’s super easy to whip up for a quick dessert on a chilly evening.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: I recommend using Fuji or Honeycrisp for their sweetness and texture. If those aren’t available, any firm apples like Granny Smith or Gala will work, though they might change the sweetness balance. You can also mix different kinds for more flavor!
Coconut Oil: While I love using coconut oil for its flavor, you can substitute with melted ghee or butter if you’re not strict on Paleo. Olive oil is another option if you prefer a different taste, but keep in mind it may alter the flavor slightly.
Maple Syrup: Maple syrup adds a lovely sweetness to this dish. If you’re looking for alternatives, honey is a great choice. For a lower sugar option, try using a few drops of stevia or a sugar-free maple syrup, but adjust based on sweetness preference.
Almond Flour: Almond flour is perfect for a grain-free crumble. If you have nut allergies, consider using sunflower seed flour as a substitute. Just know the flavor may differ a bit. You could also use coconut flour but reduce the amount due to its absorbency.
How Do I Get the Topping Extra Crunchy?
To achieve that perfect crunch in the topping, mixing the almond flour with chopped nuts and shredded coconut is essential. Here’s how to make sure it becomes beautifully crisp!
- Ensure your oven is fully preheated. This helps the topping cook evenly.
- When mixing the topping ingredients, use your fingers to create a crumbly texture—this helps with the crunch.
- Spread the topping evenly over the apples without pressing it down too much, allowing air to circulate and create that desired crispness.
- If you prefer an extra crunch, consider toasting the nuts or coconut before mixing them in.
Letting the apple crisp cool slightly after baking can also help the topping set up better for an enjoyable crunch!
How to Make Paleo Apple Crisp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 4 medium apples (such as Fuji or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and sliced
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil, melted
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup (or honey)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (such as walnuts or pecans)
- 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Paleo Apple Crisp will take about 10 minutes to prepare and 30-35 minutes to bake, for a total of about 45-50 minutes. It’s quick and easy, perfect for a weeknight dessert!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your crisp bakes evenly and turns out deliciously golden brown.
2. Prepare the Apple Filling:
Take a large mixing bowl and toss those sliced apples with 1 tablespoon of melted coconut oil, 1 tablespoon of maple syrup, 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and the vanilla extract. Mix everything together until the apples are well coated. Set this aside—it’s the sweet, fruity layer of your crisp.
3. Make the Topping:
In another bowl, combine the almond flour, chopped nuts, unsweetened shredded coconut, the remaining tablespoon of maple syrup, the melted coconut oil, the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Use your fingers or a fork to mix it all until it becomes crumbly. This will be the crunchy topping!
4. Assemble the Dish:
Grab a greased or lightly oiled baking dish, and layer the apple mixture at the bottom. Make sure to spread it out evenly. Now, sprinkle the crumbly topping over the apples, covering them well.
5. Bake:
Pop your dish into the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the topping is golden brown and the apples are tender and bubbly!
6. Let It Cool:
Once baked to perfection, take it out of the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. This will help the flavors meld together and make it easier to serve.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
For an extra treat, serve your warm Paleo Apple Crisp with a dollop of coconut cream or almond yogurt. It’s a delightful dairy-free indulgence that everyone will love!
Can I Use Other Sweeteners Besides Maple Syrup?
Absolutely! You can substitute honey for maple syrup since they are similar in sweetness and consistency. If you’re looking for low-sugar options, consider using a few drops of stevia or erythritol, adjusting to your sweetness preference.
What Type of Apples Work Best for This Recipe?
Fuji and Honeycrisp apples are great choices due to their sweetness and firmness. However, you can also use Granny Smith for a tart flavor or a mix of different apples for a more complex taste!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Paleo Apple Crisp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Microwaving is also an option, just do it in short intervals to avoid making it soggy.
Can I Make This Apple Crisp Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the topping and fill the baking dish a day ahead. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, simply take it out of the fridge and bake according to the instructions. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge!