If you’re like me, you love indulging in desserts that not only taste amazing but are also guilt-free. That’s why I’m excited to share this Paleo Apple Crisp recipe with you. It’s a comforting, crumbly treat that’s gluten-free, dairy-free, and refined sugar-free. Whether you’re following a Paleo diet or just looking for a healthier dessert option, this apple crisp will hit the spot.
Let’s dive into how to make this delicious dessert, starting with the ingredients and tools you’ll need.
Ingredients List
For the Apple Filling:
- 2 apples, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp arrowroot starch (or tapioca flour)
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- A squeeze of fresh lemon juice
For the Crumble Topping:
- ¼ cup almond flour
- ¼ cup roughly chopped raw nuts (a mix of cashews and walnuts works great)
- 3 tbsp unsweetened shredded coconut
- 2 tbsp coconut sugar
- 2 tbsp ghee (or substitute with vegan butter, regular butter, or coconut oil)
- ¼ tsp ground cinnamon
- A pinch of salt
Required Kitchen Tools
Having the right tools makes preparing this Paleo Apple Crisp simple and enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Sharp Knife & Peeler: For peeling and slicing the apples.
- Cutting Board: To safely prep your ingredients.
- Medium Bowl: For mixing the crumble topping.
- Spatula: To evenly spread the crumble over the apples.
- 5″x5″ Baking Dish: The perfect size for this small-batch dessert.
With these tools ready, you’re all set to whip up this irresistible apple crisp.
Preparing the Paleo Apple Crisp
Now that we’ve got our ingredients and tools ready, it’s time to jump into the preparation process. This recipe is straightforward and comes together quickly, making it perfect for a weeknight dessert or a special occasion.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your apple crisp bakes evenly and develops that golden, crispy topping.
Step 2: Prepare the Apple Filling
In a medium bowl, toss the thinly sliced apples with arrowroot starch, ground cinnamon, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. The arrowroot starch helps thicken the juices released by the apples during baking, while the cinnamon and lemon juice add warmth and brightness to the flavor.
Once mixed, transfer the apple mixture to your 5″x5″ baking dish. Spread them out evenly to create a flat layer—this will ensure every bite has a perfect balance of tender apples and crunchy topping.
Step 3: Make the Crumble Topping
In another medium bowl, combine almond flour, chopped raw nuts, shredded coconut, coconut sugar, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Add the ghee (or your chosen substitute), and use your hands to incorporate it into the dry ingredients. The mixture should resemble coarse crumbs when it’s ready.
Step 4: Assemble the Apple Crisp
Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the apple layer in your baking dish. Press down gently with your hands or a spatula to ensure it adheres slightly to the apples. This step helps create that irresistible crunchy layer once baked.
Baking the Paleo Apple Crisp
Now that our apple crisp is assembled, it’s time to bake it to perfection. This step is where all the magic happens—the apples soften into a warm, cinnamon-infused filling, while the crumble topping turns golden and crisp.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden
Place the assembled baking dish into your preheated oven and bake at 350°F for about 35 minutes. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes to ensure the topping doesn’t over-brown. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden and slightly crisp, and you can see the apple juices bubbling around the edges.
Step 6: Cool Slightly
Once baked, remove the apple crisp from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. This cooling period allows the juices to thicken further, making it easier to serve without falling apart.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
This Paleo Apple Crisp is best enjoyed warm. For an extra indulgent touch, top it with a scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream or a dollop of coconut whipped cream. The combination of warm apples, crunchy topping, and creamy ice cream is absolutely divine!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use other fruits instead of apples?
Absolutely! This recipe is versatile, and you can substitute apples with pears, peaches, or even a mix of berries. Just keep in mind that different fruits may have varying moisture levels, so you might need to adjust the arrowroot starch accordingly.
2. What’s the best type of apple to use for this recipe?
I recommend using firm, slightly tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. They hold their shape well during baking and provide a nice balance to the sweet crumble topping.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the apple filling and crumble topping separately a day in advance. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge, then assemble and bake when you’re ready to serve.
4. Is there a way to make this nut-free?
Of course! You can replace the chopped nuts with additional shredded coconut or sunflower seeds for a nut-free version that still has plenty of crunch.
5. How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes to restore the crisp texture.
Conclusion
This Paleo Apple Crisp is a wholesome dessert that doesn’t compromise on flavor or texture. With its tender, cinnamon-spiced apples and crunchy, nutty topping, it’s a treat that satisfies both your sweet tooth and your health-conscious side. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or enjoying it solo with a cozy cup of tea, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
The best part? It’s incredibly easy to customize—swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand or your dietary needs, and you’ll still end up with a delicious result. So grab your baking dish and give this Paleo Apple Crisp a try. Trust me, your kitchen will smell heavenly, and your taste buds will thank you!
