This is the best apple crisp you will ever have if you like a lot of crumbly topping and don’t like oats, like me. Yes, it is possible to find an apple crisp without oats recipe… and my mom gives this five stars.

This is one of my favorite desserts and my favorite way to make this is by using simple ingredients that do not include an oat topping. The best part of this easy apple crisp recipe is that the crumble topping will last for days if it’s in an airtight container.

I bake mine in a glass dish that’s about 8×12 inches. This glass casserole baking dish on Amazon is perfect for this apple crisp recipe… and it’s only $20.

Easy Apple Crisp Without Oats and Extra Crisp Recipe [VIDEO]

Apple Crisp Ingredients

• 4 apples (you can use any type of apple – Granny Smith apples, Honeycrisp apples, or picked from an apple orchard during apple season)
• 1 cup of white sugar (some use coconut sugar – you do you!)
• 1 cup of light brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon of nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon of cinnamon (increase this if you love cinnamon apples)
• 1 1/2 cups of flour (feel free to use almond flour if you want)
• 1 stick of unsalted butter – soft, but not melted (you can use cold butter if you’re using a food processor… and yes, vegan butter works here too!)

Apple Crisp Directions

1.) Peel and cut the apples so you have cubed apples that are no bigger than a square inch or sliced apples. While you are doing this, let your oven heat up to 350 degrees.

2.) Put the apples in the bottom of the prepared baking dish and start the crisp topping!

3.) Mix together all of the other ingredients, except the butter.

4.) Slowly add the butter until it is all mixed in.

5.) Sprinkle the topping over the apples and spread it out evenly.

6.) Cover the dish with foil and bake it for 30 minutes.

7.) After the first 30 minutes is up, remove the foil and bake it for 30 more minutes.

8.) Enjoy with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and whipped cream!

To jazz up this easy recipe, try adding lemon juice, maple syrup, caramel sauce, or strawberry rhubarb.

Why no Oats?

Traditional apple crisp recipes often call for oats in the crisp topping, adding a nutty texture and flavor. However, there are several reasons why people might prefer to make apple crisp without oats.

Simply put, I just don’t like them. 

Taste preferences vary widely, and some people do not enjoy the texture or taste of oats in their apple crisp. The absence of oats allows the other ingredients to shine and creates an opportunity to experiment with alternative flavors and textures.

Another reason you may not add them is that you’re on a gluten-free diet. Oats, although naturally gluten-free, can sometimes be cross-contaminated with gluten-containing grains during processing.

This poses a challenge for individuals following a strict gluten-free diet. By removing oats from the recipe, those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease can enjoy a delicious apple crisp without any concerns.

Some individuals may have allergies or sensitivities to oats, which can cause digestive discomfort or other adverse reactions. By omitting oats, you can ensure that everyone can savor the lusciousness of apple crisp without any worries.

 

Oats Substitutions

Now, let’s explore some delightful oat-free substitutions that can elevate your apple crisp experience.

Almond Flour

Replace oats with an equal amount of almond flour for a nutty and gluten-free alternative. Almond flour adds a delicate sweetness and creates a rich, crumbly topping that pairs wonderfully with tender apples.

Quinoa Flakes

Quinoa flakes, made from flattened quinoa seeds, offer a unique texture and a mild nutty flavor. Use them as a 1:1 replacement for oats in your apple crisp recipe to add a delightful twist.

Chopped Nuts

Incorporating finely chopped nuts such as pecans, walnuts, or almonds into the topping will introduce a delightful crunch and depth of flavor. Nuts provide a healthy dose of good fats and can be a wonderful alternative to oats.

Shredded Coconut

For a tropical touch, consider using shredded coconut in place of oats. Its natural sweetness and distinct texture will transform your apple crisp into a delightful and exotic treat.

Granola

Replace oats with a high-quality granola that suits your taste preferences. Choose a variety that complements the flavors of apples, such as cinnamon or honey-infused granola. The added crunch and complexity will take your apple crisp to another level.

Graham Cracker Crumbs

I left my favorite substation for last… and may try this next time. Crushed graham crackers mixed with butter can be an excellent replacement for oats. The resulting crust will be slightly sweeter and have a satisfyingly crisp texture that beautifully complements the soft, cinnamon-spiced apples.

 

Popular Drinks to Pair with Apple Crisp

In the fall, apple crisp celebrates the harvest with its rich apple flavors and autumnal spices. During the holidays, it pairs beautifully with festive flavors like cranberries or a hint of citrus. In the summertime, a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top adds a refreshing touch.

Whether it’s a casual gathering, a holiday feast, or a simple weeknight treat, apple crisp is always a welcome addition. But let’s make sure you’re serving it with a drink to take it to the next level.

Hot Apple Cider

What better way to complement the warm flavors of apple crisp than with a steaming mug of hot apple cider? The aromatic blend of spiced apple cider gently simmered with cinnamon sticks, cloves, and a touch of orange peel creates a delightful harmony of flavors.

Vanilla Chai Latte

The aromatic blend of black tea, warm spices, and creamy vanilla in a vanilla chai latte makes it an excellent companion for apple crisp. The cozy flavors of cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves in the chai complement the apple filling, while the creaminess of the latte adds a luxurious touch.

Spiced Mulled Wine

For a more indulgent and sophisticated pairing, consider serving apple crisp with spiced mulled wine. This warm and fragrant beverage, infused with spices like cinnamon, cloves, and star anise, creates a perfect harmony with the flavors of the dessert.

Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate

Again, I’m saving the best for last here. Indulge your sweet tooth with a decadent salted caramel hot chocolate alongside a serving of apple crisp. The smooth and velvety hot chocolate, with its luscious caramel undertones and a hint of sea salt, creates a luxurious contrast to the crispy texture of the dessert.

I’d love to know how this delicious apple crisp without oat crumble turned out for you. Please find me on Instagram at @ChristinaAllDay and let me know!

I know a lot of people view this as a classic fall dessert, but for me, it’s one of the best desserts I make and eat year-round!

Before you go, click here to see the most popular recipe on my blog, Butter Cake!