Homemade Apple Crisp Without Butter Perfect for Fall

Let me tell you, there’s absolutely nothing like the smell of warm apples mingling with cinnamon and nutmeg filling your kitchen on a chilly autumn day. It’s like a cozy blanket for your senses—a comfort that instantly transports you back to crisp fall mornings and family gatherings. The first time I made this apple crisp without butter, I honestly didn’t know what to expect. Could it really deliver that same nostalgic flavor and texture without butter? Spoiler alert: it absolutely did, and then some!

This recipe was born out of necessity. One rainy weekend, I was craving something warm and sweet but realized I was out of butter. With a pantry full of apples and oats, I decided to experiment. The result? A perfectly spiced, tender apple filling topped with a golden, crunchy oat topping that’s every bit as indulgent as the classic version. My family couldn’t stop sneaking bites straight from the dish, and honestly, I can’t blame them. It’s the kind of dessert that feels like a warm hug in every spoonful.

Whether you’re whipping this up for a potluck, a cozy holiday dinner, or just to brighten a regular Tuesday, this apple crisp is bound to become your go-to. It’s simple, adaptable, and oh-so-satisfying. Bookmark this recipe—trust me, you’ll want to make it again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: This recipe comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for last-minute dessert cravings or impromptu gatherings.
• No Butter Needed: Whether you’re out of butter or avoiding dairy, this crisp uses alternative fats for that same rich, satisfying crunch.
• Simple Ingredients: Everything you need is likely already in your pantry—no fancy shopping trips required.
• Perfect for Fall: Nothing says autumn like warm baked apples and cozy spices. This dish is ideal for seasonal gatherings or a quiet night in.
• Crowd-Pleaser: From kids to grandparents, this apple crisp always gets rave reviews.
• Unbelievably Delicious: The tender spiced apples paired with the crunchy oat topping is dessert perfection.

What makes this recipe truly special is its versatility. You can easily customize the sweetness level, swap out ingredients to suit your diet, or add your own creative twist. And the best part? It’s the kind of dessert that makes you close your eyes and savor every bite. Comfort food at its finest.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to deliver bold flavor and a satisfying texture without the fuss. You probably already have most of these on hand!

• Apples: About 6 medium-sized apples, peeled, cored, and sliced thinly. I love using Granny Smith for their tartness, but Honeycrisp or Fuji work beautifully too.
• Brown Sugar: ½ cup packed. Adds rich, caramel-like sweetness to the crisp.
• Rolled Oats: 1 cup. Go for old-fashioned oats to ensure that perfect crunch.
• All-Purpose Flour: ½ cup. Helps bind the topping together.
• Coconut Oil: ½ cup, melted. A fantastic dairy-free alternative to butter that adds a lovely hint of richness.
• Cinnamon: 2 teaspoons. The quintessential fall spice that pairs so well with apples.
• Nutmeg: ½ teaspoon. Adds warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
• Salt: ¼ teaspoon. Enhances all the flavors beautifully.
• Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon. Keeps the apples bright and balances the sweetness.
• Optional Add-Ins: Chopped nuts or a sprinkle of ground ginger for extra texture and flavor.

Feel free to experiment with substitutions—swap coconut oil for avocado oil or use gluten-free flour if needed. This recipe is wonderfully flexible!

Equipment Needed

• Baking Dish: A 9×13-inch dish works perfectly for this recipe.
• Mixing Bowls: One large bowl for the apples and one medium bowl for the topping.
• Peeler and Paring Knife: Essential for peeling and slicing the apples thinly.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For mixing the topping ingredients.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precision matters for the perfect balance of flavors.
• Whisk: Helpful for combining dry ingredients evenly.

If you don’t have a 9×13-inch dish, you can use two smaller dishes or even individual ramekins for single servings. And don’t worry if you don’t own a fancy peeler—a regular knife works just fine!

Preparation Method

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease your baking dish with non-stick spray or a thin coat of coconut oil.
2. In a large mixing bowl, toss the sliced apples with lemon juice, ¼ cup of the brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Make sure the apples are evenly coated. Transfer the mixture to the baking dish and spread it out evenly.
3. In a medium bowl, combine the oats, flour, remaining brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Whisk to combine.
4. Pour the melted coconut oil over the dry topping mixture and stir until everything is well combined. The mixture should be crumbly but hold together when pressed lightly.
5. Sprinkle the oat topping evenly over the apples, making sure to cover them completely.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are tender. You’ll know it’s ready when your kitchen smells like pure autumn heaven!
7. Let the crisp cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows the topping to set up a bit and makes it easier to scoop.

Pro tip: If your topping seems too dry, drizzle a little more melted coconut oil before baking. And if the apples are extra juicy, place a baking sheet under the dish to catch any drips.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Here are a few tried-and-true tips to ensure your apple crisp turns out perfectly every time:

• Choose the Right Apples: Go for firm varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp to avoid a mushy filling.
• Slice Apples Evenly: Thin, uniform slices cook evenly and ensure a tender, juicy texture.
• Don’t Skimp on Spices: The cinnamon and nutmeg are what make this dish sing—don’t hold back!
• Keep Topping Crumbly: If your topping feels too wet, add a bit more oats or flour to get that perfect crumbly texture.
• Bake Until Golden: The topping should be golden brown, not pale. This ensures a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the soft apples.

Remember, practice makes perfect. If your first attempt isn’t exactly how you imagined, tweak the recipe, and try again!

Variations & Adaptations

• Gluten-Free Option: Use almond flour or a gluten-free baking mix in place of all-purpose flour.
• Nut-Free: Skip any optional nuts and use seeds like sunflower or pumpkin for added crunch.
• Seasonal Fruit Swap: Replace apples with pears, peaches, or berries for a fresh twist.
• Lower Sugar Version: Reduce the brown sugar by half and add a touch of honey or maple syrup for sweetness.
• Spiced Variation: Add ground ginger or cardamom for a unique flavor profile.

One fun personal twist I’ve tried is adding a handful of dried cranberries to the apple filling for a tart, festive flavor. It’s perfect for holiday gatherings!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Apple crisp is best served warm, straight from the oven, with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Pair it with a hot cup of cider or tea for the ultimate fall treat.

For leftovers, let the crisp cool completely and cover the dish tightly with foil or transfer to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave or pop the dish back in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes.

If you’d like to freeze it, assemble the crisp but don’t bake it. Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding an extra 10 minutes to the cooking time.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Here’s a rough estimate per serving (based on 8 servings):

• Calories: 250
• Fat: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 3g

Apples are a great source of dietary fiber and vitamin C, while oats provide heart-healthy whole grains. This recipe is also dairy-free, making it suitable for lactose-intolerant individuals. Just be mindful of the sugar content if you’re watching your carbs!

Conclusion

There’s something magical about a simple dessert that brings so much warmth and joy. This homemade apple crisp without butter is proof that you don’t need fancy ingredients to create something truly special. It’s customizable, comforting, and perfect for celebrating the cozy moments of fall.

Give this recipe a try and make it your own! I’d love to hear how you adapt it—drop a comment below or share your thoughts. Happy baking, and here’s to creating sweet memories around the table!

FAQs

Can I use coconut sugar instead of brown sugar?

Yes, coconut sugar works well as a substitute and adds a slightly caramel-like flavor.

What type of apples are best for apple crisp?

Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji apples are ideal because they hold their shape when baked.

Can I make this apple crisp ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Bake it fresh when you’re ready to serve.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

Swap the all-purpose flour for almond flour or a gluten-free baking mix.

Can I use margarine instead of coconut oil?

Yes, margarine can be used as an alternative if you prefer or have it on hand.

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