This recipe delivers all the comforting goodness of a classic apple crumble without any dairy! It’s perfect for fall evenings, potlucks, or simply satisfying a sweet craving. We've focused on creating a truly delicious crumble that avoids common dairy-free pitfalls – namely, a dry or bland topping. This recipe is designed to be both delicious and adaptable to your specific dietary needs and preferences.
What Makes This Dairy-Free Apple Crumble So Special?
Many dairy-free recipes fall short in texture and taste. This recipe avoids that by using a clever blend of ingredients to create a wonderfully crisp and buttery topping without relying on butter or other dairy products. We also incorporate spices that enhance the natural sweetness of the apples.
Ingredients:
For the Apple Filling:
- 6 medium apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix), peeled, cored, and sliced
- 1/4 cup maple syrup (or other liquid sweetener to taste)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1/4 cup gluten-free rolled oats (optional, for added texture)
For the Dairy-Free Crumble Topping:
- 1 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour (or regular all-purpose flour if gluten isn't a concern)
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted and slightly cooled
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
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Prepare the apples: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, gently toss the sliced apples with maple syrup, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice. If using, add the oats to the apple mixture.
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Make the crumble topping: In a separate bowl, combine the flour, oats, brown sugar, salt, and cinnamon. Add the melted coconut oil and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
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Assemble and bake: Pour the apple mixture into a greased 8x8 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the apples.
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Bake: Bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are tender. Let cool slightly before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Can I use different types of apples?
Yes! A mix of apples often yields the best results. Tart apples like Granny Smith provide a nice balance to sweeter apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji. Avoid overly mealy apples.
What if I don't have maple syrup?
You can substitute maple syrup with other liquid sweeteners like agave nectar, brown rice syrup, or even a little apple juice. Adjust the amount to your liking, keeping in mind that different sweeteners have varying levels of sweetness.
Can I make this crumble ahead of time?
You can assemble the crumble ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Add about 10 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
Is this crumble gluten-free?
This recipe can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free flour and oats. Always check the labels of your ingredients to ensure they are certified gluten-free if you have celiac disease or a severe gluten intolerance.
How can I store leftovers?
Store leftover crumble in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for longer storage.
This dairy-free apple crumble recipe is a delicious and satisfying treat that everyone can enjoy. Its ease of preparation and adaptable nature make it a perfect addition to any fall baking repertoire. Enjoy!
