This Apple Crisp Without Oats is warm, buttery, and bursting with sweet cinnamon flavor — just like the classic version, but with a crisp, crumbly topping made entirely without oats. The buttery streusel bakes into a golden crust that perfectly complements the tender, spiced apples beneath. It’s simple, comforting, and perfect for fall gatherings or cozy desserts at home.

 

What Is Apple Crisp Without Oats?

 

Apple Crisp Without Oats is a variation of traditional apple crisp that swaps the oat topping for a crumbly, buttery streusel made from flour, sugar, and butter. The result is a dessert similar to an apple crumble — soft, caramelized apples on the bottom and a crisp, cookie-like topping that melts in your mouth.

 

Reasons to Try Apple Crisp Without Oats

 

Simple ingredients – Uses pantry staples you already have.

 

No oats needed – Perfect for those who prefer a smoother, cookie-style topping.

 

Warm and comforting – Soft apples and a golden buttery crust.

 

Easy to make – Minimal prep and quick to assemble.

 

Versatile – Ideal for both everyday desserts and holiday gatherings.

 

Customizable – Add nuts, caramel, or spices to your liking.

 

Family favorite – Loved by kids and adults alike.

 

Ingredients Needed to Make Apple Crisp Without Oats

 

For the apple filling:

 

6 medium apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji work well)

 

2 tablespoons lemon juice

 

⅓ cup granulated sugar

 

¼ cup brown sugar

 

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

 

¼ teaspoon nutmeg

 

1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

 

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

 

For the topping:

 

1 cup all-purpose flour

 

½ cup brown sugar (packed)

 

¼ cup granulated sugar

 

½ teaspoon cinnamon

 

¼ teaspoon salt

 

½ cup unsalted butter (cold and cubed)

 

Optional:

 

¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch

 

Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for serving

 

Equipment Needed

 

9×9-inch or 8×8-inch baking dish

 

Two mixing bowls

 

Peeler and knife

 

Whisk or fork

 

Pastry cutter or fingertips

 

Oven

 

Instructions to Prepare Apple Crisp Without Oats

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

 

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.

 

Step 2: Prepare the Apples

 

Peel, core, and slice the apples into thin, even pieces. Place them in a large mixing bowl. Add lemon juice, sugars, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, and cornstarch (if using). Toss until the apples are evenly coated.

 

Step 3: Arrange the Apple Filling

 

Spread the spiced apple mixture evenly in the greased baking dish. Press down lightly so it forms an even layer.

 

Step 4: Make the Crumb Topping

 

In another bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Whisk gently to mix. Add cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to rub the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with small buttery bits.

 

Step 5: Add Topping to the Apples

 

Sprinkle the crumbly topping evenly over the apple layer, covering all the apples completely. Avoid pressing it down too firmly — you want a crumbly texture once baked.

 

Step 6: Bake

 

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the apple filling is bubbling around the edges. The topping should be crisp, and the apples tender.

 

Step 7: Cool and Serve

 

Remove from the oven and let the crisp cool for about 10 minutes before serving. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a classic touch.

 

What Goes Well With Apple Crisp Without Oats

 

Vanilla Ice Cream – Melts perfectly over the warm crisp.

 

Whipped Cream – Light and fluffy topping for contrast.

 

Caramel Sauce – Adds rich sweetness to every bite.

 

Custard – Creamy and smooth side for a traditional dessert feel.

 

Cinnamon Sugar Sprinkle – Enhances aroma and presentation.

 

Hot Coffee or Tea – Completes the cozy experience.

 

Key Tips for Making Apple Crisp Without Oats

 

Use firm apples – Granny Smith or Honeycrisp hold their shape best while baking.

 

Keep butter cold – Cold butter ensures a crumbly, crisp topping.

 

Cut apples evenly – Promotes even baking and consistent texture.

 

Don’t overmix the topping – Stop when the butter pieces are pea-sized.

 

Add cornstarch if juicy – Helps thicken the filling and prevent sogginess.

 

Watch baking time – The topping should be crisp and lightly golden.

 

Rest before serving – Allows the filling to set and flavors to blend beautifully.

 

Creative Variations of Apple Crisp Without Oats

 

Caramel Apple Crisp – Drizzle caramel sauce over the apples before adding the topping.

 

Nutty Apple Crisp – Mix chopped walnuts or pecans into the topping for crunch.

 

Cinnamon Roll Crisp – Add extra cinnamon and drizzle glaze on top before serving.

 

Maple Apple Crisp – Replace some sugar with maple syrup for a deep, rich flavor.

 

Gluten-Free Version – Use almond flour or a gluten-free blend instead of regular flour.

 

Apple Berry Crisp – Add 1 cup of blueberries or raspberries for a fruity twist.

 

Spiced Apple Crisp – Add cloves, ginger, or allspice for more warmth.

 

Storage Guidelines for Apple Crisp Without Oats

 

Refrigerate leftovers – Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

 

Freeze for later – Wrap tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months.

 

Thaw before reheating – Defrost overnight in the refrigerator.

 

Avoid covering when warm – Let it cool before storing to prevent the topping from softening.

 

Reheating Tips for Apple Crisp Without Oats

 

Oven method: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes until warm and crisp.

 

Microwave method: Heat single portions for 30–45 seconds (note: topping will soften slightly).

 

Air fryer method: Reheat at 320°F (160°C) for 5 minutes to bring back crunch.

 

Nutritional Value (per serving)

 

Calories: 330

 

Fat: 13g

 

Carbohydrates: 52g

 

Protein: 2g

 

Fiber: 3g

 

Sugar: 32g

 

Sodium: 170mg

 

Final Words

 

This Apple Crisp Without Oats delivers all the comforting flavors of a traditional apple dessert — tender, spiced apples topped with a rich, buttery crumble that melts in your mouth. It’s simple to prepare, irresistibly delicious, and perfect for serving warm with a scoop of ice cream. One bite of this easy fall favorite, and it’ll quickly become a family tradition.