Thanksgiving is the ultimate feast, filled with cozy vibes, family traditions, and, of course, delicious food. But sticking to your health goals doesn’t mean you have to miss out on dessert! Enter: Gluten-Free Apple Crisp with Spiced Pecan Topping—a healthier twist on a classic that everyone at the table will love.
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of apples, a perfectly spiced crumble topping, and a hint of maple syrup to make a guilt-free dessert that’s bursting with fall flavors. Plus, it’s gluten-free, so it’s a perfect option for those with dietary restrictions.
Why This Apple Crisp Stands Out
1. Naturally Sweetened: The combination of apples, coconut sugar, and maple syrup creates a perfectly balanced sweetness—no refined sugar needed!
2. Packed with Fall Spices: Cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and allspice bring that cozy, warm flavor you crave during the holidays.
3. Wholesome Ingredients: Made with almond flour, coconut oil, and pecans, this recipe is as nutritious as it is delicious.
4. Gluten-Free: The crisp topping uses almond flour instead of traditional wheat flour, so even gluten-sensitive guests can enjoy every bite.
How to Make the Perfect Apple Crisp
Check out the full recipe below to whip up this easy, crowd-pleasing dessert:
Crisp Topping:
- ⅓ cup coconut oil
- 1 cup pecan halves
- ¾ cup blanched almond flour
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- ⅔ cup coconut flakes, unsweetened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
- ¼ teaspoon ground allspice or cloves
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Apple Filling:
- 7 medium apples (Pink Lady or Honeycrisp are ideal), peeled and sliced
- 1 ½ teaspoons cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
- 3 tablespoons coconut sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven: Set to 350°F.
- Make the topping: Pulse all topping ingredients in a food processor until crumbly. Chill in the fridge.
- Prepare the filling: Toss apple slices with spices, coconut sugar, vanilla, and cornstarch. Place in a greased baking dish.
- Assemble and bake: Drop the topping over the apples and bake for 40-45 minutes. Cover with foil if needed to prevent over-browning.
- Cool and serve: Let the crisp cool for at least 30 minutes before serving warm.
Nutrition Highlights
Each serving delivers:
- Calories: 424
- Protein: 4g
- Carbs: 44g
- Fiber: 6g
- Fat: 26g (with heart-healthy fats from pecans and coconut oil!)
Tips for Serving
- Pair with Dairy-Free Ice Cream: Vanilla or cinnamon flavors complement this crisp beautifully.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the topping and filling separately, then assemble and bake fresh before serving.
- Use Seasonal Apples: Choose crisp, tart varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Pink Lady for the best flavor and texture.
Add This to Your Thanksgiving Menu
This gluten-free apple crisp is the perfect addition to your Thanksgiving spread—traditional yet health-conscious, indulgent yet nourishing. Ready to wow your guests with this delicious dessert?
Don’t forget to share the recipe with your friends and family! 🍂
Pro Tip: Pair this dessert with our Protein Cookbook to find more ways to stay on track during the holidays. It’s packed with 30 high-protein recipes to fuel you through the season!
Happy Thanksgiving and happy baking! 🦃🍎