This recipe delivers all the warmth and comfort of a classic apple crumble, but without any dairy! It's perfect for those with dairy allergies or intolerances, or simply anyone who wants a delicious and healthier alternative. This gooey, cinnamon-spiced treat is sure to become a family favorite.
What Makes This Recipe Dairy-Free?
The key to creating a truly delicious dairy-free apple crumble lies in the substitutions. We'll be replacing traditional butter and milk with plant-based alternatives that deliver incredible flavor and texture. Specifically, we'll be using coconut oil in the crumble topping for its rich flavor and melting properties, and almond milk in the filling to provide moisture and a subtle nutty taste. Feel free to experiment with other plant-based milks like oat milk or soy milk depending on your preference.
Ingredients:
For the Apple Filling:
- 6 medium apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix), peeled, cored, and sliced
- 1/4 cup almond milk (or other plant-based milk)
- 1/4 cup maple syrup (or other liquid sweetener)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
- Pinch of salt
For the Crumble Topping:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup almond flour (or other gluten-free flour)
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut (unsweetened)
- 1/2 cup coconut oil, melted
- 1/4 cup maple syrup (or other liquid sweetener)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a medium-sized baking dish (approximately 8x8 inches or similar).
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Prepare the apple filling: In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, almond milk, maple syrup, cornstarch, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and salt. Toss gently to coat the apples evenly.
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Prepare the crumble topping: In a separate bowl, combine the rolled oats, almond flour, shredded coconut, melted coconut oil, maple syrup, and cinnamon. Mix until well combined and crumbly.
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Assemble the crumble: Pour the apple filling into the prepared 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. If the topping browns too quickly, loosely cover the dish with foil.
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Cool: Let the crumble cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm, perhaps with a scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream or a dollop of coconut whipped cream!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Can I use other types of apples?
Yes! The best apples for crumble are tart-sweet varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, Braeburn, or a mix. Avoid overly soft apples as they may become mushy during baking.
What can I substitute for almond milk?
Other plant-based milks like oat milk, soy milk, or even rice milk will work well. The flavor will be slightly different, but it won't significantly impact the crumble's texture.
Can I make this crumble ahead of time?
You can prepare the apple filling and crumble topping separately a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Assemble and bake just before serving for the best results.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover crumble in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it gently in the microwave or oven.
Is this crumble gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use certified gluten-free oats and almond flour. Always double-check ingredient labels to ensure they are gluten-free.
This delicious dairy-free apple crumble is a perfect example of how easy it is to create healthy and satisfying desserts without compromising on flavor. Enjoy!
