Satisfy your sweet tooth with keto-friendly coconut flour and erythritol
This low-carb apple crisp redefines comfort food with coconut flour and erythritol, creating a keto-friendly dessert that bakes to golden perfection in just 25 minutes. The caramelized tart apples with a crunchy coconut flour topping pair beautifully with a scoop of sugar-free vanilla ice cream.
Perfect for fall gatherings or a cozy night in, this recipe maintains all the flavor of traditional apple crisp while cutting carbs significantly. The coconut flour topping adds a delightful texture without the guilt.
With just 4g net carbs per serving, it's ideal for keto dieters and those managing their carb intake. The erythritol sweetener provides the perfect balance of sweetness without affecting blood sugar levels.
The recipe uses simple ingredients you might already have: tart apples, coconut flour, erythritol, and a few pantry staples. The result is a warm, cinnamon-spiced dessert that feels indulgent yet health-conscious.
Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or sugar-free vanilla ice cream for an extra-special treat that satisfies your dessert cravings without the carb overload.
Why This Recipe Works
⏰ Quick & Easy
Ready in just 40 minutes total, this recipe requires minimal prep and no special equipment. The coconut flour topping comes together in minutes.
💰 Budget-Friendly
Uses affordable ingredients like coconut flour and erythritol that are versatile for other low-carb recipes.
👥 Crowd-Pleasing
The familiar apple crisp flavor with a keto twist makes it a hit at dinner parties and family gatherings.
🌟 Customizable
Experiment with different spices or add-ins like pecans or cinnamon sticks for unique variations.
Low-Carb Apple Crisp Recipe
Coconut flour & erythritol version
🛒 Ingredients
- - 4 cups tart apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp)
- - 1/4 cup erythritol
- - 1 tsp cinnamon
- - 1/2 cup coconut flour
- - 1/4 cup butter (melted)
- - 1/4 tsp sea salt
- - 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- - 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
👨🍳 Instructions
Prepare Apples: Toss sliced apples with 1 tbsp lemon juice to prevent browning. Layer in a 9x9-inch baking dish.
💡 Use tart apples for best flavor and texture
Mix Filling: In a bowl, combine apples with 2 tbsp erythritol, cinnamon, and 1 tbsp butter.
💡 The butter helps create a tender apple base
Make Topping: In another bowl, mix coconut flour, remaining erythritol, melted butter, salt, and vanilla. Add chopped pecans if using.
💡 Coconut flour absorbs liquid quickly, so mix just before adding
Bake: Spread topping over apples. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes until golden and bubbly.
💡 Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center
Serve: Let cool slightly. Serve warm with sugar-free vanilla ice cream.
💡 The topping will firm up as it cools
Nutrition (per serving):
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Coconut Flour
Coconut flour absorbs moisture rapidly, so mix it with wet ingredients just before adding to the apples. It provides a nutty flavor and excellent texture for the topping.
Substitutions: Almond flour (toasted for extra flavor), oat flour (for higher fiber), or a gluten-free flour blend.
Erythritol
This low-calorie sweetener mimics sugar's texture without the carb count. It browns apples beautifully without crystallizing.
Substitutions: Stevia (use 1/3 tsp for every 1 tbsp erythritol), monk fruit sweetener, or allulose.
Apples
Tart varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp hold their shape and provide natural sweetness. Avoid over-ripe apples for best results.
Substitutions: Pears (for a different flavor), or apple sauce (reduce other liquids accordingly).
Butter
Adds richness to both the apple filling and topping. Use unsalted butter for better flavor control.
Substitutions: Coconut oil (adds more tropical flavor), or ghee for a richer taste.
Pro Tips for Perfect Apple Crisp
🎯 Apple Prep
Slice apples uniformly for even cooking. Toss with lemon juice immediately after slicing to prevent browning.
❄️ Chilling
Chill the assembled crisp for 15-30 minutes before baking. This helps the topping form a better crust.
🔥 Baking
Place the baking dish on the lower third of the oven for even heat distribution. Avoid opening the oven during baking.
🍴 Serving
Let the crisp rest for 10 minutes after baking. The topping will firm up and be easier to serve.
Variations & Customizations
Spiced Apple Crisp
Add 1/4 tsp nutmeg and 1/4 tsp cardamom to the apple mixture for warm fall flavors.
Pecan Streusel
Add 1/2 cup chopped pecans to the coconut flour topping for extra crunch.
Cinnamon Sugar Coating
Sprinkle 1 tsp cinnamon and 1 tbsp erythritol over the topping for a sweet crust.
Mini Versions
Use ramekins for individual servings. Bake 15-20 minutes for mini versions.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
🍽️ Best Served With:
- Sugar-free vanilla ice cream - The cold, creamy texture contrasts perfectly with warm crisp
- Whipped cream - Adds lightness without extra carbs
- Cinnamon sticks - For garnish and extra flavor
🍷 Drink Pairings:
Pair with a glass of dry Riesling or Chardonnay to complement the apple flavors. For non-alcoholic options, try sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon.
Make-Ahead Instructions & Storage
Make-Ahead Tips
Prepare the apple filling and topping separately up to 24 hours ahead. Store in airtight containers in the refrigerator.
Refrigerator Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The topping may soften slightly but remains delicious.
Freezer Storage
Freeze unbaked crisp for up to 2 months. Thaw in refrigerator overnight before baking.
Reheating Instructions
Reheat in oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to restore crisp texture. Avoid microwave for best results.
Troubleshooting & Common Questions
Q: Why isn't my topping browning?
A: Coconut flour absorbs moisture quickly. Ensure you're using enough butter in the topping mixture. You can also sprinkle a thin layer of erythritol on top before baking.
Q: How to prevent a soggy base?
A: Chill the assembled crisp for 15-30 minutes before baking. This helps set the topping and prevents it from getting too moist.
Q: Can I use a different sweetener?
A: Yes, but erythritol works best for texture. Stevia or monk fruit can be used but may affect browning. Avoid liquid sweeteners like agave.
Q: What if my apples are too juicy?
A: Toss sliced apples with 1/2 tsp cornstarch before adding other ingredients. This helps absorb excess moisture.
Final Thoughts
This low-carb apple crisp proves you don't have to sacrifice flavor for health. The coconut flour topping adds a delightful crunch while keeping your carb count low. Perfect for keto dieters, diabetics, or anyone looking for a lighter dessert option.
Whether you're hosting a fall gathering or enjoying a quiet evening, this recipe will satisfy your sweet tooth without the guilt. The combination of warm spices, tender apples, and a golden coconut topping makes it a standout dessert that everyone will love.
