Microwave Apple Crisp Without Oats 🍎 – Quick, Gluten-Free Dessert for Craving Busters!
A 10-minute gluten-free, oat-free apple crisp made entirely in the microwave! Perfect for fall cravings or last-minute desserts.
Craving warm apple crisp but short on time? This microwave version skips oats and gluten entirely, taking just 10 minutes to make! Using almond flour and Greek yogurt, it's a healthy twist that still delivers that classic cinnamon-kissed apple flavor. Whether you're feeding a family or satisfying a solo craving, this recipe proves you don't need a oven to make dessert magic happen.
Imagine this: you've just come home from a long day, and the smell of warm apples fills your kitchen. No preheating, no messy oven cleanup—just a microwave-safe bowl and a few simple ingredients. This recipe is designed for those moments when you want something comforting but don't have hours to wait.
The almond flour topping adds a nutty richness that complements the tart apples, while the Greek yogurt topping provides a tangy contrast and protein boost. Best of all, it's completely customizable—add walnuts for crunch, switch up the spices, or serve it warm with a scoop of vegan ice cream.
This recipe is especially perfect for people with dietary restrictions. The absence of oats and gluten makes it safe for celiac sufferers and those avoiding grains. Plus, the microwave method means no cross-contamination risks from shared ovens. It's also ideal for college students, busy parents, or anyone who wants to enjoy dessert without the hassle.
Let's dive into how this simple combination of ingredients creates a dessert that's anything but basic!
Ingredients
- 2 cups diced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 2 tbsp almond flour
- 1 tbsp melted butter or coconut oil
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg (optional)
- 1 tbsp brown sugar or maple syrup
- 2 tbsp Greek yogurt (plain or vanilla)
- 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Step 1: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine apples, almond flour, melted butter, cinnamon, nutmeg, and brown sugar. Mix until apples are evenly coated.
- Step 2: Microwave on high for 5 minutes. Let sit 2 minutes to cool slightly.
- Step 3: In a small bowl, mix Greek yogurt with vanilla extract. Dollop over warm apples.
- Step 4: Microwave for an additional 1-2 minutes to heat through. Serve immediately.
Why This Recipe Works
⏰ Zero Kitchen Hassle
No oven preheating, no mixing bowls, no cleanup! Just one microwave-safe bowl for easy cleanup. Perfect for dorm rooms or tiny kitchens.
💰 Budget-Friendly
Uses pantry staples like apples, almond flour, and yogurt. Most ingredients cost under $5 total, making it one of the most affordable desserts around.
👥 Dietary Inclusive
Gluten-free, oat-free, and easily made vegan with coconut oil and non-dairy yogurt. A dessert that works for everyone at the table.
🌟 Surprisingly Filling
The Greek yogurt adds protein and creaminess, making this more satisfying than you'd expect from a 10-minute treat.
Microwave Apple Crisp Without Oats
Gluten-free, 10-minute dessert magic
🛒 Ingredients
- - 2 cups diced apples
- - 2 tbsp almond flour
- - 1 tbsp melted butter
- - 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- - 2 tbsp Greek yogurt
👨🍳 Instructions
Prepare Filling: In microwave-safe bowl, combine apples, almond flour, butter, cinnamon, and sugar. Mix thoroughly.
💡 Use a fork to mash apples slightly for better texture.
Microwave: Cook on high for 5 minutes. Let sit 2 minutes to cool slightly.
💡 Check microwave power level—adjust time if needed.
Add Topping: In small bowl, mix Greek yogurt with vanilla extract. Dollop over warm apples.
💡 For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of cinnamon on top.
Final Microwave: Heat for 1-2 minutes to warm through. Serve immediately.
💡 Serve with extra Greek yogurt or a dollop of whipped cream.
Nutrition (per serving):
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Almond Flour
Provides a nutty, gluten-free alternative to oats. Slight oiliness helps create a crisp texture. Substitutions: Use sunflower seed flour for a nut-free option, or crushed gluten-free cornflakes.
Greek Yogurt
Adds tangy creaminess and protein. Substitutions: Use coconut yogurt for vegan version, or sour cream for a richer texture.
Apples
Granny Smith holds up best in microwave, but Honeycrisp adds juiciness. Substitutions: Use pears or peaches for seasonal variations.
Brown Sugar
Adds molasses depth. Substitutions: Use coconut sugar for lower glycemic index, or maple syrup for vegan option.
Pro Tips for Perfect Apple Crisp
🍴 Apple Prep
Toss apples with lemon juice (1/2 tsp) before microwaving to prevent browning and enhance flavor.
🔥 Microwave Power
Adjust time for microwave wattage: 1000W = 5 minutes, 1200W = 4 minutes. Check for doneness!
🥄 Topping Variations
Try 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans mixed into the almond flour for added crunch.
❄️ Make Ahead Tip
Prep the apple mixture up to 24 hours ahead. Store in fridge and microwave when ready to serve.
Variations & Customizations
Spiced Pumpkin Version
Add 1/4 cup pureed pumpkin to the apple mixture. Increase spices to 1 tsp cinnamon + 1/2 tsp nutmeg.
Citrus Twist
Mix in 1 tbsp orange zest and reduce cinnamon to 1/4 tsp for a fresh, zesty flavor.
Nutty Delight
Stir in 2 tbsp chopped walnuts or pecans into the almond flour topping for extra texture.
Vegan Upgrade
Use coconut oil instead of butter and vegan yogurt. Add 1/2 tsp maple extract for extra sweetness.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
🍽️ Best Served With:
- Vanilla ice cream (traditional) or vegan sorbet (modern twist)
- Warm cinnamon-spiced chai or black tea
- Mini chocolate chip cookies for a dessert platter
🍷 Drink Pairings:
Pair with a glass of Riesling for a sweet-savory balance, or a spiced apple cider for seasonal flair.
Make-Ahead Instructions & Storage
Make-Ahead Tips
Prepare apple mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Store in airtight container in fridge. Top with yogurt just before microwaving.
Refrigerator Storage
Store in airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in microwave for 1-2 minutes before serving.
Freezer Storage
Freeze apple mixture for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in fridge before microwaving.
Reheating Instructions
For best results, reheat in microwave for 1-2 minutes. Avoid oven reheating which can dry out the apples.
Troubleshooting & Common Questions
Q: Apples are too runny?
A: Use Granny Smith apples which hold their shape better. You can also drain excess liquid on paper towels before microwaving.
Q: Topping doesn't brown?
A: This is normal in microwave cooking. For a browned effect, try using a higher wattage microwave or add a tbsp of ghee for richer color.
Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Yes, but use two separate microwave-safe bowls. Doubling in one bowl may cause uneven cooking.
Q: How to make it sweeter?
A: Add 1-2 tsp additional brown sugar or maple syrup. You can also sprinkle a bit of turbinado sugar on top before serving.
Final Thoughts
This microwave apple crisp proves that you don't need a oven to make comforting, homemade desserts. It's perfect for those moments when you crave something warm and sweet but don't have time to preheat the oven. The almond flour adds a unique nutty flavor that works beautifully with the cinnamon-spiced apples.
What I love most about this recipe is its adaptability. Want to make it vegan? Use coconut oil and vegan yogurt. Need to accommodate a nut allergy? Swap the almond flour for sunflower seed flour. The possibilities are endless, which is why this has become one of my go-to quick desserts during fall and winter.
Next time you're craving something cozy, remember this simple 10-minute solution. Just a microwave, a few ingredients, and you're ready to enjoy warm, spiced apples with a creamy yogurt topping. Happy cooking!
