Sweet without sugar! Fall’s favorite dessert, reimagined for low-glycemic living.
This sugar-free apple crisp replaces refined sugar with monk fruit sweetener and uses almond flour for a gluten-free, low-glycemic dessert that still delivers rich, buttery flavor. Perfect for fall gatherings or cozy nights in!
Whether you’re avoiding sugar for health reasons or just want a lighter dessert option, this recipe satisfies your cravings without the glycemic spike. The monk fruit sweetener caramelizes beautifully, while the almond flour topping adds a nutty crunch.
Ready in 30 minutes, this dessert is ideal for last-minute guests or a post-dinner treat. The recipe is adaptable for make-ahead prep, and the cinnamon-spiced apples pair perfectly with vegan vanilla ice cream or coconut whipped cream.
With its warm autumnal colors and cozy aroma, this apple crisp feels indulgent yet wholesome. The absence of refined sugar doesn’t mean you’re sacrificing flavor—this dessert is rich, aromatic, and utterly satisfying.
Let’s dive into why this recipe works so well and how to make it your own!
Why This Recipe Works
Sugar-Free Without Sacrifice
Monk fruit sweetener caramelizes like sugar but with zero glycemic impact. The almond flour topping adds richness while keeping the dessert gluten-free and low-carb.
Quick & Easy
Ready in 30 minutes with minimal prep. No need for a food processor—just mix with a fork or whisk.
Customizable for Dietary Needs
Use vegan butter for a dairy-free version, or substitute coconut oil for a tropical twist. The recipe is naturally nut-free if you omit the almond flour topping.
Autumnal Comfort
Cinnamon, nutmeg, and caramelized apples evoke fall’s cozy essence. The golden-brown topping is irresistibly crunchy.
Perfect for Sharing
Serves 6, making it ideal for small gatherings or family dinners. Leftovers freeze beautifully for later enjoyment.
Sugar-Free Apple Crisp Recipe
Sweet without sugar—fall’s favorite dessert, reimagined.
🛒 Ingredients
- - 3 cups thinly sliced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- - 1/4 cup monk fruit sweetener
- - 1/4 cup almond flour
- - 1/4 cup melted butter (or coconut oil)
- - 1 tsp cinnamon
- - 1/2 tsp nutmeg
- - 1/4 tsp salt
👨🍳 Instructions
Prep Apples: Toss apple slices with monk fruit sweetener, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Place in a 9x9-inch baking dish.
💡 Use a mandoline for even slices to ensure even cooking.
Make Crumble: In a bowl, mix almond flour, melted butter, salt, and remaining cinnamon until crumbly.
💡 For extra crunch, chill the crumble mixture for 10 minutes before baking.
Bake: Spread crumble over apples. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, until golden and bubbly.
💡 Cover loosely with foil if the top browns too quickly.
Nutrition (per serving):
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Monk Fruit Sweetener
Monk fruit sweetener caramelizes beautifully and has zero glycemic impact. Substitute 1:1 for sugar in this recipe.
Substitutions: Erythritol or allulose work similarly. Avoid stevia or liquid sweeteners.
Almond Flour
Adds a nutty, crumbly texture. Use finely ground almond flour for even baking.
Substitutions: Coconut flour (use 1/2 cup and add 1 egg for binding) or gluten-free oat flour.
Butter
Provides rich flavor and helps the crumble crisp up. Use vegan butter for a dairy-free version.
Substitutions: Coconut oil or ghee for a tropical twist.
Apples
Granny Smith apples hold up best, but Honeycrisp adds a juicy sweetness. Avoid overly soft varieties.
Substitutions: Pears or peaches for a different flavor profile.
Pro Tips for Perfect Sugar-Free Apple Crisp
Crispy Topping
Chill the crumble mixture for 10 minutes before baking to ensure it stays crumbly, not soggy.
Oven Temperature
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Avoid opening the oven during baking to prevent temperature drops.
Topping Texture
The crumble should resemble coarse gravel. If it sticks to your hands, add 1-2 tbsp more almond flour.
Cooling Tip
Let the crisp cool for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the filling to set and prevents runny bites.
Variations & Customizations
Vegan Version
Use vegan butter, coconut oil, and a dairy-free whipped topping. The crisp remains deliciously rich.
Tropical Twist
Substitute apples with mango or pineapple. Add shredded coconut to the crumble topping for a Caribbean flair.
Single-Serving
Scale down to 1/2 the recipe for a personal dessert. Bakes in a 6-ounce ramekin for 20 minutes.
Spiced Apple Crisp
Add 1/4 tsp cardamom or 1/2 tsp vanilla extract to the apple mixture for extra warmth.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
🍽️ Best Served With:
- Vegan Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture balances the crisp’s crunch.
- Coconut Whipped Cream: A dairy-free topping that adds lightness.
- Warm Cinnamon Roll: A double dose of autumnal comfort in one meal.
🍷 Drink Pairings:
Pair with a spiced chai tea or a dry riesling for a cozy, fall-inspired meal.
Make-Ahead Instructions & Storage
Make-Ahead Tips
Prepare the crumble topping up to 24 hours ahead. Store in an airtight container at room temperature.
Refrigerator Storage
Store leftover crisp in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
Freezer Storage
Freeze baked crisp for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat for 15-20 minutes.
Reheating Instructions
For best results, reheat in the oven rather than the microwave to maintain the crumble’s texture.
Troubleshooting & Common Questions
Q: Why is my topping soggy?
A: The apples may be too juicy. Toss them with 1/4 tsp cornstarch before baking to absorb excess moisture.
Q: Can I use a different sweetener?
A: Yes! Erythritol or allulose work well. Avoid liquid sweeteners like agave or maple syrup.
Q: How to make this nut-free?
A: Substitute almond flour with gluten-free oat flour or a grain-free flour blend.
Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Yes! Use two 9x9-inch baking dishes. Adjust baking time by 5-10 minutes for larger quantities.
Final Thoughts
This sugar-free apple crisp proves you don’t need refined sugar to enjoy a rich, satisfying dessert. With monk fruit sweetener and almond flour, it’s a guilt-free indulgence that fits seamlessly into low-glycemic or diabetic-friendly diets. The recipe’s simplicity and adaptability make it a staple for fall gatherings or cozy family dinners.
Whether you’re a dessert enthusiast, a health-conscious baker, or someone seeking a lighter alternative to traditional apple crisp, this recipe delivers on flavor, texture, and convenience. Try it with vegan ice cream or as a single-serving treat, and you’ll see why it’s a must-try for the season.
