Gluten-Free Apple Crumble

A true classic for cosy evenings, this Gluten-Free Apple Crumble is a dessert that never goes out of style. Whether it’s the middle of autumn or you’re just craving something sweet and warming, this recipe ticks all the boxes. It’s one of those nostalgic bakes that brings you right back to your childhood. The smell of buttery crumble topping and bubbling apples filling the house is pure comfort.

Enjoy it warm with a generous spoon of custard, a dollop of whipped cream, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. And if there are leftovers (a big if in our house), trust me, it makes a spectacular breakfast the next morning too! 😉

What Apples Work Best?

The beauty of this recipe is that you can use whatever apples you have on hand. Personally, I love the tartness of Granny Smith apples, but Golden Delicious or Fuji are great too. You can even use a mix of sweet and tart apples for a bit of balance.

The Perfect Oaty Crumble Topping

Some traditional apple crumbles skip the oats, but I’m firmly in the crispy oat topping camp. I use gluten-free oats for extra texture and crunch, it gives the crumble that golden, toasty finish that’s just irresistible.

You can also add chopped nuts like pecans or almonds to your crumble for a nutty twist. It’s optional, but adds a delicious extra crunch.

Make Ahead & Freezer Friendly

One of the best things about this gluten-free apple crumble is how easy it is to make ahead. You can prep it earlier in the day, keep it in the fridge, and pop it in the oven when ready. You can even freeze it before baking. Perfect for busy weeks or last-minute guests.

Tried this recipe? I’d love to see your delicious creations! Tag me on Instagram @laurasglutenfreekitchenblog – I might even share your post!

Gluten-Free Apple Crumble

This Gluten Free Apple Crumble is an easy, classic dessert with a crispy oat topping and warm spiced apples. Perfect with ice cream, cream or custard.

Author: Lauras Gluten Free Kitchen Cooking Method: Baked Cuisine: British Courses: Desserts Recipe Keys: Christmas Dessert Pudding

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Prep Time 15 mins Cook Time 30 mins Total Time 45 mins Difficulty: Intermediate

Ingredients

Servings

FOR THE FILLING:

• 6 large apples (I used Granny Smith)
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)
• 3 tbsp gluten free plain flour
• 2 tbsp water
• ⅓ cup granulated sugar
• ½ tsp cinnamon
• ¼ tsp nutmeg

FOR THE CRUMBLE:

• ¾ cup gluten free plain flour
• ⅔ cup packed brown sugar
• ½ cup gluten free oats
• ¼ tsp cinnamon
• ¼ tsp salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter (cut into cubes)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350F/180C/Gas mark 4.
2. Grease a 9'' x 9'' baking dish.
3. Peel and slice the apples into thin slices about ⅛ - ¼ inch thick.
4. Whisk together the melted butter, flour, water, sugar, cinnamon & nutmeg.
5. Pour the mixture over the sliced apples and toss to coat.
6. Spoon the apples into the greased pan.
7. In a medium bowl stir together the flour, brown sugar, oats, cinnamon & salt.
8. Add in the butter and rub it in using a pastry cutter or rub the butter into the dry ingredients using your fingers. At the end it should be crumbly in texture, but no large chunks of butter should remain. Add this crumble mixture overtop the apple mixture.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and you can see the apples bubbling around the edges of the pan.
10. Remove from the oven and cool for at least 10 minutes before serving.
11. Serve with Custard, Cream or vanilla Ice-cream.

Notes

Apple tip: Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a more flavourful filling.

Texture boost: Add nuts or seeds to the topping for extra crunch.

Make ahead: Assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

Freezer tip: Freeze assembled crumble for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen with an additional 10–15 minutes.

Serving suggestion: Delicious with custard, cream, or vanilla ice cream.