Name: Peanut Butter Apple Crumble (Gluten Free, Dairy Free) Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 5 medium apples, cored and diced (about 2 lbs); 1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon arrowroot starch (arrowroot powder); 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; ½ cup natural peanut butter; ¼ cup pure maple syrup; 1½ cups old-fashioned rolled oats; ¼ cup almond flour; ¼ cup chopped dry roasted peanuts; ½ teaspoon sea salt; ¼ cup solid coconut oil, not melted

Jump to Recipe·Leave a Review

If you have a sweet tooth but want to stay gluten and dairy free, the Peanut Butter Apple Crumble (Gluten Free, Dairy Free) Recipe is about to become your new obsession. Imagine tender, cinnamon-spiced apples baked under a luscious peanut butter oat topping that perfectly balances creamy, crunchy, and sweet—all without an ounce of gluten or dairy. This treat is cozy enough for chilly evenings and sophisticated enough to impress your guests, making it a versatile, feel-good dessert or snack you'll reach for again and again.

Ingredients You'll Need

The image shows a white marbled surface with several white bowls and clear glass bowls arranged neatly. The largest bowl, at the bottom left, is filled with small cubes of red-skinned apples. To its right is a small white bowl with amber liquid, likely syrup. Above that is a large white bowl filled with rolled oats, showing a dry, flaky texture with a pale beige color. To the left of the oats bowl is a medium-sized white bowl of smooth, light brown peanut butter. Above it is a clear bowl filled with mixed chopped nuts in shades of brown and cream. Next to that is a small white bowl with white granulated sugar. Beside it is a small clear bowl containing brown cinnamon powder. Above and to the right is a clear bowl with white powdered sugar. Below it is another clear bowl with white coconut oil, looking soft and opaque. The arrangement is clean, organized, and brightly lit. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These simple, wholesome ingredients come together to create a dish bursting with flavor and texture. Each plays a key role, from the juicy apples to the nutty, crunchy topping that defines this crumble’s irresistible character.

5 medium apples, cored and diced: These bring natural sweetness and a tender base that complements the crumble perfectly.
1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon arrowroot starch: A gluten-free thickener that keeps the apple filling just right.
3 tablespoons pure maple syrup: Adds a gentle sweetness and depth of flavor to the fruit.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: The warm spice that elevates the apple mixture with classic cozy notes.
½ cup natural peanut butter: Our star ingredient that lends creamy richness to the topping.
¼ cup pure maple syrup: Blends seamlessly into the crumble for subtle sweetness.
1½ cups old-fashioned rolled oats: Offers hearty texture and the perfect chewiness to the topping.
¼ cup almond flour: Adds nutty warmth and helps bind the crumble together.
¼ cup chopped dry roasted peanuts: Introduces delightful crunch and boosts peanut flavor.
½ teaspoon sea salt: Enhances all the sweet and nutty flavors beautifully.
¼ cup solid coconut oil, not melted: Keeps the topping crisp and flaky as it bakes.

How to Make Peanut Butter Apple Crumble (Gluten Free, Dairy Free) Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

Start by preheating your oven to 350ºF. Toss your diced apples with arrowroot starch, maple syrup, and cinnamon in a medium bowl. The starch will thicken the juices released as the apples bake, while cinnamon and maple syrup enhance the fruit’s natural sweetness. Spread this fragrant apple mixture evenly in an 8×8 or 9×9-inch baking dish to create a juicy, flavorful base.

Step 2: Mix the Peanut Butter Crumble Topping

Using the same bowl, combine the natural peanut butter and the remaining maple syrup. Next, add rolled oats, almond flour, chopped peanuts, and sea salt, mixing well with a fork or spatula. The mixture will be sticky but should hold together nicely. Finally, fold in the solid coconut oil—keeping it unmelted is key to achieving that perfect crumbly texture after baking.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

Gently spoon and press the peanut butter crumble evenly over the apple filling in the baking dish. Bake uncovered for 25 minutes, allowing the topping to start browning. Then tent the dish loosely with foil to prevent burning and bake for an additional 30 minutes. This slow bake ensures the apples become tender while your topping crisps to golden perfection. Let the crumble cool for a few minutes before diving in—this rest helps all the flavors settle and the topping firm up slightly.

How to Serve Peanut Butter Apple Crumble (Gluten Free, Dairy Free) Recipe

A white square baking dish filled with a crumbly, golden-brown oat topping mixed with small pieces of peanuts covering the entire surface. The oat topping looks crunchy and textured with some peanuts scattered on top. The dish is placed on a white marbled surface with a beige and white striped cloth partially under it. Around the dish, there is a white bowl with peanuts and a white plate with metal forks, adding context to the scene. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

This crumble loves a little extra flair, so consider topping it with a dollop of coconut whipped cream or a drizzle of warmed maple syrup for that extra touch of indulgence. A sprinkle of extra chopped roasted peanuts adds crunch and visual appeal that’s sure to impress.

Side Dishes

Because it’s naturally rich and satisfying, this dessert pairs wonderfully with a scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream or alongside a warm, spiced chai tea. For a brunch twist, serve it with a side of fresh fruit salad to add brightness and color to your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Nothing says cozy like serving this Peanut Butter Apple Crumble (Gluten Free, Dairy Free) Recipe straight from the baking dish at the table. For a more formal affair, spoon individual portions into pretty ramekins and garnish with fresh mint leaves or a thin apple slice fan. You could even add a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes to elevate the nutty notes in the crumble topping.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. The crumble tastes fantastic cold or at room temperature, but letting it sit out for a few minutes after refrigeration really brings back the texture and flavor.

Freezing

This recipe freezes beautifully. To freeze, wrap the whole dish tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or transfer portions into freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to three months—just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

For best results, reheat individual portions in the oven at 325ºF for about 10-15 minutes until warm and crisp. Microwaving works too if you’re in a hurry, but you might lose some of that delightful crunch on top.

FAQs

Can I use other types of nuts instead of peanuts?

Absolutely! Walnuts or pecans work well in the crumble topping and add their own unique flavor and crunch. Just keep the quantity the same for the best texture balance.

Is this recipe suitable for a diabetic-friendly diet?

The recipe relies on natural sweeteners like maple syrup and fruit, so it has a moderate glycemic impact. It’s best to enjoy it in moderation and consider adjusting maple syrup amounts based on your dietary needs.

Can I make this recipe nut-free?

To keep it nut-free, substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter and omit the chopped peanuts. The crumble will still taste amazing and maintain its texture.

Why do I need to keep the coconut oil solid?

Using solid (not melted) coconut oil helps achieve that classic crumble texture—light, flaky, and crispy. Melted oil would make the topping too wet and dense.

What if I don’t have arrowroot starch?

You can substitute arrowroot starch with cornstarch or tapioca starch in equal amounts. These will thicken the apple filling just as effectively.

Final Thoughts

This Peanut Butter Apple Crumble (Gluten Free, Dairy Free) Recipe is a heartwarming treat that feels like a hug in dessert form. With its perfect balance between sweet, nutty, and fruity, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be baking it again and again for family, friends, or a special cozy night in.