Paleo Apple Crisp (Coconut Topping)

I’ve been making this paleo apple crisp for over 10 years, and it’s still one of the most requested desserts in my kitchen. Everyone loves it!

This paleo apple crisp brings all the cozy, spiced flavor of the classic fall dessert—but with a lighter, cleaner twist. Made without oats, grains, or refined sugar, it’s the perfect alternative to traditional apple crisp for those following a paleo diet or simply looking for a feel-good dessert that won’t weigh you down. The topping is golden and crisp, the apples are warm and tender, and the whole dish tastes just like the original—only easier on your stomach.

Whether you're baking for a crowd or just want a wholesome treat on a chilly night, this grain-free apple crisp hits all the right notes. It’s sweet but not too sweet, comforting without being heavy, and every bite delivers that classic cinnamon-apple goodness we all crave in autumn. It pairs beautifully with a scoop of ice cream or a drizzle of almond cream.

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Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Yield: 5 servings

Ingredients

Apple Bottom:

• 4-5 apples, peeled, cored, and diced

• 2 teaspoons cinnamon

• 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice

• 2 tablespoons honey

Crumble Topping:

• 1 1/2 cups shredded coconut

• 2 tablespoons coconut flour

• 3 tablespoons tapioca flour

• 1/4 cup coconut palm sugar

• 1/8 teaspoon sea salt

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 5 tablespoons palm shortening or butter, chilled

Supplies

• 8x8 inch glass baking dish

• medium mixing bowl

• large mixing spoon

Method

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.

2. Line the glass baking dish with the apples. Then combine the cinnamon, lemon juice, and honey with the apples. Mix well (1-2 minutes) until all the apples are coated.

3. In a medium mixing bowl combine all the ingredients for the crumble topping.

4. Use your fingers to press the shortening into the other ingredients. Make sure to combine everything really well but leave some bigger chunks. Make sure there isn’t any loose coconut or flour.

5. Drop the crumble mixture on the top of the apples until fully covered.

6. Bake for 20-25 minutes.

Tips

• I also made this recipe with pears instead of apples and it reminded me of porridge. It smells like traditional apple crisp and had a consistency like oatmeal. If you substitute pears for apples only bake for 10-15 minutes.

• I have also substituted chilled butter for the shortening and it works perfectly.

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Let Us Know

Have you tried this recipe? Share your thoughts in the comments below—I’d love to hear how it turned out for you!

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