BHA & BHT Free Paleo Apple Crisp with Almond & Pecan Topping
Warm spiced apples bubbling beneath a golden, nutty crumble — this dessert is the kind of thing that makes the whole kitchen smell incredible. The filling layers tart apple slices with maple syrup, cinnamon, ginger, and a touch of lemon juice, while arrowroot starch helps everything thicken into a glossy, jammy base. The topping brings serious texture: almond flour, roughly chopped pecans, and shredded coconut come together with coconut oil and maple syrup into a coarse, clumping crumble that bakes up beautifully crunchy. Every single ingredient here is whole and unprocessed, which means no synthetic preservatives like BHA or BHT hiding in packaged mixes, flavored oils, or store-bought toppings. That's actually where a lot of conventional crisp recipes quietly sneak in additives — through pre-made crumble blends or shelf-stable fats — so building this one from scratch puts you fully in control. The result is a dessert that feels indulgent but is made entirely from real, recognizable pantry staples. Let it rest for a few minutes after baking so the filling sets up just enough to scoop cleanly into bowls.
About FigFig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.
Learn more →Ingredients
6 servings
For the apple filling
- 6 medium apples (about 2 ½ lb), peeled, cored, and sliced ¼-inch thick
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tbsp arrowroot starch
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp ground ginger
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
For the crumble topping
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1 cup raw pecans, roughly chopped
- ¼ cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 3 tbsp maple syrup
- 3 tbsp coconut oil, melted
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp fine sea salt
Instructions
- 1
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch baking dish with a small amount of coconut oil.
- 2
In a large mixing bowl, toss the sliced apples with the maple syrup, arrowroot starch, cinnamon, ginger, and lemon juice until every slice is evenly coated. Transfer the apple mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread into an even layer.
Want the full recipe?
Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!