3 Ingredient Gluten Free Apple Dessert
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INGREDIENTS
- 6-8 your favorite apples, peeled and very thinly sliced
- ½ cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon powder
INSTRUCTIONS
- In a small bowl, mix 1/4 cup sugar with cinnamon and set aside.
- Line a loaf pan with parchment paper.
- In a small pot, heat 1/4 cup sugar over medium heat until it turns into caramel (do not stir with a spoon; you can gently tilt the pot to mix). Pour the caramel onto the parchment paper in the pan and spread it evenly. Arrange two layers of apple slices over the caramel and sprinkle with some of the sugar-cinnamon mixture. Add two more layers of apples, press down firmly with your hands, and sprinkle again with the sugar-cinnamon mixture. Repeat with all the apple slices.
- Preheat the oven to 355°F (180°C) and bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove the cake from the oven, flip the pan onto a tray, peel off the parchment paper, and slice thinly.
RECIPE NOTES
MY NOTES
FAQ
Is this gluten free apple dessert dairy free as well?
Yes, this gluten free apple dessert is naturally dairy free, as it only uses apples, sugar, and cinnamon. However, if you choose to add any toppings, like ice cream or whipped cream, make sure they’re dairy free to keep the dessert suitable for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies. A great alternative is serving it with non dairy vanilla ice cream or coconut whipped cream. Always check that any additional crusts or ingredients are both gluten and dairy free to ensure the dish meets dietary needs.
Can I add a crust to this gluten free apple dessert?
Yes, you can add a gluten free crust to this apple dessert for extra texture. Use a store bought gluten free pie crust or make your own. Simply place the crust beneath the apple layers for a firm base or on top as a crispy topping. To prevent the crust from puffing up, pierce it with a fork before baking. This adds a nice contrast to the soft caramelized apples and gives the dessert more structure, making it ideal for serving at gatherings or special occasions.
How do I store this gluten free apple dessert?
Store this gluten free apple dessert in an airtight container and refrigerate it. It will last for up to three days in the fridge. If you’d like to serve it warm, reheat it in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10 to 15 minutes, which will help retain its texture. You can also microwave individual portions, but the apples might become slightly softer. This makes it easy to prepare the dessert ahead of time, ideal for those planning meals for family events or busy weeknights.
Can I use honey instead of sugar in the recipe?
Yes, you can substitute honey for sugar in this gluten free apple dessert. Honey will add a natural sweetness and a subtle floral flavor. However, keep in mind that honey doesn’t caramelize the same way sugar does, so the texture may be a bit softer. If using honey, reduce the amount to about one third cup since honey is sweeter than sugar. You may also want to reduce the oven temperature slightly to prevent burning, as honey can brown more quickly during baking.
What type of apples work best for this gluten free dessert?
Tart apples like Granny Smith are the best choice for this gluten free apple dessert, as their acidity balances the sweetness of the sugar and cinnamon. These apples also hold their shape well when baked. However, you can mix in sweeter varieties like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala for a more complex flavor profile. The combination of tart and sweet apples adds depth, creating a perfect balance of flavors. If you want a softer texture, go for apples that are naturally sweeter and less firm.
How long does it take to prepare and bake?
This gluten free apple dessert takes approximately 15 to 20 minutes to prepare, which includes peeling and slicing the apples and layering them in the pan. Baking time is around 45 minutes at 180°C (350°F), so the total time is about 1 hour. It’s a fairly quick and easy recipe, perfect for last minute desserts or when you want to make something simple yet impressive. With only three ingredients, it requires minimal effort but still delivers a delicious, sweet treat that’s gluten free and customizable.
Can I freeze the gluten free apple dessert for later use?
Yes, you can freeze this gluten free apple dessert to enjoy later. Allow the dessert to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer safe container or bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to serve, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10 minutes. Freezing the dessert is a convenient option for meal prepping or saving leftovers, especially for busy schedules or holiday preparation.
How can I make the dessert less sweet?
To make this gluten free apple dessert less sweet, you can reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe by half or substitute it with a natural sweetener like maple syrup or coconut sugar. Additionally, using tart apples like Granny Smith will offset the sweetness of the sugar and cinnamon. You can also omit the caramel layer if desired, which will result in a more subtle sweetness. Adjusting the balance of sweetness can make the dessert lighter while still retaining its delicious, fruit forward flavor.
What toppings pair well with this gluten free apple dessert?
Vanilla ice cream is a classic pairing for this gluten free apple dessert, especially if you want to contrast the warm apples with something cool and creamy. For a dairy free option, try coconut or almond based ice creams. You can also top it with whipped cream, chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce. Adding a sprinkle of powdered sugar or fresh mint leaves can enhance the presentation and flavor, making this dessert even more inviting for guests.
