Can I make this pear crisp nut-free?

Yes. Use the sunflower seed flour and certified gluten-free oat flour option in place of almond flour, and omit the sliced almonds.

What pears work best?

Ripe but still firm pears work best because they soften while baking without turning mushy. Bartlett, Bosc, or Anjou pears all work well.

Can I make the crisp ahead?

You can assemble the topping and pear filling separately a few hours ahead. Add the topping just before baking so it stays crumbly.

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Quick & Easy

Gluten-Free Spiced Pear and Almond Crisp

Name: Gluten-Free Spiced Pear and Almond Crisp
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 8 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 medium ripe pears, peeled, cored, and sliced; 2 tablespoons maple syrup; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup gluten-free rolled oats; 1 cup almond flour (or for nut-free option, use 3/4 cup sunflower seed flour mixed with 1/4 cup gluten-free oat flour); 1/3 cup light brown sugar, packed; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger; 6 tablespoons coconut oil, melted (or dairy-free butter alternative); Optional:; 1/4 cup sliced almonds (omit for nut-free version)

By Freeflourish Test KitchenReviewed by Freeflourish Editorial TeamPublished Apr 7, 2026 · Updated Jun 30, 2026

American 55 mins glutenfreedairyfreeoptionsnutfreevegetariandessertholidayclassicseasonalfamilyfriendlyeasybudgetfriendly

This gluten-free spiced pear and almond crisp combines tender, cinnamon-scented pears with a crunchy almond and oat topping. With dairy-free and nut-free alternatives, it’s a versatile, family-friendly holiday dessert that's budget-conscious and easy to prepare. Perfect for gluten-free baking lovers seeking quick, comforting seasonal treats.

Prep 15 min

Cook 40 min

Total 55 min

Servings 8

Difficulty easy

Cuisine American

Ingredients

Servings 8

6 medium ripe pears, peeled, cored, and sliced
2 tablespoons maple syrup
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup gluten-free rolled oats
1 cup almond flour (or for nut-free option, use 3/4 cup sunflower seed flour mixed with 1/4 cup gluten-free oat flour)
1/3 cup light brown sugar, packed
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
6 tablespoons coconut oil, melted (or dairy-free butter alternative)
Optional
1/4 cup sliced almonds (omit for nut-free version)

Measured gluten-free ingredients for FreeFlourish spiced pear and almond crisp

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Lightly grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
In a large bowl, combine the sliced pears, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Toss gently to coat the pears evenly.
Transfer the pear mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread into an even layer.
In a separate bowl, mix together the gluten-free rolled oats, almond flour (or seed flour blend), brown sugar, salt, and ground ginger.
Pour the melted coconut oil over the dry ingredients and mix with a fork until the mixture becomes crumbly and evenly moistened.
If using sliced almonds, gently fold them into the topping mixture now.
Evenly sprinkle the topping over the pears in the baking dish.
Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes until the topping is golden brown and crisp, and the pears are bubbling and tender.
Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving to allow the crisp to set.
Serve warm plain or with a dairy-free vanilla ice cream or coconut whipped cream if desired.

Oat almond crumble sprinkled over spiced pears for FreeFlourish pear crisp

Tips

Allergen Overlap Note

Use certified gluten-free oats and check almond flour, oat flour, brown sugar, vanilla, spices, coconut oil, and optional sliced almonds for gluten-free labeling. For a nut-free version, use the sunflower seed flour and oat flour swap, omit sliced almonds, and avoid shared nut-contaminated scoops or baking dishes.

Texture Expectations

The pears should bake until tender and juicy while the topping turns golden, crumbly, and crisp. If the pears are very ripe, slice them a little thicker so they hold shape; if the topping feels dry, add a small drizzle of coconut oil before baking.

Dining With Non-GF Family Note

Serve this crisp from its own gluten-free baking dish with a clean spoon, especially if regular pies, cookies, or wheat-based desserts are nearby. If adding ice cream or whipped topping, use a fresh scoop so crumbs from other desserts do not transfer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this pear crisp nut-free?: Yes. Use the sunflower seed flour and certified gluten-free oat flour option in place of almond flour, and omit the sliced almonds.
What pears work best?: Ripe but still firm pears work best because they soften while baking without turning mushy. Bartlett, Bosc, or Anjou pears all work well.
Can I make the crisp ahead?: You can assemble the topping and pear filling separately a few hours ahead. Add the topping just before baking so it stays crumbly.

Ingredient Replacements

This versatile Gluten-Free Spiced Pear and Almond Crisp can be easily adapted to fit various dietary needs without compromising on taste or texture. Consider these ingredient substitutions:

Nut-Free: Swap almond flour for 3/4 cup sunflower seed flour plus 1/4 cup gluten-free oat flour. Omit sliced almonds in the topping.
Dairy-Free: Use melted coconut oil or your preferred dairy-free butter substitute for the crumb topping.
Vegan: The recipe is naturally vegan, using maple syrup as a sweetener and no animal products.
Gluten-Free: Always ensure oats and oat flour are certified gluten-free to maintain gluten-free compliance.
Lower Sugar: Reduce brown sugar in the topping or replace it with coconut sugar for a natural sweetener alternative.

These adaptations help accommodate dietary restrictions while keeping this recipe a beloved holiday classic that’s quick, easy, and family-friendly.

Storage and Reheating

Store cooled pear crisp covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The topping will soften as it sits, but the flavor will stay warm and spiced.

Reheat portions in a 325 degrees F oven until warmed through and the topping re-crisps slightly. Use a clean gluten-free baking dish or plate when reheating.

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Gluten-Free Spiced Pear and Almond Crisp

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