This Vegan Apple Crisp is a warm and cozy dessert that’s perfect for any season. Juicy apples topped with a crumbly oat filling make it a hit for everyone!
It’s super easy to make, and the smell while it bakes is just heavenly. I love serving it warm with a scoop of dairy-free ice cream on top. Yum! 🍏✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: Use any firm variety like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji for great flavor and texture. If you prefer sweeter apples, Honeycrisp are perfect. If you can’t find these, any tart, crunchy apples will work well.
Lemon Juice: This adds brightness and balances the sweetness. If you’re out, a splash of apple cider vinegar can serve as a substitute, but lemon is best for flavor.
Brown Sugar: This can be swapped for coconut sugar for a healthier option with a slight caramel flavor. You can also use maple syrup or agave nectar if you want to sweeten the apples naturally.
Coconut Oil: I love using melted coconut oil, but you can also use any neutral oil or vegan butter if you prefer. Just keep in mind, it might change the taste slightly!
Oats: Use old-fashioned rolled oats for the best texture. If you need a gluten-free option, certified gluten-free oats are available. Quick oats can work in a pinch, too, though the texture will be slightly different.
How Do You Get the Perfect Crumbly Topping?
A great oat topping is all about the right mix of dry and wet ingredients. Here are some tips to make sure yours turns out perfectly crumbly and delicious:
- Mix dry ingredients first: Combine oats and flour before adding wet ingredients. This ensures they are evenly coated.
- Use melted coconut oil: This helps bind the topping together while keeping it crumbly. Just melt it gently in the microwave or on the stove.
- Aim for a mix of textures: Don’t be afraid to have some larger clumps in your topping. This gives it a nice crunch once baked.
- Spread evenly: When adding the topping over the apples, try to cover them evenly. This helps with even baking.
With these tips, you’ll create a topping that’s perfectly crisp and complements the tender apples beautifully! Enjoy your baking!
Vegan Apple Crisp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Filling:
- 6 cups apples (about 6 medium-sized; peeled, cored, and sliced)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (can use coconut sugar for a less refined option)
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp salt
For The Topping:
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or whole wheat pastry flour)
- 1/3 cup coconut oil (melted) or vegan butter
- 1/4 cup maple syrup or agave nectar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For Serving (Optional):
- Vegan vanilla ice cream or coconut whipped cream
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Vegan Apple Crisp takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 40 to 45 minutes to bake. Overall, you’ll need around 1 hour to enjoy this delightful dessert from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats up, take out a medium baking dish (about 8×8-inch) and lightly grease it so the crisp doesn’t stick.
2. Prepare the Apple Filling:
In a large bowl, toss together your sliced apples with the lemon juice, 1/4 cup of brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Make sure every slice gets a nice coating! Spread this delicious apple mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
3. Make the Topping:
In another bowl, combine the oats, flour, and the remaining 1/4 cup of brown sugar. Then, add in the melted coconut oil, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Mix it all together until the topping becomes crumbly and well combined.
4. Assemble the Dish:
Now, evenly sprinkle the oat topping over the apples in your baking dish. This will create that wonderful, crunchy layer on top!
5. Bake It:
Place the baking dish in the oven and let it bake for about 40–45 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the topping is golden brown and the apples are tender and bubbling away.
6. Cool and Serve:
Once it’s done baking, take it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This makes it easier to serve. If you like, top your warm apple crisp with vegan vanilla ice cream or coconut whipped cream for an extra treat!
Enjoy your comforting Vegan Apple Crisp, packed with delightful flavors and a lovely crunch! 🍏✨
Can I Use Different Types of Apples?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji apples are great choices, you can use any firm variety. Feel free to mix different kinds for a more complex flavor!
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! Simply use certified gluten-free oats and substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Your apple crisp will still be delicious!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover apple crisp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore its crispiness.
Can I Prepare This Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare the apple filling and oat topping separately a day in advance. Assemble just before baking, and you’ll have a fresh apple crisp ready to go!
