This Vegan Apple Crisp is a warm, comforting dessert filled with sweet, juicy apples and topped with a crunchy oat mixture. It’s simple to make and perfect for sharing!
The best part? You don’t need any animal products here! I love serving it with a scoop of dairy-free ice cream on the side. Trust me, it’s a sweet treat that won’t disappoint!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: I love using Granny Smith for their tartness, but Honeycrisp or Fuji also work nicely. If you can’t find these, any cooking apple will do. Just avoid eating apples that are too soft!
Coconut Sugar: This adds a lovely caramel-like sweetness. If you prefer a different sweetener, brown sugar or maple syrup can be good alternatives. Remember, maple syrup will add more moisture to your mix, so adjust as needed.
Oats: Old-fashioned rolled oats are best for that crunchy texture. If you need a gluten-free version, certified gluten-free oats are available. Instant oats will work too, but they may not provide the same crunch.
Oil: Coconut oil gives a subtle coconut flavor, which I enjoy. If you’re not a fan, try using melted vegan butter or a neutral-flavored oil like sunflower or canola oil.
How Do I Get the Oat Topping Just Right?
The oat topping is key to a delightful apple crisp. To achieve that perfect crunch, ensure the ingredients are well-mixed. Here’s how:
- Mix oats, flour, and nuts in a bowl.
- Pour in melted coconut oil and vanilla, then stir until crumbly; it should hold together when squeezed.
- Avoid over-mixing! A few larger clumps add a great texture in the bake.
This topping will get golden and crispy while baking. Just keep an eye on it, as oven temperatures can vary!
Vegan Apple Crisp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 6 cups apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and sliced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/2 cup coconut sugar (or brown sugar)
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp cornstarch or arrowroot powder
For the Topping:
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/2 cup whole wheat flour (or all-purpose flour)
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
- 1/2 cup coconut sugar (for topping)
- 1/3 cup melted coconut oil (or vegan butter)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For Serving:
- Vegan vanilla ice cream (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 40-45 minutes to bake. Let it cool slightly, and you’ll have a delightful dessert that’s perfect for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×9 inch baking dish with some coconut oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Toss the Apples:
In a large bowl, toss your sliced apples with the lemon juice. This not only adds brightness to the filling but also helps keep the apples from browning. Then, mix in 1/2 cup of coconut sugar, the cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and cornstarch, ensuring the apples are well coated. Pour this sweet apple mixture into your greased baking dish.
3. Make the Oat Topping:
In another bowl, combine the rolled oats, flour, chopped nuts, and the remaining 1/2 cup of coconut sugar. Mix it up well! Next, drizzle in the melted coconut oil and vanilla extract. Stir until everything is crumbly and mixed evenly. This will be the delicious topping for your apples!
4. Assemble and Bake:
Evenly sprinkle the oat topping over the apple mixture in the baking dish. Bake it in your preheated oven for 40-45 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the topping is golden brown and the apple filling is bubbling around the edges.
5. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove your apple crisp from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This will help it set a bit. Serve warm, and if you like, top each serving with a scoop of vegan vanilla ice cream for that extra special touch!
Enjoy your warm and cozy vegan apple crisp! It’s perfect for sharing with family and friends or enjoying all on your own.
Can I Use Different Types of Apples?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are great choices, feel free to experiment with other apples like Fuji, Gala, or even a mix. Just aim for a balance of sweet and tart for the best flavor.
What Can I Substitute for Coconut Sugar?
If you don’t have coconut sugar, brown sugar is a perfect alternative. You could also use maple syrup, but keep in mind that it will change the texture slightly, making the filling a bit more moist.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover apple crisp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat it in the oven at a low temperature or in the microwave until warmed through.
Can This Recipe Be Made Gluten-Free?
Yes! To make it gluten-free, simply substitute the whole wheat flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the oats you use are certified gluten-free as well.
