Delightful Vegan Apple Crisp: A Healthy Fall Dessert Adventure

When the air turns crisp and the leaves begin their vibrant transformation, there’s nothing quite like the nostalgia of a warm dessert fresh from the oven. I discovered this Vegan Apple Crisp on one of those cozy autumn afternoons, when the scent of cinnamon stirred memories of family gatherings and laughter. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, it embraces the essence of fall while being effortlessly healthy gluten-free, refined sugar-free, and packed with natural sweetness.

This delightful dessert merges juicy apples with a medley of spices, all topped with a crunchy, crumbly layer that has become a crowd-favorite in my home. In just 20 minutes, you can whip up this treat for weekday indulgence or as a show-stopping finale for your next dinner party. Join me as we dive into this comforting recipe that’s simple and inviting, perfect for those who crave homemade goodness without the fuss of traditional baking. Trust me; your taste buds will thank you!

Why is Vegan Apple Crisp a must-try?

Deliciously warm: The aroma of baked apples, cinnamon, and ginger is the ultimate comfort during cooler months.
Easy to make: With just a quick prep time of 20 minutes, you’ll be savoring this delightful dessert in no time!
Health-focused: This recipe is vegan, gluten-free, and refined sugar-free, making it a wholesome choice for everyone.
Crowd-pleaser: Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy night in, this Apple Crisp is guaranteed to win hearts.
Customizable: Enjoy it as-is or elevate it with toppings like vegan ice cream or a drizzle of caramel for extra indulgence!

Vegan Apple Crisp Ingredients

• Explore the wholesome building blocks of this delightful dessert!

For the Filling

  • Large Crisp Apples – Aim for a mix like Honeycrisp and Granny Smith for the best flavor depth.
  • Dried Cranberries – Adds a touch of sweetness; feel free to omit if you prefer a simpler flavor.
  • Pure Maple Syrup – A natural sweetener that enhances flavor; honey is a good swap if not vegan.
  • Cornstarch – Essential for thickening the apple filling and binding moisture.
  • Lemon Zest & Juice – Brightens the flavors and balances sweetness beautifully.
  • Ground Cinnamon – Infuses warm, spicy notes; a staple in cozy desserts.
  • Ground Ginger – Provides a hint of heat and complexity to the mix.
  • Nutmeg – Enhances warmth; fresher is always better for this.

For the Topping

  • Old Fashioned Rolled Oats – Creates a perfect crumble; ensure they’re gluten-free if needed.
  • Chopped Pecans or Walnuts – Adds a satisfying crunch; toasted for extra flavor, if you desire.
  • Almond Meal – Offers a crispy texture to the topping; a wonderful gluten-free option.
  • Unsweetened Shredded Coconut – Gives chewy texture and flavor; can be skipped if you prefer.
  • Ground Cinnamon (for topping) – Reiterates spiciness and warmth in the crumble.
  • Kosher Salt – A must for balancing all those lovely flavors.
  • Melted Virgin Coconut Oil – Binds the topping and enriches the taste; light olive oil can substitute.
  • Additional Maple Syrup or Honey for topping – Drizzle in for added moisture and sweetness.

How to Make Vegan Apple Crisp

  1. Preheat the Oven:
    First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking for your Vegan Apple Crisp.
  2. Prepare the Filling:
    In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, dried cranberries (if using), maple syrup, cornstarch, lemon zest and juice, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg. Mix until all the apples are evenly coated.
  3. Transfer to Dish:
    Carefully transfer the apple mixture into a baking dish, spreading it out evenly so that every corner is filled with those juicy apples.
  4. Make the Topping:
    In another bowl, mix together rolled oats, chopped pecans or walnuts, almond meal, shredded coconut (if using), ground cinnamon, kosher salt, melted coconut oil, and the additional maple syrup or honey. Stir until the mixture is crumbly.
  5. Assemble the Crisp:
    Evenly spread the topping mixture over the apple filling, ensuring it covers all the apples for a delightful crunch in every bite.
  6. Bake to Perfection:
    Place the dish in the oven and bake for 30-40 minutes or until the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown, creating an inviting, crispy texture.
  7. Cool and Serve:
    Let your Vegan Apple Crisp cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices to thicken for a more delightful experience.

Optional: Top with a scoop of vegan vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Vegan Apple Crisp

Make Ahead Options

These Vegan Apple Crisp components are perfect for busy home cooks and can make your life so much easier! You can prepare the apple filling up to 24 hours in advance by combining the sliced apples, cranberries, maple syrup, cornstarch, lemon zest, and spices in a bowl. Simply cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to use. The topping can also be mixed in advance and stored separately for up to 3 days for the best texture. When you’re ready to enjoy, just assemble the crisp and bake as directed; it will be just as delicious as if made fresh that day! By prepping ahead, you’ll have a cozy dessert ready with minimal effort.

What to Serve with Vegan Apple Crisp?

Indulging in a warm bowl of Vegan Apple Crisp creates the perfect cozy atmosphere for any fall gathering.

  • Vegan Vanilla Ice Cream: This creamy treat adds a delicious contrast to the warm crisp, creating a delightful balance of temperatures.
  • Maple Whipped Coconut Cream: Light and airy, this topping enhances the desserts’ natural sweetness and adds a touch of elegance.
  • Caramel Drizzle: Drizzling vegan caramel sauce over the apple crisp elevates the flavor, introducing sweet, buttery notes that tantalize your taste buds.
  • Chai-Spiced Tea: A warm cup of chai complements the spices in the crisp, wrapping you in a comforting embrace with each sip.
  • Roasted Nuts: A small bowl of lightly salted roasted nuts provides a crunchy, savory contrast, perfect for snacking alongside your dessert.
  • Fresh Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad adds a burst of freshness, balancing the sweetness of the apple crisp while bringing color to your table.
  • Cinnamon-Spiced Coffee: Pair it with a warm cup of coffee sprinkled with cinnamon to amplify those cozy, comforting flavors.

Enjoy these harmonious pairings and watch as your guests savor every bite!

Vegan Apple Crisp Variations

Embrace your inner chef and let your creativity shine as you customize this heartfelt dessert!

  • Nut-Free: Omit pecans or walnuts and replace with sunflower seeds for a delightful crunch without the nuts.
  • Fruit Swap: Use pears or peaches instead of apples for a unique twist that brings out a different flavor profile.
  • Chai Spice: Add ground cardamom and allspice to the filling for an exotic flavor that evokes cozy chai lattes.
  • Extra Crunchy: Incorporate a tablespoon of chia seeds in the topping mixture for added texture and nutritional benefits.
  • Chocolate Drizzle: Wow your guests with a drizzle of melted dark chocolate over the finished crisp for a rich indulgence.
  • Coconut-Infused: Replace some of the coconut oil with coconut cream in the topping for a creamier, more decadent texture.
  • Cinnamon Apple Butter: Spread a thin layer of apple butter on the bottom of the baking dish for a deeper apple flavor.
  • Zesty Kick: Add a splash of bourbon or rum to the filling for a delightful aroma and an adult twist to this family favorite.

How to Store and Freeze Vegan Apple Crisp

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for a warm treat.

Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the assembled but unbaked Vegan Apple Crisp. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and it can be stored for up to 3 months.

Thawing: When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and then bake as directed until golden brown.

Reheating: If you have baked leftovers, reheat in a 350°F oven for about 15-20 minutes to restore that delightful crispy topping.

Expert Tips for Vegan Apple Crisp

  • Apple Selection: Choose a mix of Honeycrisp and Granny Smith apples for the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness in your Vegan Apple Crisp.
  • Uniform Slicing: Cut the apples into uniform slices to ensure they cook evenly and become beautifully tender.
  • Bake Time Check: Keep an eye on the baking process; if the topping browns too quickly, loosely cover it with foil to prevent burning.
  • Cooling Period: Allow the crisp to cool for about 10 minutes before serving to let the juices thicken and create a more enjoyable texture.
  • Optional Add-ins: Experiment with different spices or nuts to personalize your Vegan Apple Crisp to your taste preferences!

Vegan Apple Crisp

Vegan Apple Crisp Recipe FAQs

What type of apples should I use for the Vegan Apple Crisp?
Absolutely! I recommend using a mix of sweet and tart apples, like Honeycrisp and Granny Smith. This combination provides a delightful flavor depth, as the tartness of the Granny Smith complements the sweetness of the Honeycrisp beautifully.

How long can I store the Vegan Apple Crisp in the refrigerator?
You can store your leftover Vegan Apple Crisp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just remember to reheat it in the oven for about 15-20 minutes at 350°F to restore its delightful crunch!

Can I freeze Vegan Apple Crisp?
Yes! In fact, you can prepare the assembled but unbaked Vegan Apple Crisp and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, allowing it to freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake it as directed until golden brown.

What should I do if my topping is too crumbly?
If your topping is too crumbly and doesn’t hold together well, you may want to add a bit more melted coconut oil or maple syrup to the mixture. This will help bind it together better while still keeping that crispy texture.

Is this Vegan Apple Crisp safe for those with nut allergies?
Very! You can easily make this recipe nut-free by replacing the pecans or walnuts with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds. Also, use certified gluten-free oats to ensure there’s no cross-contamination if necessary.

Can I prepare the apple filling ahead of time?
Definitely! You can prepare the apple mixture a day ahead and keep it in the fridge. Just assemble and bake the Vegan Apple Crisp just before you’re ready to serve it to keep that delightful freshness!

Vegan Apple Crisp

Delightful Vegan Apple Crisp: A Healthy Fall Dessert Adventure

Discover the delightful Vegan Apple Crisp, a healthy fall dessert that's gluten-free and refined sugar-free.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Cooling Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Course: DESSERTS
Cuisine: Vegan
Calories: 200

Ingredients
  

For the Filling
  • 6 cups Large Crisp Apples (Honeycrisp and Granny Smith)
  • 1 cup Dried Cranberries optional
  • 1/2 cup Pure Maple Syrup or honey if not vegan
  • 2 tablespoons Cornstarch for thickening
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon Zest
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Ginger
  • 1/4 teaspoon Nutmeg preferably fresh
For the Topping
  • 2 cups Old Fashioned Rolled Oats gluten-free if needed
  • 1 cup Chopped Pecans or Walnuts toasted if desired
  • 1/2 cup Almond Meal
  • 1/2 cup Unsweetened Shredded Coconut optional
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon for topping
  • 1/2 teaspoon Kosher Salt
  • 1/3 cup Melted Virgin Coconut Oil or light olive oil
  • 1/4 cup Additional Maple Syrup or Honey for topping

Equipment

  • Baking dish
  • Mixing bowls

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, dried cranberries, maple syrup, cornstarch, lemon zest and juice, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg. Mix until all the apples are evenly coated.
  3. Carefully transfer the apple mixture into a baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
  4. In another bowl, mix together rolled oats, chopped pecans or walnuts, almond meal, shredded coconut, ground cinnamon, kosher salt, melted coconut oil, and the additional maple syrup or honey. Stir until the mixture is crumbly.
  5. Evenly spread the topping mixture over the apple filling.
  6. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 30-40 minutes or until the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown.
  7. Let your Vegan Apple Crisp cool for a few minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 3gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gSodium: 150mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 4gSugar: 12gVitamin A: 100IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Optional: Top with a scoop of vegan vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!

Leave a Comment

Recipe Rating