The Best Vegan Apple Crisp

A warm, spiced, and caramel-kissed apple dessert with a nutty, crispy topping—this vegan apple crisp is the perfect treat for cozy evenings, holiday gatherings, or anytime you’re craving a classic fall dessert with a plant-based twist. Naturally sweetened and gluten-free optional, it’s as wholesome as it is indulgent.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Made in just one bowl for easy cleanup

• Naturally sweetened with coconut and muscovado sugar

• Free of dairy, eggs, and vegan butter

• Gluten-free adaptable

• Warm, tender apples with a crisp pecan-oat topping

• Perfect for holidays or comforting weeknight desserts

• Crowd-pleasing and makes 12 generous servings

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Filling:
8 medium-large apples (half tart like Granny Smith, half sweet like Honeycrisp)
1 lemon, juiced
2/3 cup coconut sugar
1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
3 tablespoons arrowroot starch or cornstarch
1/4 cup fresh apple juice or water
3/4 teaspoon fresh grated ginger (optional, or 1/2 tsp ground ginger)
1 pinch nutmeg (optional)

For the Topping:
1 cup gluten-free rolled oats
1/2 cup almond meal
1/2 cup unbleached all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend)
1/2 cup coconut sugar
1/2 cup muscovado sugar
1/2 cup pecans, roughly chopped
1/4 teaspoon sea salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 cup melted coconut oil or olive oil (or a mix of both)

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (176°C).

2. Peel, core, and thinly slice the apples. Place them in a large mixing bowl.

3. Add the lemon juice, coconut sugar, cinnamon, starch, apple juice, ginger, and nutmeg to the apples. Toss well to coat.

4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.

5. Rinse and wipe out the mixing bowl. Add all topping ingredients and stir to combine. Use your fingers to break up any clumps.

6. Spread the topping evenly over the apples.

7. Bake uncovered for 50 to 60 minutes, or until the apples are very tender and the topping is golden brown.

8. Allow to rest for at least 30 minutes before serving. Serve warm, ideally with coconut whipped cream or vegan vanilla ice cream.

Servings and timing

Servings: 12
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Variations

• Nut-Free: Omit the pecans and replace almond meal with oat flour or more gluten-free flour.

• Oil-Free: Substitute the coconut oil with unsweetened applesauce for a lighter topping.

• Berry Twist: Add fresh or frozen berries to the apple mix for a tangy contrast.

• Spice It Up: Include cardamom or clove for a more complex spice profile.

• Different Fruits: Try pears, peaches, or plums instead of apples for seasonal variety.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
For longer storage, freeze in an airtight container for up to 1 month.
To reheat, microwave individual servings for 30–60 seconds or warm the entire dish in a 350°F (176°C) oven until heated through.

FAQs

How do I keep the topping crispy after storing?

Reheat in the oven instead of the microwave to help the topping regain its crisp texture.

Can I make this apple crisp ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the filling and topping separately, refrigerate, and assemble just before baking.

What are the best apples to use for this recipe?

A mix of tart Granny Smith and sweet Honeycrisp provides the perfect flavor balance and texture.

Can I use store-bought apple juice?

Yes, but use unsweetened apple juice to keep the sweetness in check.

Is there a substitute for muscovado sugar?

You can use organic brown sugar as a substitute with similar flavor and moisture.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely—just use certified gluten-free oats and a gluten-free flour blend.

Can I leave out the pecans?

Yes, omit them or replace with sunflower seeds for a nut-free crunch.

What’s the best way to slice apples for crisp?

Thin, uniform slices (around 1/4-inch thick) help the apples cook evenly and absorb the flavors.

Can I use pre-sliced or frozen apples?

Yes, but thaw and drain frozen apples to avoid excess liquid in the crisp.

How do I serve vegan apple crisp?

Serve warm with vegan vanilla ice cream or coconut whipped cream for a classic combo.

Conclusion

This vegan apple crisp is everything you love about fall desserts: sweet, spiced, tender, and crisp. It’s easy to prepare, adaptable to various diets, and perfect for serving a crowd or enjoying solo with a cozy blanket. Whether for a festive holiday or a simple Sunday treat, this crisp will become a favorite in your kitchen.

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