This vegan gluten-free apple crisp is the perfect cozy dessert, featuring tender cinnamon apples topped with a buttery oat crumble. It’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Traditional apple crisp often includes butter and flour, making it off-limits for those following a vegan and gluten-free diet. This recipe utilizes simple substitutions to recreate those classic flavors and textures while remaining accessible to everyone.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Apple Filling:
- 6 medium apples, such as Honeycrisp, Gala, or Fuji
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Gluten-Free Crumble Topping:
- 1 cup rolled oats (certified gluten-free)
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Vegan and Gluten-Free Apple Crisp Ingredients
Let’s Get Baking!
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease an 8×8 inch baking dish.
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Prepare the apples: Wash, peel, and core the apples. Slice them into thin wedges, about 1/4 inch thick.
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Make the apple filling: In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, maple syrup, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Toss well to coat the apples evenly.
Combining Ingredients for the Apple Filling
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Prepare the crumble topping: In a separate bowl, combine the rolled oats, almond flour, chopped nuts (if using), melted coconut oil, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until the ingredients are well combined and crumbly.
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Assemble the apple crisp: Transfer the apple filling to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the apples, pressing down gently.
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Bake to perfection: Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are tender when pierced with a fork.
Baking the Vegan Gluten-Free Apple Crisp
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Cool slightly before serving: Allow the crisp to cool for at least 15 minutes before serving. This will allow the filling to thicken slightly.
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Enjoy! Serve warm with a scoop of vegan vanilla ice cream or a dollop of vegan whipped cream for the ultimate comforting dessert.
Tips for the Best Vegan Gluten-Free Apple Crisp
- Apple Selection: You can use a variety of apples in this recipe. For a tart flavor, use Granny Smith. For a sweeter crisp, choose Honeycrisp or Gala apples.
- Nutty Topping: Feel free to experiment with different nuts in the crumble topping. Pecans, walnuts, and almonds all work well.
- Make it Ahead: You can assemble the apple crisp ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
FAQs
Can I use a different sweetener instead of maple syrup?
Yes, you can use agave nectar or brown rice syrup as a substitute for maple syrup in both the filling and topping.
Can I make this recipe oil-free?
For an oil-free version, you can substitute the coconut oil in the crumble topping with an equal amount of unsweetened applesauce.
Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
While you can use quick oats, keep in mind that they may result in a slightly mushier topping.
Do I need to peel the apples?
Peeling the apples is a matter of preference. If you prefer a smoother texture, peeling is recommended. However, leaving the peels on adds extra fiber and nutrients.
What can I serve with vegan apple crisp?
This apple crisp is delicious on its own, but it can also be paired with a scoop of vegan vanilla ice cream, a dollop of vegan whipped cream, or a drizzle of vegan caramel sauce.
“Using a combination of almond flour and oats creates the perfect texture for a gluten-free crumble topping. And remember, the key to a flavorful crisp is to use a variety of apples!” – Sarah Thompson, Vegan Pastry Chef
This easy vegan gluten-free apple crisp is the perfect way to enjoy the flavors of fall. It’s a simple and delicious dessert that everyone can enjoy.
