Description
This Vegan Apple Crisp is a wholesome, oil-free dessert featuring spiced apple slices baked under a crunchy oat and whole wheat flour topping sweetened naturally with maple syrup. Perfectly balanced with warm cinnamon and nutmeg, this comforting treat is ideal for a cozy autumn day or anytime you crave a healthy, plant-based dessert.
Ingredients
For the Apple Filling
- 7 apples, any kind
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp cinnamon
- ¼ tsp nutmeg
- ½ tsp salt
For the Crisp Topping
- 1 cup old fashioned oats
- ½ cup whole wheat flour
- ½ cup all purpose flour
- 1 tbsp cinnamon
- ¼ tsp nutmeg
- ½ cup maple syrup
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking the apple crisp.
- Prepare Apples: Peel and slice the apples into even pieces. Using a variety of apple types can enhance the flavor. Place the sliced apples in a large mixing bowl.
- Mix Apple Filling: Add lemon juice, maple syrup, cornstarch, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt to the apples. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are combined and the apples are evenly coated.
- Arrange in Baking Dish: Transfer the apple mixture into a 9″ x 13″ baking dish and evenly spread it. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to keep moisture in while baking.
- Bake Apples: Bake the covered apples in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. This softens the fruit and allows the flavors to meld.
- Prepare Topping: While the apples bake, combine oats, whole wheat flour, all purpose flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a medium bowl. Stir in the maple syrup until the mixture forms a crumbly but moist texture.
- Add Topping: After the initial baking, remove the baking dish from the oven. Take off the foil and evenly spread the oat crumble topping over the apples, breaking up any large clumps with your fingers.
- Bake Crisp: Return the baking dish to the oven uncovered and bake for an additional 25 minutes until the topping is golden brown and crisp.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the apple crisp from the oven and let it cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. Optionally, serve topped with vegan whipped cream or vegan ice cream for extra indulgence.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to maintain freshness.
Notes
- Using a mix of sweet and tart apples will add depth to the flavor.
- You can substitute whole wheat flour with gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option.
- Maple syrup acts as a natural sweetener; adjust quantity based on your sweetness preference.
- The cornstarch helps to thicken the apple juices during baking, preventing the crisp from becoming soggy.
- Allow the crisp to cool slightly before serving to let the filling set properly.
- For a nutty crunch, consider adding chopped nuts to the topping, keeping in mind it will no longer be nut-free.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American