This Vegan Apple Crumble delivers all the comfort and warmth of traditional apple crumble while being completely plant-based. Whether you’re vegan, dairy-free, or simply looking to try something deliciously different, this recipe will become your go-to dessert for cozy gatherings and quiet evenings at home.
Picture this: tender, spiced apples nestled beneath a golden, crispy oat topping that’s perfectly sweet and wonderfully textured. Each bite offers the perfect balance of soft, cinnamon-kissed fruit and crunchy, buttery-tasting crumble that nobody would ever guess is dairy-free. This dessert proves that plant-based baking can be every bit as indulgent and satisfying as traditional recipes.
Why You’ll Love This Vegan Apple Crumble
• Effortlessly delicious – Ready in under an hour with minimal prep work and maximum flavor payoff
• Perfect flavor harmony – Warm cinnamon and nutmeg complement the natural sweetness of baked apples beautifully
• Incredibly flexible – Swap apples for pears, add berries, or experiment with different spice blends to make it your own
• Ideal for any occasion – Whether it’s a casual weeknight treat or a special holiday gathering, this crumble fits perfectly
Ingredient Highlights & Notes
The beauty of this vegan apple crumble lies in its simplicity. You’ll want to choose apples that hold their shape when baked – think Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn varieties. The oat-based topping creates that irresistible crunch we all crave, while coconut oil provides the richness traditionally found in butter-based recipes.
Feel free to play around with the spice blend – a touch of cardamom or ginger can add lovely warmth, and a splash of vanilla extract never goes amiss. The key is balancing the tartness of the apples with just enough sweetness to let their natural flavors shine.
For the Apple Filling:
- 6 large apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work beautifully), peeled and sliced
- 1/3 cup brown sugar (coconut sugar works too for refined sugar-free option)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or oat flour for gluten-free)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (Ceylon cinnamon has the most delicate flavor)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (freshly grated is amazing if you have it)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (prevents browning and adds brightness)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (pure vanilla makes a difference)
For the Crumble Topping:
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats (not quick oats – you want texture!)
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour (substitute with oat flour if needed)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed for maximum flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (enhances all the other flavors)
- 1/3 cup coconut oil (solid/room temperature, not melted)
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup (adds lovely depth)
Equipment & Tools
- 9×13 inch baking dish (or 9-inch round pie dish for smaller portions)
- Large mixing bowls (at least 2 – one for apples, one for topping)
- Sharp knife and cutting board for apple prep
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Pastry cutter or fork (for mixing the crumble topping)
Instructions & Method
1. Preheat and prep (5 minutes)
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease your baking dish with a bit of coconut oil or cooking spray. The aroma of anticipation starts here!
2. Prepare the apple filling (10 minutes)
In a large bowl, toss the sliced apples with brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and vanilla. Mix gently until every slice is coated. You’ll smell the cinnamon working its magic already. Let this sit while you prepare the topping – the apples will release some lovely juices.
3. Create the crumble topping (8 minutes)
In another bowl, combine oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Add the coconut oil and maple syrup, then use a pastry cutter or fork to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with some larger chunks. Don’t overmix – those irregular pieces create the best texture contrast.
4. Assemble your masterpiece (3 minutes)
Spread the seasoned apples evenly in your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the crumble topping over the apples, covering them completely. Some gaps are fine – they’ll allow steam to escape and create beautiful golden spots.
5. Bake to golden perfection (35-40 minutes)
Bake until the topping is golden brown and the apples are tender when pierced with a fork. You’ll know it’s ready when your kitchen smells absolutely incredible and the edges are bubbling slightly.
6. Cool and serve (15 minutes)
Let the crumble cool for at least 15 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to thicken slightly and prevents molten apple burns!
Tips, Variations & Substitutions
Flavor variations to try:
- Add 1/2 cup fresh cranberries for a tart twist
- Mix in chopped walnuts or pecans with the crumble topping
- Try a blend of apples and pears for complex flavor
- Add a tablespoon of bourbon or rum extract for grown-up appeal
Dietary substitutions:
- Gluten-free: Replace all flour with certified gluten-free oat flour
- Sugar-free: Use monk fruit sweetener or stevia equivalent
- Nut-free: This recipe is naturally nut-free as written
Troubleshooting common issues:
- Soggy bottom: Make sure apples aren’t overly juicy; drain excess liquid before baking
- Dry topping: Ensure coconut oil is properly incorporated and not melted
- Uneven browning: Rotate the dish halfway through baking
Serving Suggestions
This vegan apple crumble is absolutely divine on its own, but here are some ways to make it extra special:
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla coconut ice cream
- Drizzle with homemade caramel sauce for ultimate indulgence
- Pair with a cup of spiced chai or coffee for a cozy autumn evening
- Add a dollop of whipped coconut cream for special occasions
The crumble makes an excellent addition to holiday breakfast spreads too – who says dessert can’t be breakfast?
Storage, Make-Ahead & Reheating
Room temperature storage: Cover and store for up to 2 days
Refrigerator: Keeps beautifully for up to 5 days covered
Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months (thaw overnight before reheating)
Make-ahead tips:
- Prepare the entire crumble up to 24 hours ahead; cover and refrigerate, then bake when ready
- Pre-mix dry ingredients for the topping and store in an airtight container
- Slice apples and toss with lemon juice; store covered in the fridge for up to 2 days
Reheating for best results:
- Oven: 350°F for 10-15 minutes until warmed through
- Individual portions: Microwave for 30-60 seconds
- Add a sprinkle of fresh oats on top before reheating to refresh the texture
Nutrition & Dietary Information
This vegan apple crumble provides a healthier twist on the classic dessert. Each serving contains approximately:
- Calories: 285
- Fiber: 5g (thanks to those wonderful oats!)
- Natural sugars: Primarily from apples and small amounts of added sweeteners
- Healthy fats: From coconut oil instead of butter
Dietary notes: Naturally dairy-free, egg-free, and easily adaptable for gluten-free diets. The oats provide beneficial fiber, while apples contribute vitamins and antioxidants.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats?
While you can substitute quick oats, old-fashioned oats provide much better texture and won’t get as mushy during baking. If quick oats are all you have, reduce the baking time by 5-10 minutes.
What if my coconut oil is too hard to mix?
Let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes to soften, or gently warm it until it’s pliable but not melted. You want it to create those lovely crumbly pieces.
Can I make this ahead for a dinner party?
Absolutely! This crumble actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Prepare it completely, cover, and reheat gently before serving.
Why are my apples still hard after baking?
Some apple varieties take longer to soften. Cover the dish with foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or slice your apples thinner next time.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes! Use a larger baking dish (like a 9×13 plus a 8×8) or two separate dishes. You may need to add 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
Conclusion
This Vegan Apple Crumble proves that plant-based desserts can be every bit as comforting and delicious as their traditional counterparts. With its perfectly spiced apple filling and irresistibly crunchy oat topping, it’s a dessert that brings people together around the table.
The beauty of this recipe lies not just in its incredible taste, but in its flexibility and accessibility. Whether you’re accommodating dietary restrictions, exploring healthier lifestyle choices, or simply wanting to try something new, this crumble delivers on every level.
Ready to get started? Gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and prepare to fill your home with the most amazing aromas. Don’t forget to share your creation with friends and family – this is the kind of dessert that creates lasting memories and might just become your signature dish.
For more cozy fall-inspired recipes and seasonal treats, explore our collection of autumn favorites that celebrate the best flavors of the season.
