A cozy, plant-based fall dessert with a coconut-oil crumble topping
This vegan apple crisp delivers the perfect balance of warm cinnamon-spiced apples and a buttery coconut-oil crumble made with almond flour. No oats required, this oat-free version is gluten-free and ready in 25 minutes. Pair with vegan vanilla ice cream for a satisfying plant-based treat.
Whether you're celebrating a cozy fall evening or hosting a plant-based dinner party, this apple crisp will steal the show. The coconut oil gives the topping a rich, nutty flavor while the almond flour crumble stays light and crunchy. Best of all, it's completely dairy-free, egg-free, and vegan-friendly.
The recipe uses simple pantry staples like oats, flour, and coconut oil, making it an accessible dessert for both seasoned bakers and beginners. With just 25 minutes in the oven, you'll have a warm, comforting dessert that everyone will love.
This recipe is perfect for those with dietary restrictions or anyone looking to enjoy a compassionate, delicious dessert. The oat-free topping ensures it's safe for those avoiding gluten or grains, while the coconut oil adds a tropical twist to the classic apple crisp.
For best Pinterest visibility, post this vegan apple crisp as part of a complete fall dessert series. Pair it with complementary sides like roasted squash or pumpkin pie for a full meal experience.
Why This Recipe Works
⏰ Quick & Easy
This 25-minute vegan apple crisp requires minimal prep and no special equipment. The simple ingredient list makes it perfect for last-minute dessert baking.
💰 Cost-Effective
Uses affordable pantry staples like apples, flour, and coconut oil. No specialty ingredients required for this plant-based dessert.
👥 Allergy-Friendly
Oat-free, gluten-free, and vegan. The almond flour topping works for most dietary restrictions and preferences.
🌟 Flavorful Twist
Coconut oil adds a rich, nutty flavor to the crumble topping while keeping it dairy-free and vegan.
Vegan Apple Crisp with Coconut Oil
A plant-based fall dessert with a coconut-oil crumble topping
🛒 Ingredients
- - 3 large apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- - 1/3 cup coconut oil (melted)
- - 1 cup almond flour
- - 1/2 cup rolled oats (gluten-free if needed)
- - 1/3 cup maple syrup
- - 1 tsp vanilla extract
- - 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- - 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- - 1/4 tsp salt
👨🍳 Instructions
Prepare Apples: Core and slice 3 large apples into 1/4-inch slices. Toss with 1 tsp cinnamon and 1/4 tsp nutmeg.
💡 Tip: Use Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best balance of sweetness and tartness.
Make Crumble Topping: In a bowl, mix 1 cup almond flour, 1/2 cup oats, 1/3 cup melted coconut oil, 1/3 cup maple syrup, 1 tsp vanilla, and 1/4 tsp salt until crumbly.
💡 Tip: For extra crunch, add 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans.
Assemble Crisp: Layer apple slices in a 9x9-inch baking dish. Sprinkle remaining 1/2 tsp cinnamon. Top with crumble mixture.
💡 Tip: Use parchment paper for easy cleanup and even baking.
Bake: Place in preheated 375°F oven for 25-30 minutes until golden and bubbly. Let cool slightly before serving.
💡 Tip: Add a scoop of vegan vanilla ice cream for a decadent finish.
Nutrition (per serving):
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Almond Flour
Provides a gluten-free, nutty base for the crumble topping. Works well for those avoiding oats or grains.
Substitutions: Cashew flour, sunflower seed flour, or oat flour (for gluten-free).
Coconut Oil
Adds rich flavor and moisture to the crumble. Choose refined coconut oil for neutral taste.
Substitutions: Vegan butter, olive oil, or avocado oil.
Rolled Oats
Adds texture to the topping. Use gluten-free oats if needed.
Substitutions: Almond flour, sunflower seed flour, or chopped nuts.
Maple Syrup
Natural sweetener with caramel notes. Adjust quantity to taste.
Substitutions: Agave nectar, date syrup, or coconut sugar.
Pro Tips for Perfect Apple Crisp
🕒 Prep Ahead
Prepare the crumble mixture up to 3 days in advance and store in the fridge. Assemble just before baking.
❄️ Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days.
🌱 Serving
Serve warm with vegan vanilla ice cream, coconut whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
🔥 Baking
For extra golden topping, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking. Watch closely to avoid burning.
Variations & Customizations
Spiced Apple Crisp
Add 1/2 tsp nutmeg and 1/4 tsp allspice to the apple mixture for extra warmth.
Pecan Crumble
Replace 1/2 cup of almond flour with chopped pecans for a rich, buttery flavor.
Cinnamon Streusel
Increase cinnamon to 2 tsp and add 1/4 cup brown sugar for a spiced topping.
Citrus Zest
Add 1 tbsp lemon or orange zest to the crumble for a fresh, citrusy twist.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
🍽️ Best Served With:
- Roasted butternut squash with sage
- Warm pumpkin pie with coconut whipped cream
- Herbed quinoa salad with cranberries
🍷 Drink Pairings:
Pair with a spiced chai tea, apple cider, or a glass of dessert wine like late harvest Riesling.
Make-Ahead Instructions & Storage
Make-Ahead Tips
Prepare the crumble topping up to 3 days in advance and store in an airtight container. Assemble and bake just before serving.
Refrigerator Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes.
Freezer Storage
Freeze unbaked crisp for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.
Reheating Instructions
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwave use to maintain crisp texture.
Troubleshooting & Common Questions
Q: My topping is too dry and crumbly
A: The crumble mixture should be slightly moist but not wet. Add 1-2 tbsp more melted coconut oil or maple syrup to bring it together.
Q: The apples are too soggy
A: Use a 9x9-inch baking dish and avoid overcrowding. For extra crispiness, pre-bake the crumble topping for 10 minutes before adding apples.
Q: Can I use frozen apples?
A: Yes, but thaw and drain excess liquid first. Frozen apples will release more moisture, so increase baking time by 5-10 minutes.
Q: How do I make this gluten-free?
A: Use certified gluten-free oats or replace with 1/2 cup almond flour. Ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
Final Thoughts
This vegan apple crisp is a testament to how simple, plant-based desserts can be both comforting and flavorful. The coconut-oil crumble adds a unique richness that pairs perfectly with the cinnamon-spiced apples. Whether you're a long-time vegan or just experimenting with plant-based recipes, this dessert is sure to become a fall favorite.
For best Pinterest visibility, post this vegan apple crisp as part of a complete fall dessert series. Pair it with complementary sides like roasted squash or pumpkin pie for a full meal experience. The oat-free, coconut-oil crumble makes this recipe accessible to a wide range of dietary needs while maintaining that classic apple crisp comfort we all love.
