The Best Vegan Apple Crumble

If you’re looking for a cozy dessert that brings warmth and comfort to any gathering, you’ve found it! The Best Vegan Apple Crumble is one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug. With tender, spiced apples nestled beneath a buttery, crisp topping, this dish is perfect for everything from busy weeknights to family celebrations. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, making it a favorite in my home.

I love how this crumble fills the kitchen with an irresistible aroma as it bakes. You might find yourself wanting a second helping (or maybe even a third!) because it’s just that good. Serve it warm with a scoop of dairy-free ice cream or some creamy custard for an extra treat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just about 10 minutes of prep time—perfect for unexpected guests!
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves a good apple crumble, and this vegan version pleases both kids and adults alike.
• Customizable: Want to switch things up? This recipe has plenty of variations to suit your taste.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a simple weeknight dinner, this dessert is sure to impress.
• Wholesome Ingredients: Made with simple ingredients that are easy to find, you can feel good about serving this dish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for The Best Vegan Apple Crumble is simple and fun! These wholesome staples will help create the delicious flavors we all love. Here’s what you need:

For the Crumble Topping

• 1 cup of all-purpose flour
• ½ cup of granulated sugar
• ½ cup of packed brown sugar
• ¼ teaspoon of salt
• ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon
• ½ cup of melted vegan butter

For the Apple Filling

• 5 cooking apples (peeled, cored and sliced)
• 2 tablespoons of lemon juice
• ½ cup of granulated sugar
• ¼ cup of packed brown sugar
• ¼ cup of flour
• ½ teaspoon of cinnamon
• ½ tablespoon of pumpkin pie spice

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ways to make it your own:

• Add nuts: Toss in chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
• Use different fruits: Mix in berries or pears for a fruity twist on the classic apple filling.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to suit dietary needs.
• Sweeten naturally: Try using maple syrup or coconut sugar instead for a different sweetness profile.

How to Make The Best Vegan Apple Crumble

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first—preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. This step ensures that your crumble bakes evenly and gets that beautiful golden brown color.

Step 2: Prepare the Crumble Topping

In a medium bowl, mix together all the ingredients for the crumble topping: flour, sugars, salt, cinnamon, and melted vegan butter. Use a fork to cut everything until it resembles small crumbs. Setting this aside will allow flavors to meld while you prepare the apple filling.

Step 3: Prepare the Apple Filling

In a large bowl, combine your sliced apples with lemon juice, granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice. Tossing everything together helps coat the apples evenly and enhances their sweet flavor with those lovely spices.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

Fill your greased 8×8 baking dish with the apple mixture. Don’t be shy—pile them high! The apples should nearly spill over; they will cook down beautifully as they bake.

Step 5: Add the Topping and Bake

Now sprinkle that delightful crumble topping evenly over your apples. Pop it into the oven and let it bake for about 50-55 minutes until it’s golden brown and bubbling around the edges. Once done, let it sit for about 10 minutes before serving; this helps everything thicken up nicely.

And there you have it—the perfect ending to any meal! Enjoy every bite of The Best Vegan Apple Crumble with your loved ones!

Pro Tips for Making The Best Vegan Apple Crumble

Creating the perfect vegan apple crumble is all about the little details, and I’m here to help you make it shine!

• Choose the Right Apples: Select a mix of sweet and tart apples, such as Granny Smith and Honeycrisp. This combination adds depth to the flavor and ensures a well-rounded taste.

• Don’t Skip the Lemon Juice: A splash of lemon juice not only brightens the flavor of the apples but also prevents them from browning too quickly. It’s a simple trick that makes a big difference!

• Check for Doneness: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your crumble during baking. Look for a golden brown topping and bubbling fruit underneath to ensure it’s perfectly cooked.

• Let It Rest: Allowing your apple crumble to sit for about 10 minutes after baking is key. This resting time thickens the sauce and makes serving easier while intensifying the flavors.

• Customize Your Spices: Feel free to experiment with different spices like nutmeg or cardamom in addition to cinnamon. This can add a unique twist and elevate your dessert experience.

How to Serve The Best Vegan Apple Crumble

Serving your vegan apple crumble is just as delightful as making it! Here are some ideas to present this delicious dessert beautifully.

Garnishes

• Dairy-Free Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy dairy-free ice cream on top warms up the crumble, creating a delightful contrast between hot and cold.

• Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle some toasted walnuts or pecans over the top for added crunch and flavor that complements the softness of the apples.

Side Dishes

• Coconut Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy coconut whipped cream adds an indulgent touch while keeping everything vegan-friendly.

• Vegan Custard: A bowl of warm vegan custard pairs wonderfully with apple crumble, enhancing its sweetness while adding a rich, velvety texture.

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing side of mixed berries or citrus fruit can balance out the sweetness of the crumble, providing a burst of freshness on your plate.

• Herbal Tea: Serve your apple crumble with a cup of soothing herbal tea like chamomile or peppermint for a cozy dining experience that rounds out your dessert nicely.

Now you’re all set to impress your family and friends with The Best Vegan Apple Crumble! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This vegan apple crumble is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare it ahead of time and store it, making it a convenient option for busy days or special occasions.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the crumble to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Let the baked crumble cool down entirely.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
• Place the crumble in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil to prevent over-browning.
• Heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for quick reheating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making The Best Vegan Apple Crumble!

Can I make The Best Vegan Apple Crumble gluten-free?

Absolutely! To make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure that your oats (if using) are certified gluten-free as well.

What type of apples work best for The Best Vegan Apple Crumble?

For optimal flavor and texture, look for tart apples such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. They hold up well during baking and provide a nice balance to the sweetness of the crumble topping.

Can I use other fruits in this vegan crumble recipe?

Yes! Feel free to mix in other fruits like pears, berries, or even peaches alongside the apples. Just adjust the sugar levels according to the sweetness of the fruits you choose.

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe for The Best Vegan Apple Crumble brings warmth and joy to your kitchen! It’s a delightful dessert that’s sure to impress your friends and family. Whether you’re enjoying it fresh from the oven or savoring leftovers later, this dessert is about comfort and happiness. Enjoy making it, and don’t forget to share your experience with me—I’d love to hear how it turns out!