When the first crisp apples appear at the market, my heart skips a beat, and I know it’s time to whip up my favorite Vegan Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal Crumble. There’s something truly nostalgic about the aroma of apples mingling with cinnamon wafting from the oven, reminding me of home and cozy gatherings. This recipe effortlessly transforms simple ingredients into a beautifully comforting dish that works just as well for breakfast as it does for dessert.

You don’t need to be a culinary expert to create this wholesome treat; it’s designed for everyone who craves homemade goodness without the fuss of elaborate preparations. Whether you’re winding down after a hectic day or looking for a delightful way to impress friends at your next gathering, this apple crumble is a surefire hit. With its crunchy oatmeal topping and tender, spiced apples, it captures that delightful balance of textures and flavors that makes you want to return for seconds—if not thirds! So, let’s dive into this recipe and bring the essence of warm, comforting kitchens into your home.

Why is Vegan Apple Crumble a Must-Try?

Comforting and Wholesome: This Vegan Apple Crumble combines the nostalgia of fresh, spiced apples with a crunchy topping, creating a dish that warms your heart and soul.

Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap out apples for pears or berries, allowing you to customize based on what’s in season or what you have on hand.

Easy to Make: With a simple prep process, even novice cooks can whip this up without stress.

Perfect for Any Meal: Enjoy it as a delightful breakfast or a satisfying dessert, making it an all-day favorite.

Crowd-Pleaser: Whether for family brunches or cozy dinners, this crumble is sure to impress and delight everyone at the table.

Plus, for more inspiring plant-based delights, check out this selection of wholesome recipes.

Vegan Apple Crumble Ingredients

For the Apple Filling
• Apples – Main fruit offering sweetness and moisture; Honeycrisp apples are recommended, but any tart variety will work.
• Lemon Juice – Enhances apple flavor and adds acidity; Freshly squeezed juice is best for optimal taste.
• Maple Syrup – Sweetener that ties the ingredients together; Agave syrup can be used, though the flavor will vary.
• Cinnamon – Adds a warm, spicy flavor complementing the apples; Adjust quantity to your preference for spice level.

For the Crumble Topping
• Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats – Forms the base of the crumble topping; Ensure oats are certified gluten-free if needed.
• Steel-Cut Oats – Provides extra crunch in the topping; Can be replaced with additional rolled oats if necessary.
• Flaxseed Meal – Acts as a binding agent and adds nutrients; Chia seeds can serve as an alternative.
• Walnuts – Contributes richness and crunch; Pecans or almonds can work as alternatives.
• Applesauce – Adds moisture to the crumble topping; Unsweetened is recommended for control over sweetness.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor profile; Use pure vanilla extract for best results.

How to Make Vegan Apple Crumble

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures that your crumble bakes evenly, resulting in a perfect golden topping and tender apples.
Combine diced apples, lemon juice, maple syrup, and cinnamon in a large bowl. Stir until the apples are evenly coated with the mixture; this should take about a minute.
Transfer the apple mixture to a 9×9 or 7×11 baking dish, spreading it out evenly. This will create a luscious base for your crumble topping to sit upon.
Mix rolled oats, steel-cut oats, flaxseed meal, walnuts, remaining maple syrup, applesauce, and vanilla extract in the same bowl. Stir until everything is thoroughly combined, creating a deliciously textured topping.
Spread the crumble mixture evenly over the apple layer, ensuring it covers all the apples well. The even distribution will help create that perfect crunchy topping everyone loves!
Bake for 45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are bubbly. Keep an eye on it; the delightful aroma will fill your kitchen as it bakes!
Cool for a few minutes after removing from the oven; this allows the crumble to set, making it easier to serve. Enjoy warm, whether as a comforting breakfast or a scrumptious dessert!

Optional: Serve with a scoop of vegan ice cream for an indulgent treat.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Vegan Apple Crumble

Fridge: Store leftover Vegan Apple Crumble in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors fresh while retaining some of the crumble’s delightful texture.

Freezer: Freeze the crumble for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, to prevent freezer burn and preserve its taste.

Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.

Make-Ahead Tip: Feel free to prepare the crumble a day in advance, storing it uncooked in the fridge. Bake it fresh on the day you plan to serve for the best texture and flavor!

Vegan Apple Crumble Variations

Feel free to get creative with this recipe by exploring delightful twists that tantalize your taste buds!

Fruit Swap: Use pears or mixed berries instead of apples for a seasonal spin. Each fruit brings its own unique sweetness to the dish.
Nutty Addition: Replace walnuts with toasted pecans or almonds for a flavor variation that adds crunch. Toasting the nuts brings out their natural oils, enhancing the overall taste.
Sweetener Switch: Try coconut sugar instead of maple syrup to give a subtle caramel flavor that pairs beautifully with the apples.
Zest it Up: Adding a bit of lemon or orange zest to the apple mixture brightens up the flavor, making each bite even more refreshing.
Dried Fruit Boost: Toss in some dried cranberries or raisins to the topping for added sweetness and chewy texture. It’s a lovely surprise amid the crunchy oats!
Spice It Up: Don’t hesitate to stir in a pinch of nutmeg or allspice along with cinnamon for an aromatic warmth that envelops the crumble.
Creamy Element: For creaminess, mix in some almond or coconut yogurt into the apple filling before baking. It enriches every spoonful and takes the dish to another level.
Choco Twist: Fold in some dairy-free chocolate chips into the oat topping for a chocolatey delight that pairs surprisingly well with the sweetness of the apples. It’s a treat worth trying!

Make Ahead Options

These Vegan Apple Crumbles are a fantastic recipe to prepare in advance, perfect for busy weeknights! You can prepare the apple filling (diced apples, lemon juice, maple syrup, and cinnamon) and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply cover it tightly to prevent browning. The crumble topping can also be mixed ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, combine the apple layer with the topping and bake according to the instructions. This way, you’ll have a delightful, homemade Vegan Apple Crumble with minimal effort on the day you serve it!

What to Serve with Vegan Apple Crumble?

Create a heartwarming meal around this deliciously wholesome crumble that everyone will adore.

Coconut Yogurt: A dollop of creamy coconut yogurt adds a delightful tang and creaminess, perfectly balancing the warm apple filling.
Vegan Ice Cream: Opt for a scoop of your favorite vegan ice cream for an indulgent touch that melts beautifully over the crumble.
Maple Syrup Drizzle: A light drizzle of maple syrup enhances the natural sweetness and brings out the rich flavors of the crumble.
Chai-Spiced Tea: Serve with a comforting cup of chai tea to echo the warm spices in the crumble, creating a cozy dessert experience.
Fresh Berries: A side of fresh berries adds a vibrant, juicy contrast that complements the warm, spiced apples beautifully.
Almond Milk: Enjoy a glass of chilled almond milk for a nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the crumble’s warm spices.
Granola: Sprinkle some crunchy granola on top for added texture and a burst of flavor, making it a delightful breakfast option.
Cinnamon Sugar Toast: Toast with a light sprinkle of cinnamon sugar as a delightful side, enhancing the comforting vibe of your meal.
Vegan Caramel Sauce: For an extra decadent twist, serve drizzled with homemade vegan caramel sauce that adds a deliciously sweet finish.

Expert Tips for Vegan Apple Crumble

• Choose the Right Apples: Select a tart apple variety like Honeycrisp for the best balance of sweetness and tartness in your Vegan Apple Crumble.

• Layering Matters: Ensure the apple filling is even in your baking dish for uniform cooking; this prevents some apples from being overcooked while others remain underdone.

• Cooling Time: Allow the crumble to cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This helps the mixture set and makes it easier to serve and enjoy.

• Spice it Up: Experiment with a pinch of nutmeg or ginger along with the cinnamon to enhance the flavor profile according to your taste preferences.

• Storage Tips: Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Gently reheat in the oven to maintain that delicious crispy topping!

Vegan Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal Crumble Recipe FAQs

What kind of apples should I use for the best flavor?
Absolutely! For a delightful balance of sweetness and tartness, I recommend using Honeycrisp apples. However, any tart variety will work well, bringing delicious moisture and a lovely flavor to your Vegan Apple Crumble.

How should I store leftover Vegan Apple Crumble?
For best results, store your leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It can stay fresh for up to 3 days. Just be sure to let it cool completely before sealing it. This helps maintain its flavor and texture!

Can I freeze the Vegan Apple Crumble?
Yes, you can freeze it! Wrap the cooled crumble tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven for the best results!

What should I do if my crumble topping is soggy?
If your topping turns out soggy, it could be due to excess moisture from the apples. To prevent this, you can toss the apples with a little extra flour or cornstarch before mixing them with the other ingredients. During baking, allow it to cook for a bit longer to achieve that ideal golden-brown crunch!

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Very! This Vegan Apple Crumble is a fantastic dessert for those on a plant-based diet. Just ensure that all your ingredients, particularly the oats, are certified gluten-free if you have gluten sensitivities. As for pets, I’d advise keeping any human foods, especially those sweetened with maple syrup or any nuts, away from pets.