Post Views: 1,276

This is my “classic” recipe for apple crisp as there’s something inherently comforting about this warm, cinnamon-spiced apple dessert topped with a buttery, crunchy oat crumble. It has stood the test of time as one of my most beloved fall desserts (I first had it as a child in a Vermont restaurant that I can’t recall the name of but it left a lasting impression) and it’s simple, delicious, and relatively easy to make. You don’t have to substitute much for a delightful vegan version other than some vegan butter as all the other classic ingredients are vegan friendly already.

What makes it an apple “crisp”?

An apple crisp topping includes oats as well as flour, whereas a “crumble” topping is made with flour but no oats. An apple crumble tends to have a more clumpy topping than a crisp and doesn’t normally include oats or nuts. A ” Brown Betty” is also similar and a variant on the crisp, but are typically made with alternating layers of fruit with spices and buttered bread crumbs. Having said that, one region’s crisp is another region’s crumble, so don’t judge the recipe by name alone. I’m adding both nuts and dried fruit to my oat topping which I feel adds both crunchy and chewy textures which I enjoy but they’re optional additions.

What do I need to make this?

Apples of course! But what kind? Tart/sweet varieties work best in a crisp and my favorite are macintosh apples. They aren’t the firmest variety but their flavor is unmatched in my opinion. My mom always used them but mostly in pies where I feel they become too soft but they’re perfect in a crisp. Other options include Rome, Cortland, the classic Granny Smith or Jonathan are all great choices as well.
Apple juice or cider. I’m adding some to the apples even though they’re already juicy. Also adding a little bit of thickener (cornstarch, arrowroot or potato starch) makes a lovely texture to the final bake that is not soupy!
Quick cooking oats. Don’t use instant and regular oats will take too long to cook so buy quick cooking which you can find in most major supermarkets.
Vegan butter. This will be melted and added to the topping so use your favorite. I used Earth Balance brand.

More apple crisp FAQs:

Can I make this in advance? Yes! You can freeze it unbaked and assembled then let it thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as needed.
Can I make multiple smaller crisps? Yes! You can mix all of the filling ingredients in a large bowl then divvy it up between two smaller baking dishes or even as individual servings in ramekins then add the topping to each. Baking times will vary for smaller portions so keep and eye on them if not making one large crisp.
Can I make this gluten free? I think using a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour should work fine here. Using GF oats and cornstarch or potato starch would make this GF friendly.
What do you serve with this? Vanilla ice cream or ” a la mode” is the classic way to serve apple crisp but vegan whipped cream or creme anglaise are other good options. Did you know you can make a quick vegan creme anglaise by just melting a container of vegan vanilla ice cream? Try it sometime!

As the days shorten and the air turns crisp, this warm apple dessert is the perfect way to celebrate the season during the cooler months. The combination of soft, cinnamon-spiced apples and a crunchy, oat-filled topping is pure comfort. Whether you’re making it for a family dessert, a holiday celebration or a cozy gathering with friends, this vegan apple crisp will surely become a seasonal favorite. Please rate and review if you try it!