Is there anything more comforting than the scent of warm apples and cinnamon baking in your oven? It just feels like a hug from the inside. This incredibly easy baked cinnamon apple crumble naturally dairy free is my go-to dessert when I want something feel-good and nourishing, without any fuss. And honestly? No one will ever guess it’s free of dairy. It’s just that good.
Top Reasons To Make It
You’re going to adore this cozy dessert. First, it’s incredibly simple to throw together, even on those busy weeknights when you need a sweet treat in a hurry. Second, it’s made with whole, simple ingredients you can feel good about serving. And third, it’s so versatile. Whether you need a vegan dessert, are avoiding lactose, or just want a healthier sweet option, this crumble covers all the bases.
Ingredients
- For the Apple Filling:
- 6 cups sliced apples (about 5-6 medium apples; I love a mix of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp)
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup (adds a lovely depth of flavor)
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (helps thicken the juices)
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon (for that classic warm spice)
- 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract (enhances all the other flavors)
- Pinch of salt (balances the sweetness)
- For the Dairy Free Crumble Topping:
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats (for the perfect chewy texture)
- 1/2 cup almond flour (creates a tender, buttery crumble without the butter)
- 1/3 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (adds a wonderful crunch)
- 1/4 cup coconut oil, solid (the secret to a flaky, dairy free topping)
- 3 tbsp pure maple syrup (sweetens and helps it clump together)
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon (because you can never have too much)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grab an 8×8 inch baking dish. You don’t even need to grease it.
- Make the filling: In a large bowl, toss the sliced apples with the maple syrup, cornstarch, cinnamon, vanilla, and salt until everything is evenly coated. Pour this lovely mixture into your baking dish and spread it out evenly.
- Make the topping: In that same bowl (fewer dishes!), mix the oats, almond flour, chopped nuts, and cinnamon. Add the solid coconut oil and maple syrup. Use your fingers or a fork to work the oil into the dry ingredients until you have a crumbly mixture with some pea-sized clumps.
- Assemble and bake: Sprinkle the topping evenly over the apple filling. Don’t press it down—let it stay loose and crumbly. Pop it in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the topping is golden brown and the apple filling is bubbling up around the edges.
- Let it rest: This is the hardest part! Let the crumble sit for at least 15 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to thicken up perfectly.
Variations & Substitutions
This recipe is a wonderful canvas for your own ideas. For a gluten free dairy free dessert, just ensure your oats are certified gluten-free. Not a fan of nuts? Simply leave them out and add a few more oats. You can swap the coconut oil for a neutral vegetable oil if you prefer, though the coconut oil gives the best flavor. And for a different fruit twist, try using pears or a mix of berries!
Dairy Free Baking Tips
Baking without dairy is easier than you think once you know a few secrets. Solid coconut oil is my absolute favorite butter substitute for crumbles and crusts—it behaves just like cold butter. When a recipe calls for milk, unsweetened almond milk or oat milk are my go-tos. They’re neutral and work beautifully. And don’t be afraid to experiment. The best part about dairy free baking recipes is discovering new, delicious combinations.
Healthy Serving Ideas
While this crumble is delicious all on its own, I love making it feel extra special. A simple scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream is a classic choice that melts into the warm crumble so perfectly. For a lighter option, a dollop of dairy-free coconut whipped cream is divine. Or, for a breakfast-worthy treat, serve a small portion warm with a side of Greek yogurt. So good.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers? Cover the baking dish with foil or transfer portions to an airtight container. It will keep beautifully in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, I find the oven or toaster oven works best to keep the topping crispy. Warm it at 350°F until heated through, about 15-20 minutes from the fridge. The microwave works in a pinch, but it will soften the topping.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make this crumble ahead of time? Absolutely. You can assemble the entire dish, cover it tightly, and keep it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. You might just need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time since it will be cold.
- What are the best apples to use? I really love a tart apple like Granny Smith for balance, but a sweeter apple like Honeycrisp is great too. Using a mix gives you the best of both worlds.
- Is this considered a healthy dairy free sweet? It’s definitely a healthier option! It’s sweetened naturally with maple syrup and packs fiber from the oats, nuts, and apples. It’s a treat you can feel good about.
- Can I use frozen apples? You can, but there’s no need to thaw them first. Just toss them frozen with the cornstarch and other filling ingredients. The bake time might be a few minutes longer.
I hope this baked cinnamon apple crumble naturally dairy free becomes a new favorite in your home. It’s the kind of simple, joyful recipe that brings everyone together.