Name: Irresistible Vegan Apple Tart with Caramelized Cinnamon Bliss
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 115 min
Ingredients: 2 cups All-Purpose Plain Flour (Substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.); 1/2 cup Vegan Butter or Margarine (Can be replaced with coconut oil.); 1/4 cup Granulated Sugar (Brown sugar can be used for a richer flavor.); 3-4 tablespoons Cold Water (Use as needed to achieve the right consistency.); 4-5 medium Apples (Sweet varieties like Fuji or Gala work best.); 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon (Enhances overall flavor.); 2 tablespoons All-Purpose Flour (Gluten-free flour can replace it.); 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice (Optional, brightens apple flavors.); 2 tablespoons Melted Vegan Butter or Coconut Oil (Brush on apples before baking.); 1 tablespoon Apricot Jam (Used as a glaze for a shiny finish.)

The aroma of warm cinnamon swirls through the kitchen, drawing everyone in like a cozy hug on a crisp autumn day. This Vegan Apple Tart is a true seasonal delight, with its buttery shortcrust and juicy, caramelized apple filling promising a sweet escape from the ordinary. Made with just six familiar pantry ingredients, this dessert is not only incredibly easy to whip up, but it also caters to a variety of dietary needs, making it perfect for gatherings and Thanksgiving feasts. Whether you’re a seasoned home-chef or just looking for a comforting treat, this Vegan Apple Tart will be a crowd-pleaser that highlights the very best of fall’s bounty. Curious about the simple steps to create this delightful dish? Let’s dive in!

Why is this Vegan Apple Tart a must-try?

Deliciously Simple: This Vegan Apple Tart uses just six ingredients, making it an achievable dessert for even the busiest home cooks.

Festive Appeal: Perfect for fall gatherings and Thanksgiving, its beautiful presentation will impress your guests.

Comforting Flavors: The combination of caramelized cinnamon apples creates a warm and inviting flavor that evokes cherished seasonal memories.

Crowd-Friendly: Vegan and customizable for gluten-free diets, this tart is a delightful option for all your friends and family. Just like my French Apple Custard or the Apple Upside Down, everyone can enjoy a comforting slice!

Versatile Variations: Feel free to switch up the fillings by adding pears or a crunchy topping for added texture; the possibilities are endless!

Whether enjoyed warm or at room temperature, this tart is sure to become a new family favorite!

Vegan Apple Tart Ingredients

For the Crust

All-Purpose Plain Flour – Provides structure to the pastry; substitute with gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option.
Vegan Butter or Margarine – Adds moisture and richness to the crust; can be replaced with coconut oil or softened vegan margarine if needed.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the crust; brown sugar can be used for a richer flavor and darker color.
Cold Water – Binds the pastry together; use as needed to achieve the right consistency.

For the Filling

Apples (4-5) – Key filling ingredient; sweet varieties like Fuji or Gala work best for added sweetness.
Ground Cinnamon – Adds warmth and spice to the filling, enhancing the overall flavor of the vegan apple tart.
All-Purpose Flour – Helps thicken the cinnamon sugar mixture; gluten-free flour can replace it if desired.
Lemon Juice (optional) – Brightens the apple flavors and enhances overall taste.

For the Topping

Melted Vegan Butter or Coconut Oil – Brush on apples before baking to enhance flavor and promote caramelization.
Apricot Jam – Used as a glaze for a shiny finish; substitute with maple syrup if preferred for a different taste.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Vegan Apple Tart

Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Begin by greasing a 9-inch tart pan with vegan butter. In a mixing bowl or food processor, combine all-purpose flour, vegan butter, and granulated sugar, blending until crumbly. Gradually add cold water, mixing until a soft dough forms. Roll the dough out on a floured surface and press it into the tart pan, ensuring even coverage. Prick the base with a fork and chill in the fridge for 30 minutes. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and blind-bake the crust for 10-15 minutes or until lightly golden.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling
While the crust cools, gather your apples and start the filling for your Vegan Apple Tart. In a small bowl, mix together granulated sugar and ground cinnamon; this will add comforting warmth to your filling. Thinly slice the apples with a sharp knife or mandoline, aiming for slices about 1/8 inch thick. Set the slices aside to soak up the flavors as you prepare the tart.

Step 3: Assemble the Tart
After the crust has cooled, sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the base. Next, carefully arrange the apple slices in overlapping circles, packing them tightly into the crust for an inviting look. Brush the arranged apples generously with melted vegan butter to ensure they caramelize beautifully during baking. Finally, sprinkle any remaining cinnamon sugar mixture on top of the apples for added sweetness.

Step 4: Bake
Transfer the assembled Vegan Apple Tart to the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes. Keep an eye on the tart as it bakes; it’s done when the apples are tender, and the filling is bubbling with a lovely golden color on top. To prevent over-browning, you may cover the edges with foil if necessary during the last 15 minutes.

Step 5: Glaze and Serve
Once baked, remove the tart from the oven and let it cool slightly. To add a glossy finish, gently brush the warm apples with apricot jam. This not only spices up the presentation but also enhances the flavor. Serve your Vegan Apple Tart warm or at room temperature, perhaps with a scoop of dairy-free ice cream or whipped yogurt for an indulgent touch.

Make Ahead Options

These Vegan Apple Tarts are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the crust up to 24 hours in advance; simply roll it out and place it in the tart pan, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. The filling can also be prepped; slice the apples and toss them with lemon juice to prevent browning, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to bake, layer the cinnamon sugar mixture in the crust, arrange the apple slices, and brush with melted vegan butter before baking. This allows for a delicious, fresh dessert with minimal effort on busy weeknights!

Vegan Apple Tart Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with this Vegan Apple Tart and customize it to suit your taste and dietary needs.

Gluten-Free Crust: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make it suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.
Fruit Twist: Use pears instead of apples for a delightful change of flavor that pairs beautifully with cinnamon.
Nutty Crunch: Top with a pecan or almond streusel for extra texture and a delicious nutty flavor that sings!
Spiced Pear Filling: Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the apples for a warm, aromatic twist perfect for the season.
Coconut Comfort: Swap out the apricot jam for coconut cream to add a tropical flair and creamy texture to the glaze.
Mini Tarts: Create adorable single-serving tarts using muffin tins—the perfect size for brunch or dessert tables.
Maple Sweetness: Replace granulated sugar with pure maple syrup in the filling; it’ll deepen the flavor and add subtle richness.
Cinnamon Swirl: Create a cinnamon roll effect by swirling the cinnamon-sugar mixture into the filling for added sweetness and dimension.

No matter how you choose to customize your tart, every option will make your creation feel fresh and exciting. If you’re looking for other comforting desserts, try my delicious Glazed Ham Pineapple or serve this tart alongside a Pineapple Cranberry Holiday Cheese for a festive gathering to remember!

Storage Tips for Vegan Apple Tart

Room Temperature: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day to maintain freshness.

Fridge: Refrigerate the Vegan Apple Tart in an airtight container for up to 3 days, keeping it delicious for your next cozy snack.

Freezer: Freezing is not recommended as it can compromise the texture of the apples, causing them to become mushy upon thawing.

Reheating: To enjoy slices warm, reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to revive.

Expert Tips for Vegan Apple Tart

Perfecting the Crust: Ensure not to overmix the dough; it should remain soft yet manageable. If it’s crumbling, add more cold water gradually.
Apple Selection: Use sweet apples like Fuji or Gala for the filling, avoiding powdery varieties like Red Delicious. This choice ensures a delightful texture in your Vegan Apple Tart.
No More Overbaking: Keep an eye on the tart as it bakes. If the crust starts to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil during the last stages of baking.
Gluten-Free Tips: If opting for a gluten-free Vegan Apple Tart, consider a blend of almond and gluten-free flour for a tender but sturdy crust.
Serve It Right: To elevate flavors, consider serving the tart warm with a scoop of dairy-free ice cream or a drizzle of vegan whipped cream.
Storage Wisdom: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for a day or in the fridge for up to three days to retain flavor and texture.

What to Serve with Vegan Apple Tart?

The warmth of spiced apples in a flaky crust can be the perfect centerpiece for a delightful fall gathering; here’s what to complement it.

Vanilla Coconut Ice Cream: A rich and creamy scoop offers a delightful contrast to the tart’s textures, enhancing its comforting flavors. The creaminess beautifully balances the spiced apples and crispy crust.
Whipped Coconut Cream: Light and airy, this dairy-free option adds a luxurious touch. With a hint of vanilla, it elevates the tart into a fancy dessert while maintaining simplicity.
Chai-Spiced Tea: Enhance the warmth with a fragrant cup of chai, whose spices harmonize beautifully with the cinnamon in the tart. This soothing drink will envelop you in cozy vibes, perfect for chilly evenings.
Cider-Glazed Carrots: These tender, caramelized carrots add a sweet and savory dimension to your meal. Their earthy flavors complement the vegan apple tart, creating a beautifully balanced plate.
Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with a zesty vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the tart. The crunch of fresh greens can enhance your dining experience, keeping it light and vibrant.
Maple Pecan Crumble: Add a crunchy topping to your dessert experience! Sprinkle this on top of the tart or serve on the side for an extra layer of deliciousness, enhancing both taste and texture.

Let these delightful pairings create a symphony of flavors on your table, elevating your Vegan Apple Tart from ordinary to extraordinary!

Vegan Apple Tart Recipe FAQs

What kind of apples should I use for the filling?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture in your Vegan Apple Tart, I recommend using sweet varieties like Fuji or Gala apples. They caramelize beautifully and maintain a pleasant texture. Avoid apples that are powdery, like Red Delicious, as they won’t hold up well during baking.

How should I store the leftovers?
To keep your Vegan Apple Tart fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day. If you plan to enjoy it later, refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Just remember, freezing isn’t recommended as the texture of the apples can turn mushy once thawed!

Can I freeze this Vegan Apple Tart?
While freezing is tempting, I suggest avoiding it for this tart. The moisture from the apples, once frozen, can lead to a soggy filling when thawed. Instead, enjoy the tart fresh! If you have leftovers, they’re best consumed within a few days.

What if my crust is too crumbly?
Very well! If your pastry dough is too crumbly, don’t worry! Simply add a teaspoon of cold water at a time until it becomes a soft but workable dough. On the other hand, if it’s too sticky, chilling it for about 15-20 minutes in the fridge will make it easier to roll out.

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Definitely! This Vegan Apple Tart is free of dairy, making it suitable for those following a vegan lifestyle. If you’re accommodating gluten-free friends, just substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Always check ingredient labels for potential allergens if needed.

Can I modify the toppings or filling?
The more the merrier! Feel free to switch up the filling by incorporating pears for a seasonal twist or adding a pecan streusel topping for extra crunch. You can also experiment with different glazes, like maple syrup instead of apricot jam, to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy the creative journey!