Coconut Caramel Apple Crisp (Vegan & Gluten-Free)

This coconut caramel apple crisp came from a simple idea: soft-baked apples under a golden, crumbly topping. I added a little cucumber to the filling, too. It blends into the apples, adding moisture and a little extra volume without changing the dessert's overall character.

The topping is my favorite part here. Rolled oats and coconut toast lightly and turn golden in the oven, with crisp edges and a softer layer underneath. It is the kind of dessert that feels homemade and comforting, without needing a complicated list of ingredients.

---

Coconut Caramel Apple Crisp

---

⏱️ Time & Prep

Prep time: 15 minutes

Bake time: 30–35 minutes

Cooling time: 10 minutes

Total time: ~55–60 minutes

Yield: 8 servings

---

Ingredients

Apple filling

• 3 medium apples, peeled and thinly sliced

• 1 medium cucumber, peeled and finely diced

• ¼ cup erythritol

• 1 tsp cinnamon

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1 tbsp cornstarch

• 2 tbsp water

Coconut oat crumble

• 1 cup rolled oats
• ½ cup unsweetened shredded coconut
• ¼ cup erythritol
• 1 tbsp ground flaxseed
• 3 tbsp water
• ½ tsp cinnamon
• ¼ tsp salt
• ½ cup unsweetened plant-based milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

---

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Combine the ground flaxseed with 3 tbsp water and let it sit for 5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
3. Add the sliced apples and finely diced cucumber to a bowl. Stir in the erythritol, cinnamon, vanilla, cornstarch, water, and caramel extract if using.
4. Transfer the apple mixture to a baking dish and spread it evenly.
5. In another bowl, combine the oats, shredded coconut, erythritol, cinnamon, and salt.
6. Add the thickened flax mixture, plant-based milk, and vanilla. Stir until the mixture becomes moist and crumbly. It should hold together slightly when pressed but still break apart easily.
7. Scatter the crumble evenly over the apples.
8. Bake for 30–35 minutes, until the apples are tender and the coconut and oats are golden brown.
9. Let the crisp rest for 10 minutes before serving. This gives the filling time to settle and thicken.

---

Notes & Variations

• For a stronger caramel flavor, add ½ tsp caramel extract or a little extra vanilla.
• Finely dice the cucumber so it blends naturally into the apple filling.
• For a more pronounced coconut flavor, lightly toast the coconut before adding it to the crumble.
• You can replace part of the oats with additional shredded coconut for a more coconut-forward topping.
• A little lemon zest works beautifully with the apples and cinnamon.
• For a crunchier topping, leave the crumble in slightly larger pieces rather than spreading it too thinly.
• Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

---

Nutrition

Based on 8 servings:

Nutrient	Per Serving
Calories	140 kcal
Protein	3 g
Carbs	25 g
Fiber	4 g
Fat	3 g

---