If you’re searching for a delightful dessert that captures the warm, cozy vibes of autumn while keeping it entirely plant-based, this Vegan Apple Tart Recipe is an absolute gem. It’s a perfect blend of tender, cinnamon-spiced apples nestled in a crisp, buttery vegan crust that effortlessly satisfies any sweet tooth. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering or a quiet night in, this tart delivers comforting flavors and a beautiful presentation that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Vegan Apple Tart Recipe is how simple yet essential each ingredient is in creating the perfect harmony of taste, texture, and color. These pantry staples come together to craft a stunning tart that’s both rustic and elegant.
- All-purpose flour: Provides the sturdy base needed for a crisp and tender tart crust.
- Chilled vegan butter or margarine: Adds richness and flakiness to the dough, mimicking traditional butter beautifully.
- Granulated sugar (divided): Sweetens the crust and the cinnamon-spiced apple filling just right without overpowering.
- Apples (cored and sliced): The star of the dish – fresh and juicy for maximum natural sweetness and texture.
- Ground cinnamon: Infuses the filling with warm, comforting spice that pairs perfectly with apples.
- Lemon juice (optional): Brightens the apple mixture and prevents browning, adding a subtle tang.
How to Make Vegan Apple Tart Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch loose-bottom tart pan to ensure your tart releases easily after baking. This little prep work sets the stage for a beautifully shaped dessert.
Step 2: Create the Tart Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and half of the granulated sugar. Cut in the chilled vegan butter using your fingers or a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Slowly add cold water, a tablespoon at a time, just until the dough comes together. Avoid overworking the dough to keep it tender and flaky.
Step 3: Roll Out the Crust
Lightly flour your surface and roll the dough so it fits the tart pan perfectly. Press the dough evenly into the bottom and sides of the pan, trimming any excess. This crust will hold all those wonderful spiced apples and bake into a golden, crispy delight.
Step 4: Prepare the Apple Filling
In a separate bowl, toss the sliced apples with the remaining sugar, ground cinnamon, and a splash of lemon juice if using. This mixture not only flavors the apples but also helps them caramelize beautifully during baking.
Step 5: Assemble the Tart
Pour your fragrant apple mixture into the prepared crust, spreading it out evenly. For an extra touch of richness, drizzle some melted vegan butter over the top. This step adds a lovely sheen and depth of flavor to the finished tart.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Tender
Place your tart in the oven and bake for about 70 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the apples soften and the crust turns a gorgeous golden brown. The aroma that fills your kitchen during this time will be utterly irresistible.
How to Serve Vegan Apple Tart Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your Vegan Apple Tart Recipe by adding a dusting of powdered sugar or a light drizzle of maple syrup for an elegant touch. Fresh mint leaves or a sprinkle of crushed nuts can also add a lovely pop of color and texture.
Side Dishes
This tart pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vegan vanilla ice cream or a dollop of coconut whipped cream. If you want to keep things lighter, fresh berries or a warm cup of spiced tea complement the sweetness beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Try slicing the tart into small, bite-sized squares as a party treat or serve it in rustic slices on vintage plates for a cozy brunch setting. You can also top each slice with a cinnamon stick or edible flowers to elevate the presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover the tart tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. It stays fresh for up to three days at room temperature, making it perfect for prepping ahead or enjoying as a quick snack.
Freezing
If you want to keep your Vegan Apple Tart Recipe for longer, wrap it in foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to two months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for the best texture.
Reheating
Warm your tart slices gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes to refresh the crisp crust and warm the apples, recreating that freshly-baked feel every time you serve it.
FAQs
Can I use different types of apples for this tart?
Absolutely! Mixing tart and sweet varieties like Granny Smith and Fuji adds complexity and depth to the flavor and texture of your tart.
Is there a substitute for vegan butter in the crust?
You can use coconut oil or vegetable shortening as alternatives. Just keep in mind that they may slightly change the flavor and texture of the crust.
Can I make the dough without chilling it?
Chilling the dough helps achieve a flakier crust, but if you’re short on time, you can skip this step. Just handle the dough gently to avoid becoming too tough.
What if I don’t have a tart pan with a removable bottom?
No worries! A pie dish will work just fine, though the shape may be a bit different and the edges less defined.
How can I make this recipe nut-free?
This Vegan Apple Tart Recipe is naturally nut-free as written, so no changes are necessary unless you add nuts as garnish.
Final Thoughts
There is something incredibly comforting and satisfying about baking a Vegan Apple Tart Recipe that fills your home with warm, inviting aromas and delights your taste buds bite after bite. This recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a timeless dessert that’s both simple to prepare and wonderfully delicious. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a special part of your own kitchen traditions!
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Vegan Apple Tart Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Yield: 10 slices
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Vegan
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This Vegan Apple Tart is a delightful dairy-free dessert featuring a flaky, crumbly crust and a fragrant apple filling spiced with cinnamon. Designed to serve about 10 slices, it offers a perfect balance of sweetness and warm flavors, making it an ideal treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup chilled vegan butter or margarine
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- Cold water, as needed to form dough
For the Filling
- 4–5 apples, cored and sliced
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- Dash of lemon juice (optional)
- Melted vegan butter, for drizzling (about 1-2 tablespoons)
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch loose-bottom tart pan to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal.
- Make the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour with 3 tablespoons of sugar. Add the chilled vegan butter or margarine and mix it in using your fingers or a pastry cutter until the mixture becomes crumbly. Gradually add cold water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together without being sticky.
- Roll and Fit the Crust: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to fit the 9-inch tart pan. Gently press the rolled dough evenly into the pan, making sure it covers the bottom and sides completely.
- Prepare the Filling: In another bowl, toss the sliced apples with the remaining 3 tablespoons of sugar, ground cinnamon, and a dash of lemon juice if using. This will add brightness and help prevent the apples from browning.
- Assemble the Tart: Pour the apple mixture evenly into the prepared crust. Drizzle the melted vegan butter evenly over the top of the apples to add richness and promote browning.
- Bake the Tart: Place the tart in the preheated oven and bake for about 70 minutes. Bake until the apples are tender when pierced with a fork and the crust turns a beautiful golden brown color.
Notes
- Use firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for a tart with a good texture.
- The lemon juice is optional but helps keep apples from browning and adds a hint of freshness.
- Make sure the vegan butter is chilled before mixing to achieve a flaky crust.
- Allow the tart to cool before removing from the pan to help it set properly.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator and consume within 3 days for best freshness.
