Vegan Baked Cinnamon Apples

These vegan baked cinnamon apple slices are a simple yet delicious dessert perfect for cozy fall days or festive gatherings. They combine the natural sweetness of apples with warming spices and a touch of maple syrup to create a comforting treat that feels both indulgent and wholesome. Whether served on their own or as a topping for breakfast dishes, they never fail to bring a smile to the table.

I first made this during a chilly weekend and now it’s a staple whenever the air turns crisp. My family loves how the apples soften perfectly but still hold their shape, making every bite satisfying.

Ingredients

• Six medium Honeycrisp apples peeled cored and sliced: Honeycrisp offers sweetness and firmness that holds up well when baked
• Two tablespoons vegan buttery sticks melted: helps create a rich coating and enhances caramelization choose a highquality brand for best flavor
• Three tablespoons pure maple syrup: adds natural sweetness with a subtle depth opt for grade A if possible for a milder taste
• Two teaspoons ground cinnamon: the star spice that brings warmth and coziness
• Half a teaspoon ground nutmeg: complements cinnamon with a slightly nutty aromatic touch
• Half a teaspoon pure vanilla extract: enhances overall flavor complexity
• Quarter teaspoon salt: balances the sweetness
• Two teaspoons cornstarch: thickens the sauce so it clings to the apples nicely
• Juice from half a lemon: brightens the flavor and prevents the apples from browning before baking

Instructions

Prepare the Apples:

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit which helps achieve optimal caramelization. Peel core and slice the apples evenly about a quarter inch thick for uniform baking and texture.

Mix the Seasoning:

In a large mixing bowl whisk together the melted vegan butter maple syrup cinnamon nutmeg vanilla salt cornstarch and lemon juice until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

Coat the Apple Slices:

Add the sliced apples to the bowl and toss them gently but thoroughly making sure each slice is generously coated in the spiced mixture.

Arrange in Baking Dish:

Transfer the coated apples to a lightly greased baking dish spreading them out evenly. This allows the apples to roast evenly and develop a beautiful caramelized surface.

Bake the Apples:

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for thirty to thirty five minutes stirring gently halfway through to encourage even cooking. The apples should become fork tender and the sauce will thicken into a glossy coating around the slices.

Serve:

Allow the apple slices to cool for a few minutes so the sauce can thicken further. Serve them alone or use as a topping over oatmeal pancakes or vegan ice cream for a special treat.

My favorite part is the cinnamon infusion which fills the kitchen with an irresistible aroma while baking. I remember making this for a Friendsgiving many years ago and it was such a hit even among non vegans that it quickly became a requested dessert tradition.

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat gently in the oven to maintain the sauce's glossy texture and tender apple slices.

Ingredient Substitutions

If Honeycrisp apples are not available try Pink Lady apples which hold their shape well and offer a pleasantly tart contrast. For maple syrup you can substitute date syrup for a richer more caramellike sweetness. Coconut oil can replace vegan butter to add a subtle tropical aroma while keeping the dish fully plantbased.

Serving Suggestions

These baked cinnamon apple slices are wonderful served over warm oatmeal or vegan yogurt for breakfast. They also make an excellent topping for pancakes or waffles and pair beautifully with coconutbased ice creams for dessert. Adding toasted pecans or walnuts right before serving adds a delightful crunch.

Serve warm on its own or spooned over oatmeal pancakes or vegan ice cream for a cozy dessert. Enjoy leftovers reheated to keep the sauce glossy and the apples tender.

Common Questions About Recipes

→ Why are my apples mushy instead of tender?

Overbaking or slicing apples too thin can cause mushiness. Use firm apple varieties and slice about ¼-inch thick for the best texture.

→ How can I prevent the apples from sticking to the pan?

Lightly coat the baking dish with vegan butter or oil to ensure easy serving and prevent sticking.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, gently reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes before serving to retain flavor and texture.

→ What are the best ways to serve these baked apple slices?

Serve warm as a topping on vegan yogurt, oatmeal, pancakes, or alongside vegan ice cream for added indulgence.

→ Can I substitute any ingredients for different flavors?

Yes, try using Pink Lady apples for a tart balance, date syrup for a richer sweetness, or coconut oil for a subtle tropical aroma.