Vegan Baked Cinnamon Apples

These vegan baked cinnamon apple slices bring a warm, comforting touch to any fall gathering or holiday table. The sweetness of maple syrup and the cozy spices create a naturally delicious dessert that feels indulgent yet wholesome. They work beautifully as a simple treat on their own or as a flavorful topping for breakfast foods and vegan desserts.

I first made this dish on a crisp fall afternoon and ever since it has become my go to for casual get togethers and weeknight desserts. Guests often ask for the recipe because it’s both comforting and unexpected in its simplicity.

Ingredients

• Six medium Honeycrisp apples: peeled cored and sliced evenly for the best texture and caramelization
• Two tablespoons melted vegan buttery sticks: for richness and to help the spices adhere choose brands with a clean ingredient list for the best flavor
• Three tablespoons pure maple syrup: for natural sweetness and depth look for organic if possible to ensure quality
• Two teaspoons ground cinnamon: which is the star spice here for warmth and depth Ceylon cinnamon offers a milder flavor if preferred
• Half a teaspoon ground nutmeg: adds a subtle spicy note that compliments the cinnamon beautifully freshly grated if you have it intensifies the fragrance
• Half a teaspoon pure vanilla extract: lends a smooth aromatic sweetness that rounds out the spice blend
• Quarter teaspoon salt: balances the sweetness and elevates the overall flavor profile
• Two teaspoons cornstarch: act as a thickener to create a glossy sauce make sure it is fresh for best results
• Juice of half a lemon: provides brightness and prevents the apples from browning before baking

Instructions

Prepare the Apples:

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit which is ideal for caramelizing the sugars in the apples. Peel core and slice the apples evenly approximately one quarter inch thick so they cook uniformly and hold their shape nicely.

Mix the Seasoning:

In a large bowl whisk together melted vegan butter maple syrup cinnamon nutmeg vanilla extract salt cornstarch and lemon juice until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Dissolving the cornstarch in the lemon juice first helps avoid lumps.

Coat the Apple Slices:

Add the apple slices to the bowl and toss gently but thoroughly ensuring every slice is coated with the spiced mixture for maximum flavor.

Arrange in Baking Dish:

Transfer the coated apples to a lightly greased baking dish arranging them in an even layer; this helps them roast evenly and caramelize on all sides.

Bake the Apples:

Bake for 30 to 35 minutes stirring gently halfway through to encourage even cooking until the apples are fork tender and the sauce thickens into a shiny glaze that clings to each slice.

Serve:

Allow the baked apple slices to cool for a few minutes so the sauce thickens a bit more making each bite rich and luscious. Serve them warm on their own or use them as a topping for oatmeal pancakes or vegan ice cream.

Apples are my favorite part of this recipe since they strike the perfect balance of tender and slightly crisp after baking and soak up all the warming spices beautifully. One memorable fall I brought this dish to a friendsgiving and it quickly disappeared from the table with everyone asking for seconds.

Storage Tips

Store leftover baked apple slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat gently in the oven at a low temperature to restore softness without drying out. You can also freeze the cooled slices in a freezer safe container for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Ingredient Substitutions

Try Pink Lady apples if you want a tarter note and a firmer texture that holds up well during baking. Swap maple syrup with date syrup for a deeper caramel like flavor that adds richness. Use coconut oil instead of vegan butter to introduce a subtle tropical aroma while keeping it fully plant based which also helps with browning in the oven.

Serving Suggestions

Add a pinch of ground ginger or cardamom to the spice mix for a warm spicy twist perfect for colder days. Sprinkle toasted pecans or walnuts on top right before serving to add a lovely crunch and complementary nutty flavor. Pair these apple slices with a warm cup of chai tea or fresh hot apple cider to enhance the cozy seasonal feeling.

These baked apple slices are an easy cozy dessert that works for weeknights and gatherings alike. They re simple to make ahead and adapt well to seasonal changes.

Your Recipe Questions Answered

→ Why are my apples mushy instead of tender?

Overbaking or slicing apples too thin can cause mushiness. Use firmer varieties and slice about ¼-inch thick for a tender, firm texture.

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

Coat the baking dish lightly with vegan butter or oil before adding the apple slices to ensure easy serving and prevent sticking.

→ Can I prepare the baked apples ahead of time?

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

→ What varieties of apples work best for baking?

Firm apples like Honeycrisp or Pink Lady hold their shape well and provide a balanced tart sweetness for baking.

→ How can I achieve a glossy coating on the baked apples?

Dissolve cornstarch in lemon juice before mixing with spices and syrup to create a smooth, shiny sauce during baking.