This vegan apple crisp is a simple, delicious way to celebrate the season's best flavors while still maintaining a Longevity Diet.  Made with simple, plant-based ingredients, it's warm, comforting, and a sweet finish to any holiday meal! 

Ingredients:

For the Apple Filling:

• 6 medium apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix), peeled, cored, and sliced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/4 cup maple syrup (or coconut sugar)
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch or arrowroot powder (optional, for thickening)

For the Crisp Topping:

• 1 cup rolled oats (use certified gluten-free oats if needed)
• 1/2 cup almond flour (or all-purpose flour for a crumblier topping)
• 1/3 cup coconut sugar (or brown sugar)
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (like pecans or walnuts) – optional
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/3 cup coconut oil (or vegan butter), melted
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the Apple Filling:
• In a large mixing bowl, toss the sliced apples with lemon juice, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla, and cornstarch (if using). Make sure the apples are well coated.
• Transfer the apple mixture into a greased 9x9-inch baking dish or similar size.
3. Make the Crisp Topping:
• In a separate bowl, combine the oats, almond flour, coconut sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Add the chopped nuts if using.
• Pour the melted coconut oil over the mixture and stir until crumbly.
4. Assemble and Bake:
• Sprinkle the crisp topping evenly over the apples.
• Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the apples are bubbling and the topping is golden and crisp.
5. Cool and Serve:
• Let the apple crisp cool for 10-15 minutes before serving. It will allow the filling to thicken slightly.
6. Optional: Serve warm with vegan vanilla ice cream or coconut whipped cream for an extra indulgence!