Vegan Apple Tart (Sugar-Free)

Looking for a delightful dessert that’s both vegan and free from added sugar? This Vegan Apple Tart is the perfect solution! It features a naturally sweet filling of tender apples spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg, all nestled in a crisp, flaky crust. This guilt-free treat is perfect for fall gatherings, afternoon snacks, or anytime you crave a comforting dessert. This sugar-free apple tart is a must-try for anyone looking for a healthier option.  

I’ve always enjoyed baking with seasonal fruits, and apples are a particular favorite during the fall. This recipe is a result of my experiments with creating delicious desserts without refined sugar. It’s a satisfying and wholesome way to enjoy the flavors of autumn. This healthy apple tart is surprisingly easy to make.

How to Make It (Overview)

This vegan and sugar-free apple tart involves creating a simple crust using oats, nuts, and dates, then filling it with spiced apples that are naturally sweetened with fruit. The tart is then baked until the crust is golden and the apples are tender.  

How to Make It (Detailed)

We begin by making the crust. This is a simple no-bake crust made from rolled oats, nuts (like almonds or walnuts), and dates. These ingredients are processed in a food processor until they form a sticky, crumbly mixture that can be pressed into a tart pan.

Next, we prepare the apple filling. We peel, core, and slice the apples, then toss them with cinnamon, nutmeg, and a touch of lemon juice. The lemon juice helps to prevent the apples from browning and adds a bright, complementary flavor.  

We then arrange the spiced apple slices in the prepared crust. You can arrange them in a simple overlapping pattern or get creative with more intricate designs.

Finally, the tart is baked until the crust is lightly golden and the apples are tender and slightly softened.

Make Ahead Method

The crust for this vegan apple tart can be made a day or two in advance and stored in the refrigerator, tightly covered. The apple filling can also be prepared a few hours ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Assemble and bake the tart just before serving or shortly before. The baked tart can also be stored, but the crust will lose some of its crispness.

Pro Tips

• Use a food processor: A food processor is the easiest way to create the crust. If you don’t have one, you can finely chop the nuts and dates and combine them with the oats.
• Use a variety of apples: A mix of sweet and tart apples creates a more complex flavor. Honeycrisp, Fuji, Gala, and Granny Smith apples are all good choices.
• Don’t overfill the crust: Overfilling can make the tart difficult to bake evenly.
• For a richer flavor: Add a tablespoon of coconut oil to the apple filling.
• Add other spices: A pinch of ginger or cardamom can add a warm and aromatic touch.

Storage

Storing Leftover Tart:

• Refrigeration: Store leftover tart in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.  
• Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the baked tart. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving. The crust may lose some of its original crispness after freezing.

Tools For This Recipe

• Food processor
• Tart pan (9 or 10-inch)
• Paring knife
• Cutting board
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons

FAQs!

• Can I use different nuts for the crust? Yes, you can use walnuts, pecans, or any other nuts you prefer.
• Can I use a different sweetener? While this recipe is designed to be sugar-free, you could add a small amount of maple syrup or agave nectar to the apple filling if desired. However, the natural sweetness of the apples and dates is usually sufficient.
• Is this tart gluten-free? As long as you use certified gluten-free rolled oats, this tart is naturally gluten-free.