Vegan Strawberry Crisp (GF Option!)

Summer is not completely without this Vegan Strawberry Crisp. Made with sweet, fresh strawberries and topped in a buttery crumble topping, it is truly the ultimate seasonal recipe. Let's learn how to make it!

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This Vegan Strawberry Crisp is our go-to summer recipe. It requires very little active time and is absolutely delicious when served with a scoop of vegan vanilla ice cream!

Sweet, gooey strawberries topped in buttery, crumbly, crispy goodness. What more could a person want? If you're looking for a way to use up some of the fresh strawberries you have on hand this recipe is definitely it! We wait all year long to finally get into summer pies and pastries and this crisp is always the first to be made.

If you're not into crisps, our vegan strawberry rhubarb pie is a great alternative!

Check out this article from Allrecipes to learn the difference between a crisp and a crumble.

Vegan Strawberry Crisp Ingredients

For the Filling

• Fresh Strawberries: Fresh strawberries provide natural sweetness and a burst of fruity flavor. Frozen strawberries are not ideal for this recipe and should only be used if they come sliced.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the filling.
• Cornstarch: Acts as a thickening agent. It helps absorb excess liquid released by the strawberries during baking.
• Lemon Zest: Adds brightness and enhances the strawberry flavor. The citrusy aroma and flavor from the lemon zest complements the sweetness of the strawberries.
• Lemon Juice: Provides acidity and balances the sweetness.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds depth and warmth to the filling.
• Salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.

For the Topping

• All-Purpose Flour: Forms the base of the crisp topping. It provides structure and helps bind the other ingredients together. Use gluten free all purpose flour to make the recipe GF!
• Rolled Oats: Adds texture and nuttiness. Rolled oats create a hearty, crunchy topping that contrasts with the softness of the fruit filling.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the topping.
• Light Brown Sugar: Adds caramel-like flavor and moisture. Light brown sugar helps create a more tender and chewy texture in the topping.
• Salt: Balances flavors and enhances taste.
• Vegan Butter, Melted: Binds the topping ingredients and adds richness. Melted vegan butter coats the dry ingredients, helping them crisp up during baking.

Why You'll Love this Recipe

• Made with seasonal, fresh strawberries BURSTING with flavor
• Incredible sweet and citrusy flavor
• Quick and easy. This recipe requires very little active time and uses only 1 bowl!
• Gluten free option available with only 1 easy swap
• Can be made in just about any baking dish
• Only easy to find, staple ingredients used.

How to Make Vegan Strawberry Crisp (with pictures!)

Please see the recipe card at the bottom of the page for full instructions and ingredient measurements.

Begin by placing your sliced strawberries into a large mixing bowl. Add in the remainder of the filling ingredients and gently toss to combine. Continue until strawberries are well-coated. Spread berries into the bottom of a 2 quart baking dish.

Prepare the filling by combining the all purpose/gluten free all purpose flour, rolled oats, sugars and salt in a large bowl. Pour over the melted vegan butter and toss to combine. Sprinkle the topping over the strawberries.

Bake strawberry crisp in an oven preheated to 375 degrees F (190 C) for 35-40 minutes or until topping is lightly golden. Allow to cool for about 30 minutes before serving.

Fresh vs Frozen Strawberries in Baking

Both fresh and frozen strawberries can be used in baking, including recipes like a strawberry crisp. Each has its advantages and considerations:

Fresh Strawberries:

1. Flavor and Texture: Fresh strawberries often have a more vibrant flavor and firmer texture compared to frozen ones. They provide a juicier and more pronounced strawberry taste to baked goods.
2. Seasonality: Fresh strawberries are typically available during the peak strawberry season, usually in late spring and early summer. This means you can enjoy the freshest and most flavorful strawberries during this time.
3. Preparation: Fresh strawberries require washing, hulling, and slicing before use in baking. This additional prep time may be a consideration, especially if you're short on time.
4. Liquid Content: Fresh strawberries contain more water compared to frozen ones. When using fresh strawberries in recipes like crisps or pies, you may need to adjust the amount of thickener (such as cornstarch) to compensate for the extra liquid released during baking.

Frozen Strawberries:

1. Convenience: Frozen strawberries are available year-round and are already washed, hulled, and sliced, making them convenient to use in baking.
2. Consistency: Frozen strawberries have a softer texture compared to fresh ones due to the freezing process. While this can affect their appearance and texture when thawed, it's less noticeable in baked goods.
3. Moisture Content: Frozen strawberries tend to release more liquid as they thaw and bake. You may need to increase your thickening agent.
4. Cost: Depending on the season and location, frozen strawberries may be more cost-effective than fresh ones, especially if you're baking large quantities or out of season.

Both fresh and frozen strawberries can be successfully used in baking. Here we prefer to use fresh strawberries as they offer superior flavor and texture. While frozen strawberries are convenient, it can be difficult to find them pre-sliced. We do not recommend using whole frozen strawberries when baking. Never thaw frozen berries prior to baking!

Tips for Success

Making a vegan strawberry crisp can be just as delicious and satisfying as the traditional version. Here are some tips to ensure your vegan strawberry crisp turns out perfectly:

1. Choose Ripe Strawberries: Opt for ripe, sweet strawberries for the best flavor. Ripe strawberries will naturally sweeten the crisp, reducing the need for excessive sugar.
2. Adjust Sweeteners: Experiment with the amount of sweetener (granulated sugar and brown sugar) based on the sweetness of your strawberries. You can always adjust the sweetness to your liking.
3. Ensure Topping Consistency: The topping should have a crumbly texture. Mix the dry ingredients (flour, oats, sugars, and salt) together before adding the melted vegan butter. Use a fork or your hands to combine the ingredients until they resemble coarse crumbs.
4. Gluten Free Option: If you would like to make this recipe gluten free, simply swap out the all purpose flour for gluten free all purpose flour!
5. Bake Until Golden and Bubbly: Bake the vegan strawberry crisp until the topping is golden brown and crispy, and the filling is bubbling around the edges. This ensures that the strawberries are cooked through and the topping is perfectly crunchy.
6. Let it Cool: Allow the vegan strawberry crisp to cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the filling to set slightly and makes it easier to serve without falling apart.
7. Individual Servings: If you don't want to make the crisp in a large baking dish, you can divide the filling and topping between 4-6 individual ramekins.

Frequently Asked Questions

Serving Suggestions

Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your vegan strawberry crisp experience:

1. Vegan Vanilla Ice Cream: Top warm servings of vegan strawberry crisp with a scoop of creamy vanilla vegan ice cream. The contrast between the warm crisp and the cold ice cream is delightful.
2. Coconut Whipped Cream: Dollop some homemade coconut whipped cream on top of individual servings. It adds a rich and decadent touch to the dessert.
3. Toasted Coconut Flakes: Sprinkle some toasted coconut flakes over the crisp just before serving. It adds a crunchy texture and a hint of tropical flavor.
4. Chopped Nuts: For added crunch and nuttiness, sprinkle a handful of chopped nuts like almonds, pecans, or walnuts over the top.
5. Fresh Berries: Serve the crisp with a side of fresh mixed berries such as raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries for an extra burst of fruity flavor and color.
6. Lemon Zest: Grate some lemon zest over the top of the crisp just before serving. The bright citrus flavor adds a refreshing contrast to the sweet strawberries.
7. Dusting of Powdered Sugar: Dust a light layer of powdered sugar over the top of the crisp for a simple and elegant finishing touch. It adds a hint of sweetness and looks beautiful on the plate.

How to Store Vegan Strawberry Crisp

A baked and cooled vegan strawberry crisp will keep in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. It can also be refrigerated for 4-5. This is not a freezer-friendly recipe.

Leftover crisp can be reheated! Individual servings can be reheated in the microwave or you can reheat the whole dish in the oven at 350 degrees F until warmed through.

If you make this recipe please tag @censoredbaker on Instagram and leave a review below!

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More Vegan Strawberry Desserts

• Vegan Strawberry Crinkle Cookies
• Vegan Strawberry Rhubarb Pie
• Vegan Strawberry Banana Cake
• Vegan Strawberry Tiramisu Cupcakes
• Vegan Strawberry Rhubarb Scones