These cozy Apple Cinnamon Crepes are perfect for the holiday season—but honestly, they’re delicious any time of year. The recipe is completely vegan (dairy-free and egg-free), gluten-free, and surprisingly easy to make. Filled with warmly spiced apples and drizzled with homemade caramel sauce, they make a comforting breakfast or dessert for fall and winter.
Flavorful Apple Cinnamon Crepes
Nothing says holiday baking like the smell of apples and cinnamon filling the kitchen. These crepes bring all those comforting flavors into a soft, tender wrap that’s both light and satisfying. If you love festive apple treats, these crepes will quickly become a seasonal favorite.
In the Czech Republic, crepes are known as palačinky, and they’re also popular throughout many Slavic countries. This version gives the traditional dish a vegan and gluten-free twist—without sacrificing flavor or texture.
If you’re ready to switch up your usual pancake routine, these apple cinnamon crepes are a must-try.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These crepes are made with wholesome, plant-based ingredients and simple pantry staples.
For the Crepes
- Gluten-free flour blend – A mix of oat flour, rice flour, and cornstarch creates a soft yet flexible texture. You can also use a gluten-free 1:1 blend, regular wheat flour, or spelt flour if gluten isn’t a concern.
- Coconut sugar or brown sugar – Adds a subtle caramel-like sweetness.
- Ground flaxseed (or chia seeds) – Acts as a natural binder.
- Plant-based milk – Lite canned coconut milk adds richness and flavor. If using a low-fat milk (like almond or oat), add a little oil to prevent sticking.
- Banana (or applesauce) – Provides natural sweetness and moisture.
- Lemon juice – Enhances flavor and balances sweetness.
- Vanilla extract
- Baking powder
- Oil for cooking
For the Apple Filling
- Fresh apples (peeled and chopped)
- Coconut sugar or brown sugar
- Plant-based milk
- Lemon juice
- Cornstarch (for thickening)
- Ground cinnamon
Optional additions include raisins, pumpkin spice, vanilla extract, or even a splash of rum extract for extra warmth.
How to Make Apple Cinnamon Crepes
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
Whisk together all dry ingredients in a bowl. Blend the wet ingredients (except oil) until smooth, then combine with the dry mixture. Let the batter rest briefly.
Step 2: Cook the Crepes
Heat a lightly oiled non-stick skillet over medium heat. Pour about ¼ cup of batter into the pan and swirl to coat evenly. Cook until the edges lift easily, then flip and cook the other side. Repeat with remaining batter. If the batter thickens, add a splash of milk.
Stack finished crepes and cover with a towel to keep them soft and warm.
Step 3: Make the Apple Filling
Combine all filling ingredients in a saucepan before heating. Bring to a gentle boil, then simmer until the apples are tender and the mixture thickens.
Step 4: Assemble
Spoon apple filling onto each crepe, roll up, and sprinkle with cinnamon and sugar if desired. Drizzle generously with caramel sauce before serving.
Caramel Sauce (Optional but Recommended)
A simple homemade caramel sauce made with coconut sugar, water, and nut or seed butter pairs beautifully with the spiced apples. It adds richness and a deep caramel flavor that makes these crepes truly special.
Tips for Best Results
- Use a good-quality non-stick pan for easy flipping.
- Cook over medium heat to prevent over-browning.
- If making ahead, store crepes and filling separately in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Reheat crepes in a covered pan to restore softness.
Apple Cinnamon Crepes (Vegan & Gluten-Free)
Servings
10 crepes
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
30 minutes
Total Time
40 minutes
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup (90 g) oat flour
- ½ cup (80 g) rice flour
- 4 tbsp (32 g) cornstarch or arrowroot flour
- 2 tbsp coconut sugar or brown sugar
- 1 tbsp ground flaxseed or chia seeds
- 1 tsp baking powder
Wet Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups (360 ml) plant-based milk (lite coconut milk recommended)
- 1 small banana (about 80 g) or applesauce
- ½ tbsp lemon or lime juice
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- Oil for frying
Apple Filling
- 3 apples, peeled, cored, and chopped
- 3 tbsp coconut sugar or brown sugar
- 2 tbsp plant-based milk
- ½ tbsp lemon or lime juice
- ½ tsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp cinnamon
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together all dry ingredients.
- Blend all wet ingredients (except oil) until smooth. Pour into the dry ingredients and whisk until combined. Let the batter rest for a few minutes.
- Heat a lightly oiled non-stick skillet over medium heat. Pour about ¼ cup batter into the pan and swirl to spread evenly. Cook 2–4 minutes until edges lift easily, flip, and cook another 1–2 minutes. Repeat with remaining batter. (If batter thickens, add a splash of milk.)
- For the filling, add all ingredients to a saucepan. Stir, bring to a gentle boil, then simmer over low-medium heat for a few minutes until apples are tender and mixture thickens.
- Spoon filling onto each crepe, roll up, and serve. Optional: drizzle with caramel sauce.