Vegan Apple Pie

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. For piecrust, in a small bowl combine ½ cup whole dates and enough boiling water to cover. Let stand 10 minutes; drain well. In a food processor combine soaked dates, 2½ cups of the rolled oats, and the salt. Pulse until dates are finely chopped. Gradually add milk, pulsing until dough comes together. Press dough into a 9-inch pie pan, covering the bottom and sides (do not extend over the rim).
2. For filling, in a large bowl combine apples and lemon juice; toss to coat. Add applesauce, chopped dates, apple cider, and 1 tablespoon of the apple pie spice. Place apple mixture in an extra-large skillet. Cook, covered, over medium about 10 minutes or until apples are tender, stirring occasionally. Pour into piecrust.
3. For topping, in a medium bowl whisk together maple syrup and almond butter until smooth. Add the remaining ½ cup oats and ¼ teaspoon apple pie spice and the flour. Toss to combine. Spoon topping over pie. Lightly press down.
4. Bake 45 minutes or until crust and topping are lightly browned and filing is bubbling around edges. Let cool before cutting.