Easy Apple Pie Recipe – Perfect Comfort Dessert
Welcome to the world of Almost Apple Pie! As a culinary explorer, I am thrilled to introduce you to this exceptional recipe that will take your taste buds on a delightful journey. This Almost Apple Pie is the perfect balance between sweetness and tanginess, with a crumbly topping that will leave you captivated.
Now, before you dismiss this recipe and assume it’s just another apple pie, think again! This Almost Apple Pie includes a twist that will amaze your taste buds. It’s an almost-apple pie because it uses summer vegetables instead of apples. And don’t worry, you won’t even notice the difference!
As they say, an apple a day keeps the doctor away, but this recipe takes it one step further by incorporating some vegetables into the mix. Trust me; it’s delicious.
So join me on this culinary adventure as we explore the magic behind this Almost Apple Pie recipe – perfect for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you are a fan of apple pie, then you will fall in love with this almost apple pie recipe. It is called “almost” because it uses sliced zucchini instead of apples. But don’t let that fool you, this dessert has the texture, look and taste of a great apple pie without using a single apple.
One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to make. You only need a few ingredients, and there’s no need to worry about peeling and coring apples. Unlike traditional apple pies, the mock filling for this recipe needs less baking time than a real apple pie. That means you can enjoy this delicious dessert in less than an hour.
Another reason why I think you will love this recipe is that it tastes just as good as a real apple pie, but with fewer calories. This recipe uses zucchini instead of apples, which are lower in calories but still have that perfect apple-like texture when cooked.
Plus, this almost homemade apple pie doesn’t use any store-bought filling or crusts. Instead, I’ll share with you some tips on how to make your own pie crust and filling from scratch, which is always better and healthier than ready-made mixes. Trust me; your friends and family will be amazed by your baking skills.
Lastly, don’t be afraid to try something new! The idea of using zucchini instead of apples might sound strange at first, but I assure you that the result is incredible. By doing so, we’re reducing food waste while creating a fabulous dessert that everybody loves.
In conclusion, If you’re looking for a unique and delicious twist on classic apple pie, then give this almost apple pie recipe a chance! You won’t regret it!
Ingredient List
It’s always important to make sure you have all the ingredients on hand before starting a recipe. For this almost apple pie recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
- 5 cups of sliced apples (peeled and cored)
- 1/2 cup of white sugar
- 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
For the pie crust, you will need:
- 2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 2/3 cup of shortening or margarine
- 4-6 tablespoons of ice water
And for the crumb topping, we will use:
- 1 cup of brown sugar
- 3/4 cup of all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup of quick-cooking oats
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) of unsalted butter, melted
Don’t forget to measure out your ingredients accurately as baking can be like chemistry!
The Recipe How-To
Now let’s get to the most exciting part. Following this recipe is going to be a breeze as all you need to do is to follow each step precisely, starting from preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and then preparing the pie crust. Here’s how you do it:
Preparing the crust
First, mix together flour, white sugar, and salt in a large bowl. Then, cut in margarine until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add 2 tablespoons of ice water and continue mixing until the dough comes together.
Divide the dough in half, then roll out one half of the dough on a floured surface until it’s about 12 inches in diameter. Transfer it to a 9-inch (23cm) pie dish and leave it there.
The filling
In a large bowl, pour 5 cups of freshly sliced apples, leaving the skin on or peeling them off is up to your preference. Add 1/2 cup white sugar, 2 tablespoons purpose flour, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and a dash of nutmeg.
Mix everything well then pour it over the prepared crust.
Finishing touch
Roll out the second half of pie crust dough on a floured surface until it’s about 12 inches in diameter. Cut into strips, then lay them in a lattice pattern over the apple filling.
Baking
Place the filled crust into your preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 50 minutes or until golden brown.
Don‘t forget that after taking the almost apple pie from the oven, it’s best to allow it to sit for an hour before serving so that flavors have enough time to mingle with each other making every bite delicious!
Substitutions and Variations
As with any recipe, it’s always fun to experiment with different ingredients and try new things. Here are a few substitutions and variations that you can try with this almost apple pie recipe:
– Mock Apple Pie: If you’re feeling adventurous, you can try making a mock apple pie using zucchini instead of apples! Simply slice the zucchini into thin rounds, and follow the recipe as written for the filling. You’ll be amazed at how similar it tastes to traditional apple pie.
– Caramel Apple Pie: For a decadent twist on this recipe, drizzle caramel sauce over the top of the pie before baking. It will add a sweet, buttery flavor that pairs perfectly with the cinnamon-spiced apples.
– Crustless Apple Pie: If you’re watching your carbohydrate intake or just don’t feel like making a crust, you can skip it altogether and make a crustless version of this pie. Simply pour the filling into a greased pie plate and bake according to the directions.
– Slovenian Apple Pie: This variation on traditional apple pie comes from Slovenia, and is made with a mixture of sliced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a touch of lemon juice. You can find many recipes online for Slovenian apple pies, but this one is my favorite!
– Grandma Ople’s Apple Pie: This classic recipe is a bit more involved than our almost apple pie recipe, but it’s worth the extra effort. It includes homemade pie crust and a rich, custardy filling that will make your taste buds sing.
No matter which variation you choose, I’m sure you’ll end up with a delicious dessert that will leave everyone asking for the recipe. So go ahead and get creative in the kitchen – who knows where your culinary explorations might take you!
Serving and Pairing
Once your almost apple pie is out of the oven and ready to be devoured, it’s time to take a minute and think about the perfect way to serve and pair it.
This almost apple pie is perfect for serving with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream on top or a dollop of rich homemade whipped cream. The creamy texture of ice cream or the velvety-smooth consistency of whipped cream provides a perfect balance to the spicy-cinnamon flavor of this delightful dessert.
If you’re looking for something more refreshing to cut through the pie’s sweetness, I recommend pairing it with a glass of cold milk or iced green tea. Both are light enough not to overpower the dish, allowing the taste of the almost apple pie to really shine.
For those with a more adventurous palate, you might consider pairing this almost apple pie with a glass of Slovenian wine. Slovenia is one of Europe’s lesser-known wine-producing countries but is quickly becoming recognized as an up-and-coming player in winemaking. The acidity in their wines can perfectly balance out the sweetness in the pie and elevate each other’s flavors.
No matter how you choose to serve and pair this almost apple pie, I guarantee that it will be a hit at any gathering or family dinner.
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
When it comes to apple pies, we know how hard it is to resist a freshly baked one. But did you know that you can also make this almost apple pie ahead of time? Don’t worry, it will still taste great even after storing and reheating.
To make it ahead of time, simply bake the almost apple pie according to the recipe instructions, then let it cool down completely. Once cooled, wrap the pie in a tight plastic wrap or put it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
If you prefer to freeze your almost apple pie, you can also do so, but it’s important to note that the texture may slightly change after thawing. To freeze, wrap the completely cooled pie tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before storing in the freezer for up to 3 months.
When you’re ready to serve, take the almost apple pie out of the refrigerator or freezer and unwrap it. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place the pie on a baking sheet, and bake for 10-15 minutes if refrigerated or 25-30 minutes if frozen until warm throughout.
To elevate the flavor of your reheated pie, you can sprinkle some cinnamon on top or add a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Another alternative is heating up a slice of almost apple pie in a skillet with butter for an even tastier experience.
Now that you know how to make and store this delicious almost apple pie even ahead of time, feel free to enjoy it anytime as a perfect dessert or make-ahead treat.
Tips for Perfect Results
When it comes to making the perfect Almost Apple Pie, there are some tips and tricks to ensure that your dessert comes out as delicious as possible:
1. Keep the sliced apples from turning brown: As we all know, apples tend to turn brown quickly when exposed to air. To avoid this, add a tablespoon of lemon juice to the bowl of sliced apples before mixing in the sugar and cinnamon. This will keep the apples looking fresh and appetizing.
2. Use the right amount of flour: Flour is a key ingredient in making apple pies, and it’s important not to use too much or too little. Too much flour will make the filling dry and cakey, while too little will result in a runny filling. It’s best to follow the recipe’s instructions and measurements exactly.
3. Preheat your oven: This step is essential for successful baking. Make sure you preheat your oven to the correct temperature before putting your Almost Apple Pie in. This ensures even heating throughout the baking process.
4. Spice it up: Cinnamon and nutmeg are classic spices that go perfectly with apples. If you’re feeling adventurous, try experimenting with other spices such as cardamom or ginger for a unique twist on this classic dessert.
5. Don’t overwork the crust: The crust is just as important as the filling when it comes to making an Almost Apple Pie. Be sure not to overwork the dough or roll it out too thin, as this can result in a tough or hard crust.
By following these tips and tricks, you’ll have all the tools you need to make a perfect Almost Apple Pie every time!
FAQ
As you make your almost apple pie, you may encounter some questions along the way. Below are answers to some of the frequently asked questions to help guide you in your baking journey.
Do you cook apples before putting them in a pie?
When it comes to making an apple pie, one important thing to keep in mind is that precooking the apple filling can make a significant difference in the overall taste and texture of the dessert. By doing so, you’ll end up with evenly cooked apples that are perfectly tender, not mushy or crunch. Plus, you’ll prevent the dreaded gap between the filling and crust that can ruin the presentation of your pie. Keep reading for my tips on how to achieve the perfect apple pie filling.
Does canned apple pie filling need to be cooked?
Apple pie filling that comes in a can is already cooked during the canning process, which means it can be safely consumed without any additional cooking required.
Whats the trick to a great apple pie?
As a culinary explorer, I have discovered some crucial steps for baking a delicious apple pie. Before beginning the recipe, it’s important to note a few key tips. First, it’s essential to keep your ingredients cold. This includes your butter, as well as any liquids, such as water or vinegar, that go into your crust.
Next, stick with an all-butter crust for the ultimate flavor and texture. To achieve a flaky and tender crust, make a butter-flour paste, which involves cutting the butter into the flour until it forms small, pea-sized pieces. This mixture is then combined with cold water and molded into a ball of dough.
While some recipes call for adding vodka to the dough, that step can be optional. If you prefer not to use vodka, water works just fine. When it comes to folding in liquid, use a spatula to gently mix in the water until the dough comes together.
When it comes to choosing apples, it’s best to pick a tart variety. These types of apples are typically firmer and hold up better in pies than sweeter ones, which can turn mushy.
Finally, it’s important to go easy on the seasoning. While it may be tempting to add spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, it’s important not to overwhelm the natural flavor of the apples. A little bit of sugar and salt will enhance the taste without masking it.
One trick to par-cook your apples before filling them into the crust, this will help to avoid any uncooked apples in the final product. Overall, these steps will ensure that your apple pie turns out delicious and satisfying.
Why do you put lemon juice in apple pie?
If you’re planning to bake an apple pie or cobbler, you might have come across a suggestion to sprinkle a little bit of lemon juice on your sliced apples. The acid in the lemon juice prevents the apple slices from turning brown or getting discolored, which happens due to oxidation when the flesh of the apple comes in contact with the air.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, this almost apple pie recipe is a perfect choice for anyone who craves the taste of a classic apple pie but wants to try something new and exciting. With its mouthwatering filling of sliced apples, cinnamon, and white sugar, this recipe will make your taste buds dance with joy.
Whether you opt for a traditional crust or a crumbly topping, you’ll enjoy creating this dessert that is both easy and delicious. Plus, with the various substitutions and variations provided, you’ll never tire of making variations of this versatile recipe.
So next time you’re in the mood for something sweet and comforting, look no further than this almost apple pie recipe. Trust me, your family and friends will thank you.
Almost Apple Pie Recipe
Ingredients
Crumbs
- 1/2 cup softened margarine
- 1/2 cup white sugar
- 1 1/2 cups flour
Filling
- 5 cups sliced apples
- 1/2 cup white sugar (more if desired, we go with the 1/2 cup)
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon, to taste
Instructions
- Whisk the crumb mixture together and pat half the crumb mix into an 8x8 baking pan.
- Slice apples into a large bowl, add the dry ingredients, mix gently and place filling over the crumb base.
- Put the remaining crumbs over the apples and pat in place.
- Bake in a 350 oven 40 to 50 minutes or till nicely colored, times vary from oven to oven.
Your Own Notes
Nutrition
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Mishra Vikas is a digital nomad who loves to explore the world and learn about its cultures. As a programmer, backpacker, and cook, he enjoys sharing his adventures and cooking up delectable dishes. Writing about his experiences, creating tasty recipes, and discovering new places are some of his favorite activities. He’s an avid traveler and passionate chef, always on the lookout for an exciting new journey.