Delicious Dried Apple Pie Recipe: Perfect for Fall!
When it comes to comfort foods, nothing quite compares to the classic apple pie. But let me tell you, I’ve got a twist on the traditional recipe that’s guaranteed to have your taste buds singing praises. This dried apple pie recipe is not your grandma’s classic recipe. It’s a perfect blend of sweet and tangy with a buttery crust that will leave you feeling like you just bit into a slice of fall heaven.
Why use fresh apples when you can use dried apples? Dried fruits are packed with concentrated flavor and vitamins and boast a longer shelf life than fresh fruits. That means that making an apple pie doesn’t have to be reserved for autumnal harvests: this recipe allows you to make apple pies all year round by using my secret weapon – dried apples.
This dried apple pie recipe is perfect for impressing guests or indulging in a cozy night in. So grab some flour, sugar, butter and don’t forget those glorious dried apples – let’s get baking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There’s nothing quite like a slice of warm, homemade apple pie fresh from the oven. But have you ever tried a dried apple pie? If not, then you’re in for a real treat with this recipe. Not only does it allow you to use up any dried apples that you may have on hand, but it also provides a unique spin on the classic apple pie that is sure to impress your taste buds.
But why will you love this recipe? For starters, it’s incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, even novice bakers can achieve delicious results. And speaking of ingredients, this recipe calls for unsweetened apple cider and brown sugar, which add extra depth of flavor and richness to the finished product.
But perhaps the biggest reason to love this recipe is its versatility. It can be served hot or cold, on its own or with a scoop of ice cream. Plus, it’s perfect for any occasion – from cozy autumn nights in with loved ones to festive holiday gatherings.
So why settle for a regular apple pie when you can delight your senses with a delectable dried apple pie? Give this recipe a try and discover why it’s one of my all-time favorites.
Ingredient List
- 3 cups dried apples
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup unsweetened apple cider
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon grated fresh nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons butter
Note: You can make dried apples by yourself or buy them already dried. Make sure they are good quality and without any additives.
Equipment:
- Large bowl
- Small saucepan
- Measuring spoons
- Measuring cups
- Knife
- Cutting board
The Recipe How-To
Now that we have all the ingredients we need, it’s time to start cooking!
- Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
- In a large bowl, combine 3 cups of dried apples, 2 cups of unsweetened apple cider, 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar, and 1/2 cup of sugar. Mix well and let sit for approximately 15-20 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, combine 1/4 cup cornstarch, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Mix well.
- Pour boiling water over the dried apple mixture until it is completely covered. Let cool slightly, then transfer the mixture to a colander to drain any excess liquid.
- Combine the drained apple mixture with the dry ingredients in the second bowl and mix well.
- Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the apple mixture to the skillet and cook until it begins to thicken (approximately 10 minutes).
- Remove the skillet from the heat and allow it to cool for several minutes before transferring the mixture into a 9-inch pie crust.
- Cover the top of the pie with additional pie crust or use your favorite crumble topping.
- Place your pie on a baking sheet and bake for approximately 40-45 minutes, or until golden brown on top.
And just like that, you’ve got yourself a delicious dried apple pie ready to share with friends and family alike!
Substitutions and Variations
In the kitchen, you can always experiment with flavors to make a unique dish that’s entirely your own. With the dried apple pie recipe, there are numerous substitutions and variations that you can try to add new dimensions to this classic dessert.
For instance, you can switch the dried apples for other kinds of dehydrated fruit like cherries, cranberries, or even mix different kinds of dried fruits to make a dried fruit pie. You can also use freeze-dried apples instead of the dehydrated kind for a crispier texture.
If you’re not keen on using cornstarch as a thickener, you can substitute it with flour or arrowroot powder instead. Brown sugar adds a warm depth of flavor that white sugar can’t match. If you’re looking to cut back on sweeteners altogether, try adding spices like ginger, cardamom, or cloves for a more complex taste.
Adding some apple cider vinegar to your mixture will give your pie some tanginess that balances out the sweetness. If you enjoy apple slices in your dried apple pie, try experimenting with different spices like nutmeg or cloves or even adding raisins into the mix for extra chewiness.
When it comes to making hand pies from the same recipe, you’re only limited by your imagination on what fillings to put inside. You can experiment with other types of unsweetened apple juice or use different pie crusts like puff pastry or almond-flour-based crusts for a gluten-free option.
The possibilities are endless when it comes to the substitutions and variations of the dried apple pie recipe. With some ingenuity and creativity in flavor pairings and cooking techniques, you can elevate this dessert from a simple classic to an inspired masterpiece.
Serving and Pairing
Now that you have mastered the art of making a delicious dried apple pie, it’s time to start thinking about how best to serve and pair this delectable dessert. This pie is truly versatile and can be enjoyed on its own or paired with other foods to create a perfect complementary dish.
One of my favorite ways to enjoy dried apple pie is by serving it warm with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream, which provides the perfect balance of sweetness and creaminess to the tartness of the apples. If you want to take it to the next level, drizzle some caramel sauce over the top for an extra layer of flavor.
If you prefer a simpler pairing, try serving it alongside a hot cup of coffee or tea. The warmth of the beverage helps to bring out the flavors in the pie and is perfect for enjoying on a chilly evening.
For those who like a savory twist, pair your dried apple pie with some cheese, such as sharp cheddar or Gouda. The richness of the cheese pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the pie, creating a unique and satisfying flavor combination.
Lastly, if you’re feeling adventurous, try serving your dried apple pie with a glass of port wine or sherry. The bold flavors in these drinks help to bring out the spices in the pie and complement the sweet notes from the apples.
Regardless of how you choose to serve your dried apple pie, one thing is certain – there’s no wrong way to do it. Experiment with different pairings and find what works best for you. Who knows – you may even discover a new favorite flavor combination!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
Once you prepare and bake the dried apple pie, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to five days. To maximize your pie’s lifespan, ensure that it’s tightly covered with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container.
If you’re making the pie days before serving or want to freeze it for later use, wrap it firmly with aluminum foil and put it in an airtight container. Remember not to add whipped cream until just before serving. You don’t need to thaw the pie before reheating.
To reheat the pie, preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and place your pie on the middle rack. Bake for approximately 15 minutes before removing it from the oven. If you’re reheating individual slices, place each cut piece on a baking sheet and heat until warm, which takes around five minutes.
When making hand pies or fried apple pies, you can store leftovers in an airtight container for several days. For optimal freshness, heat them up in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for five minutes or until warm through.
With these storing and reheating tips, enjoying your delicious dried apple pie anytime is possible!
Tips for Perfect Results
You’ve got your ingredients ready, you followed the step-by-step instructions from the recipe, and now it’s time to bake your dried apple pie. But wait! Before you toss it in the oven, here are some tips to ensure that it comes out perfect:
1. Use the Right Apples
As with any apple pie recipe, choosing the right apples is crucial. For this dried apple pie recipe, use apples that are tart and firm to hold up their shape after being rehydrated. Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples work great for this recipe.
2. Opt for Unsweetened Apple Cider
When making the filling, use unsweetened apple cider instead of regular sweetened apple juice or cider. The tartness of the unsweetened version balances out the sweetness of the dried apples and sugar in the pie.
3. Don’t Skip the Cornstarch
Cornstarch is used in the filling to thicken it up without adding any flavor. Without cornstarch, your filling may be runny and not set properly.
4. Add Spices Gradually
This dried apple pie recipe calls for cinnamon and nutmeg – two warm spices that add a cozy aroma and taste to your pie. However, adding too much of either spice can overpower the flavors of your other ingredients. Start with a small amount and add more if needed.
5. Chill Your Dough
Before rolling out your pie crust dough, chill it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes (or overnight). Chilled dough is easier to work with and results in a flakier crust.
6. Brush Your Top Crust with Milk
To achieve a golden brown top crust, brush it with a thin layer of milk or egg wash before baking. This also helps to seal any gaps or holes in your crust.
7. Decorate Your Pie Crust
Add some creativity to your dried apple pie by decorating your top crust with cut-out shapes or a lattice pattern. Not only does it look impressive, but it also allows steam to escape from your pie while baking.
By following these tips, you’re sure to have a picture-perfect dried apple pie that’s deliciously crispy on top with tender fruit underneath – just like Grandma used to make!
Bottom Line
In sum, this recipe for dried apple pie is a truly delightful treat that will have your taste buds singing! With its combination of soft and flavorful dried apples, warm cinnamon, and savory nutmeg, this recipe is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a newbie in the kitchen, these easy-to-follow instructions will help you create a scrumptious pie every time. Plus, with the option to make hand pies or a traditional 9-inch pie, there’s something for everyone.
Not only is this recipe delicious, but it also offers versatility in terms of substitutions and variations. You can substitute different types of fruits or experiment with different spices to enhance the flavor even further. Whichever way you choose to personalize your dried apple pie, you are sure to be rewarded with an irresistible dessert.
So what are you waiting for? Head on over to the kitchen and let’s get baking! With all of these helpful tips and tricks at your fingertips, there’s no reason not to whip up a batch of homemade dried apple pie today. Your friends and family will thank you for it!
Dried Apple Pie Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 cups dried apples
- 3 cups water
- 1 dash salt
- 3/4-1 cup sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
Instructions
- Simmer dried apples, salt, sugar, nutmeg and cinnamon in 3 cups water for 10 minutes. Mix cornstarch and 1/4 cup water; add to apple mixture. Pour into a prepared pie crust, dot with butter, add top crust. Bake at 400* for 40-50 minutes.
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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.