If you’re craving a slice of warmth and nostalgia, this Apple Pie recipe is your ticket! Bursting with sweet, spiced apple filling and nestled in a flaky, buttery crust (made without traditional butter!), this plant-based dessert is perfect for any occasion. It’s simple to whip up from scratch, making it a great choice for festive gatherings or cozy nights in. Bring the magic of homemade apple pie to your table and watch as smiles spread all around!
Budget information
Total Recipe Cost: $10.50
Cost Per Serving: $1.75 (assuming 6 servings)
Why This Recipe Works
This Apple Pie is a true gem because it embraces the classic flavors we all love, yet it’s incredibly straightforward to make! By swapping out butter for olive oil and using a combination of whole wheat and all-purpose flour, you’ll create a crust that’s not only flaky but also has a hint of nutty goodness. The filling is delicately spiced and not overly sweet, making every bite a harmonious blend of textures and flavors. It’s the kind of recipe that makes your home smell like a cozy bakery, inviting everyone to gather around for a slice (or two!).
Ingredients + optional substitutions
For the Pie Crust:
– 1 cup whole wheat flour ($0.75)
– ½ cup all-purpose flour ($0.25)
– ÂĽ cup olive oil ($0.60)
– ÂĽ teaspoon salt ($0.05)
– Water (as needed, approx. $0.01)
For the Apple Filling:
– 2 medium-sized apples, peeled and sliced ($2.00)
– ÂĽ teaspoon ground cinnamon ($0.05)
– ÂĽ teaspoon ground nutmeg ($0.05)
– 2 tablespoons whole wheat flour ($0.10)
– 2 tablespoons demerara sugar (or your choice of sugar, $0.15)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegan butter (for topping, $0.15)
Additional Toppings:
– Pinches of ground cinnamon for sprinkling ($0.01)
– Pinches of raw sugar for sprinkling ($0.01)
– 1-2 teaspoons soy milk or any nut milk for glazing ($0.10)
Step-by-step recipe instructions
Step 1: Start off by preparing your pie crust. In a large bowl, combine 1 cup of whole wheat flour, ½ cup of all-purpose flour, and ¼ teaspoon of salt. This combination gives your crust a wonderfully nutty flavor while maintaining that classic pie texture. Sift these ingredients together to ensure an even mix, as this step is crucial for a light crust.
Step 2: Next, add in ÂĽ cup of olive oil to the flour mixture. Using your fingertips, gently mix the olive oil into the flour until it resembles breadcrumbs. This technique is key for achieving that perfect flaky crust you dream about!
Step 3: Now it’s time to bind everything together. Gradually sprinkle water into the mixture, just a splash at a time, and continue to use your hands to form the dough. You don’t want to knead here, just bring it together until it forms a ball. Cover the dough and let it rest while you work on the filling.
Step 4: For the filling, peel, core, and slice your apples into thin wedges. Aim for about a ÂĽ-inch thickness to ensure they cook evenly.
Step 5: In a large mixing bowl, throw in your apple slices with ÂĽ teaspoon of ground cinnamon, ÂĽ teaspoon of ground nutmeg, 2 tablespoons of whole wheat flour, and 2 tablespoons of demerara sugar. Mix well to coat all the apple slices with this delightful, fragrant mixture; this will make your filling wonderfully aromatic and balanced.
Step 6: Preheat your oven to 180 degrees Celsius (or 356 degrees Fahrenheit) while you prepare the crust. Lightly grease a pie pan with olive oil to ensure your pie comes out easily after baking.
Step 7: Flour a work surface and divide the dough in half. Roll out one half into a circle that’s about ¼ inch thick, trying to keep it even throughout. Carefully transfer this crust to your greased pie pan and gently press it into place to cover the bottom and sides.
Step 8: Pour the spiced apple filling into the prepared crust, spreading it out evenly to create a nice layer.
Step 9: Drizzle a few drops of olive oil or vegan butter over the apples to help keep the filling juicy as it bakes. Now, you can either cover the pie completely with the second rolled-out crust or create a beautiful lattice pattern for a rustic touch!
Step 10: If covering with a solid layer, make sure to cut a small slit in the top crust to let steam escape. If you’re opting for a lattice, carefully weave the strips over the filling and secure the edges well.
Step 11: Brush the top crust lightly with soy milk (or any nut milk) and sprinkle with a little extra sugar and cinnamon for that extra sweetness and shine.
Step 12: Bake your masterpiece in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the apples are bubbly and fully cooked. Your kitchen will smell incredible during this time!
Step 13: Once baked, allow the pie to cool slightly before slicing. This helps the filling set a bit more, making for easier serving. Slice, serve warm, and get ready for the oohs and aahs!
Nutritional Facts
Calories: 249
Protein: 4g
Carbohydrates: 37g
Total Fats: 10g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 11g
Sodium: 197mg
Storage and reheating tips
If you have any leftovers (though I doubt it!), simply cover the pie with plastic wrap and refrigerate it. It will stay fresh for about a week. You can also freeze the pie for up to a month! Just make sure to let it cool completely before wrapping it up tightly in cling film. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat in the oven until warmed through for that freshly baked experience!
Serving suggestions
Serve this delightful apple pie warm, perhaps with a scoop of vegan vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top for an extra special treat. It’s also delicious on its own, letting all those warm spices and sweet apple flavors shine through. Pair it with a hot cup of coffee or tea for the ultimate cozy experience!
Reader tips or helpful notes
Feel free to experiment with apple varieties for your filling! Some of my favorites are Granny Smith for tartness or Honeycrisp for sweetness. Also, don’t hesitate to customize the spices to your liking—add some ground ginger or cloves for an extra kick! And remember, the key to a perfect pie is allowing it to cool slightly before serving. It will help the filling set and be much easier to slice. Enjoy your baking adventure!
Recipe FAQs
Can I use different types of apples for the pie?
Absolutely! Mixing sweet and tart apples will give you a complex flavor that can elevate your pie. Try using Granny Smith and Honeycrisp for the best of both worlds!
What if I don’t have whole wheat flour?
No problem! You can substitute all-purpose flour instead. Just keep in mind that the texture and flavor might be slightly different, but still delicious!
How should I store the pie if I have leftovers?
Store any leftovers in the fridge by wrapping them in plastic wrap. They will stay fresh for about a week. You can also freeze the pie for future indulgence!
Can I make the crust ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough a day or two in advance. Just wrap it tightly in plastic and refrigerate until you’re ready to use it.
What if I want a gluten-free option?
You can replace the flours with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup for cup like regular flour. The crust texture will be different, but it’s worth trying!
