Introduction
Apple pie is a timeless classic, evoking memories of warmth, comfort, and delicious indulgence. However, for those following a vegan lifestyle or with dietary restrictions, traditional apple pie recipes may seem off-limits. Fear not! In this article, we present a delightful twist on the classic apple pie recipe that is entirely vegan-friendly. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you can create a mouthwatering vegan apple pie that will impress vegans and non-vegans alike at any occasion.
Ingredients:
- For the Crust:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup vegan butter, cold and cubed
- 1 tsp salt
- 6-8 tbsp ice water
- For the Filling:
- 6-7 medium-sized apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced (use a mix of sweet and tart varieties like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
- For the Topping (Optional):
- 1 tbsp almond milk (or any non-dairy milk)
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the crust:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
- Add the cold vegan butter cubes and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add the ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together.
- Divide the dough into two equal parts, shape each into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Prepare the filling:
- In a separate bowl, combine the sliced apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Mix until the apples are evenly coated.
- Assemble the pie:
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disc of the chilled dough into a circle large enough to line the bottom and sides of a 9-inch pie dish.
- Transfer the rolled-out dough to the pie dish, gently pressing it into the bottom and sides.
- Pour the apple filling into the pie crust, spreading it out evenly.
- Roll out the second disc of dough and place it over the apple filling. You can either cover the pie completely or create a lattice crust for a decorative touch.
- Optional topping:
- If desired, brush the top crust with almond milk and sprinkle with a mixture of granulated sugar and cinnamon.
- Bake the pie:
- Place the assembled pie on a baking sheet (to catch any drips) and bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
- Allow the pie to cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy your delicious vegan apple pie!
Conclusion
With this easy vegan apple pie recipe, you can enjoy the classic flavors of apple pie without compromising your vegan lifestyle. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating a special occasion, or simply craving a comforting dessert, this vegan apple pie is sure to delight your taste buds and impress your guests. Give it a try and experience the perfect blend of sweet, tart, and spice in every bite!
Questions And Answer’s:
- Question: Can I use coconut oil instead of vegan butter for the crust? Answer: Yes, you can substitute coconut oil for vegan butter in the crust recipe. Make sure the coconut oil is solid at room temperature, similar to the consistency of vegan butter. You may need to adjust the amount of ice water slightly, as coconut oil tends to be oilier than vegan butter.
- Question: Is it necessary to peel the apples for the filling? Answer: While it’s not absolutely necessary to peel the apples, it’s generally recommended for a smoother texture in the pie filling. The apple peels can become tough and chewy during baking, detracting from the overall experience. However, if you prefer the rustic look and texture of unpeeled apples, feel free to leave the peels on.
- Question: Can I make the pie crust ahead of time and freeze it? Answer: Yes, you can prepare the pie crust ahead of time and freeze it for later use. After shaping the dough into discs, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag or airtight container. When ready to use, thaw the crust in the refrigerator overnight before rolling it out and assembling the pie.
- Question: What are some alternatives to granulated sugar in the filling? Answer: You can use alternative sweeteners such as maple syrup, agave nectar, or coconut sugar as substitutes for granulated sugar in the filling. Keep in mind that these alternatives may alter the flavor and texture slightly, so it’s best to adjust the amount to taste and be mindful of the liquid content of the sweetener.
- Question: Can I make this pie gluten free? Answer: Yes, you can make a gluten-free version of this pie by using a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour for the crust. Additionally, ensure that any other ingredients you use, such as thickening agents or sweeteners, are also gluten-free. Be aware that the texture of the crust may differ slightly from the original recipe, but it should still be delicious!