This creamy apple pie features a rich, velvety filling made from a delicious apple pudding base, topped with a buttery, flaky crust. Perfect for any occasion, this dessert combines the sweetness of apples with a creamy texture that will melt in your mouth. Whether for a special gathering or a weeknight treat, this apple pie is sure to be a favorite.
Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes for the dough, plus additional time for preparing the apple pudding and cream
Total Time: 1 hour (including baking and assembling)
Servings: 8-10 servings
Ingredients:
- 6-7 medium-sized apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon butter, for greasing
- 1 pre-made pie crust or homemade dough
Directions:
- Prepare the Apple Pudding:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the milk, heavy cream, sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract.
- Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens into a pudding-like consistency.
- Stir in lemon juice, then remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
- Prepare the Apples:
- In a separate pan, sauté the sliced apples with a bit of butter over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, just until they begin to soften.
- Set the apples aside to cool.
- Assemble the Pie:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Roll out your pie dough and line a pie dish with it, then blind-bake the crust for 10-12 minutes until lightly golden.
- Once the crust has cooled, fill it with the sautéed apples and pour the apple pudding mixture over the top.
- Spread evenly and smooth the surface.
- Bake the Pie:
- Bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.
- Allow the pie to cool before refrigerating it for at least an hour to set completely.
- Serve:
- Slice and serve chilled, topped with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream if desired.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve slices of this creamy apple pie chilled, accompanied by a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence.
- Drizzle caramel sauce over each slice for a sweet finishing touch.
- Top with chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, for added texture.
- Pair with a hot cup of tea or coffee to balance the sweetness.
- Serve as a dessert after a hearty meal, alongside a fresh fruit salad for a light contrast.
Cooking Tips:
- Ensure the apple pudding is cooled before assembling, so it doesn’t melt the pie crust.
- You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
- For an extra golden crust, brush the edges with an egg wash before baking.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Apples are high in fiber and antioxidants, which contribute to digestive health and overall well-being.
- The heavy cream provides a rich source of calcium and healthy fats, though it can be substituted for lower-fat options if desired.
- Cinnamon, a key spice in this pie, has anti-inflammatory properties and can help regulate blood sugar levels.
Dietary Information:
- Gluten: Yes (if using regular pie crust)
- Dairy: Contains dairy (can be substituted for a dairy-free version)
- Vegetarian: Yes
- Nut-Free: Contains nuts in the serving suggestions, but the pie itself is nut-free
Nutritional Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 290
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 20g
Storage:
- Store any leftover pie in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- You can also freeze the pie (without the whipped cream) for up to 3 months. Just be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
This creamy apple pie is the perfect combination of a crunchy, buttery crust and a smooth, velvety filling. The subtle sweetness of apples combined with the richness of the cream and spices creates a dessert that feels both comforting and indulgent. It’s easy to prepare yet elegant enough for any occasion.
Conclusion:
This creamy apple pie is the ideal dessert for autumn gatherings, family dinners, or simply a cozy night in. With its luscious apple pudding filling and flaky crust, it’s sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. Whether enjoyed on its own or with a scoop of ice cream, each bite is a delightful treat. Make it once, and it’ll become a regular in your baking rotation.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use frozen apples for this recipe?
- While fresh apples are recommended for the best texture, you can use frozen apples. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before using.
- Can I substitute the pie crust for something else?
- Yes, you can use a graham cracker crust or a gluten-free pie crust for a different texture and flavor.
- How do I prevent the crust from getting soggy?
- Blind-bake the crust before adding the filling to help it hold its shape and prevent sogginess.
- Can I use a different type of milk in this recipe?
- Yes, almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk can be used as dairy-free alternatives.
- How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
- Can I freeze the apple pie?
- Yes, freeze the pie (without the whipped cream) for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
- Can I add other fruits to the pie?
- Yes, adding a handful of berries or pears can create a delicious variation.
- How long should I let the pie cool before serving?
- Allow the pie to cool for at least 1 hour before slicing. For best results, chill it in the fridge for 2-3 hours.
- How do I prevent the filling from becoming too runny?
- Make sure the apple pudding is thickened enough before pouring it over the apples, and allow the pie to set in the fridge after baking.
- Can I make this apple pie ahead of time?
- Yes, you can make the pie a day in advance. Just refrigerate it until ready to serve.