Vegan Apple Pie

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There’s something truly magical about the combination of tender, spiced apples cradled in a flaky, buttery crust. This vegan apple pie is not only delicious but also incredibly simple to prepare. By using soda water and non-dairy butter, we achieve a crust that’s perfectly flaky, while keeping it vegan for everyone to enjoy. Let’s dive into the comforting world of baking and make a pie that will impress family and friends alike!

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This vegan apple pie is a celebration of flavors and textures, providing the perfect balance of sweet and tart with the apples. The crust is light and flaky, thanks to the unique combination of ingredients that ensure every bite melts in your mouth. Whether you’re an experienced baker or trying your hand at pies for the first time, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding. Plus, it’s perfect for sharing during gatherings or simply enjoying with a scoop of vegan ice cream!

Ingredients

To make this vegan apple pie, you will need the following ingredients:

• 250 ml soda water
• 120 ml non-dairy butter (plus extra for greasing)
• 150 g granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• 500 g all-purpose flour
• 5-6 medium-sized apples, peeled and sliced (preferably a mix of tart and sweet)
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch or flour (for thickening the filling)

How To Make Vegan Apple Pie

Prepare the Crust

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, salt, and baking powder.
2. Melt the non-dairy butter in a small saucepan or microwave until just melted, but not bubbling.
3. Pour the melted butter and soda water into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until the mixture begins to come together.
4. Knead the dough lightly on a floured surface just until smooth. Be careful not to overwork the dough, as this can make the crust tough.
5. Divide the dough in half and shape each half into a disc. Wrap them in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

Prepare the Apple Filling

1. While the dough chills, peel and slice your apples. Aim for consistent thickness to ensure even baking.
2. In a large bowl, toss the apple slices with lemon juice, ground cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and the cornstarch. This will help to thicken the filling and enhance the flavors.
3. Let the apple mixture sit for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Assemble the Pie

1. Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F).
2. Grease a 9-inch pie dish with a little melted non-dairy butter.
3. Roll out one of the chilled dough discs on a floured surface until it’s large enough to cover the bottom and sides of the pie dish. Transfer the dough to the dish and gently press it into place.
4. Fill the crust with the apple mixture, spreading it evenly.
5. Roll out the second dough disc and lay it over the apples. You can either leave it whole with slits for steam to escape or cut it into strips for a lattice topping.
6. Press the edges together and trim any excess dough. Crimp the edges with your fingers or a fork for a decorative touch.

Bake Your Pie

1. Brush the top of the pie with a little non-dairy butter for extra shine.
2. Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
3. Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for about 30 minutes before slicing. This cooling time helps the filling to set.

Expert Tips

• Choose a variety of apples to create a more complex flavor profile. A mix of tart and sweet apples, such as Granny Smith and Honeycrisp, works well.
• For an extra element of flavor, consider adding a splash of maple syrup to the apple filling.
• Ensure your ingredients, especially the non-dairy butter, are cold for a flakier crust.
• Don’t rush the chilling process of the dough—it’s crucial for achieving the perfect texture.

Variations and Customizations

• Try adding dried cranberries or raisins to the apple filling for a chewy texture.
• If you prefer a sweeter pie, feel free to increase the sugar in the apple filling.
• Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the filling for extra crunch.
• Experiment with spices by adding allspice, ginger, or cloves for a different flavor twist.

How to Store Leftovers

To store leftover vegan apple pie, cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. If you prefer to freeze it, ensure it’s completely cooled before wrapping it tightly in cling film or aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven to crisp up the crust again.

FAQ

Can I make this vegan apple pie gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure you also use gluten-free certified cornstarch for the filling.

What type of apples are best for an apple pie?

A combination of sweet and tart apples works the best for apple pie. Popular choices include Granny Smith, Fuji, Honeycrisp, and Braeburn.

Can I prepare the filling in advance?

Absolutely! You can slice the apples and mix them with the other filling ingredients a day in advance. Just store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

How do I prevent my pie crust from becoming soggy?

To prevent a soggy crust, you can pre-bake the crust for a few minutes before adding the filling. This helps to set the bottom crust. Additionally, be sure not to overfill the pie to allow for proper baking and evaporation of any excess moisture.

Conclusion

This vegan apple pie recipe is more than just a dessert; it’s a warm hug in pie form that evokes nostalgic memories of home and family gatherings. With simple, wholesome ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a delicious pie that everyone can enjoy, regardless of their dietary choices. So, roll up your sleeves, throw on an apron, and let the sweetness of apple pie fill your kitchen and your hearts. Happy baking!

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