vegan Apple Pie

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There’s nothing more comforting than a slice of homemade apple pie, especially when it’s vegan! This recipe captures the essence of traditional apple pie while ensuring it’s entirely plant-based. With a flaky crust, sweet apple filling, and a touch of cinnamon, this vegan apple pie is perfect for any gathering or simply enjoyed with a cup of herbal tea at home.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This vegan apple pie stands out for several reasons. First and foremost, it’s completely dairy-free and egg-free, making it suitable for those following a vegan lifestyle. The crust is light and flaky, thanks to the unique addition of soda water, which helps create the perfect texture without any compromise on taste. The combination of sweet and tart apples, paired with aromatic spices, will fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma as it bakes. Plus, it’s easy enough for beginners and delicious enough to impress seasoned bakers!

Ingredients

To create this mouthwatering vegan apple pie, gather 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

How To Make vegan Apple Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, salt, and baking powder. Stir them well to ensure even distribution.

Next, add the non-dairy butter to the dry ingredients, using your fingers or a pastry cutter to mix it in until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Now, slowly pour in the soda water, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Gently mix until a dough forms. Be careful not to overwork the dough, as this can result in a tough crust. Divide the dough in half, shape each half into a ball, flatten them into disks, and wrap them in plastic wrap. Chill for at least 30 minutes in the fridge.

Step 2: Prepare the Apple Filling

While the dough is chilling, peel and core your apples—about 4 to 6 medium-sized apples, depending on their size. Slice them thinly and place them in a large bowl. Add the remaining granulated sugar, a pinch of salt, and a sprinkle of cinnamon (if desired) for added flavor. Toss the apple slices until they are well coated.

Let the apples sit for about 10 minutes to release some juices, then stir in the lemon juice. This combination of sweet and tart will enhance the flavor of the filling.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

Once the dough has chilled, take one disk out of the fridge. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough into a large circle, about 1/8 inch thick. Carefully transfer the rolled dough to a greased pie dish. Trim any excess dough hanging over the edges.

Repeat this process with the second disk of dough for the top crust, making sure to roll it out evenly.

Step 4: Assemble the Pie

Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F). Arrange the prepared apple filling in the bottom crust, packing it gently but firmly. Place the top crust over the apple filling. You can either cut slits into the top crust for a classic lattice effect or simply cover it entirely. If you’ve opted for the full crust, make several slits in the top to allow steam to escape.

Crimp the edges together to seal, and brush the top crust with a bit of melted non-dairy butter for a lovely golden finish.

Step 5: Bake the Pie

Place the assembled pie in the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. Keep an eye on the pie; if the edges brown too quickly, cover them with aluminum foil to prevent burning.

Once done, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for at least an hour. This cooling period allows the filling to set, making it easier to slice.

Expert Tips

• For the best flavor, use a mix of sweet and tart apples, such as Granny Smith and Honeycrisp.
• Let the dough rest sufficiently; this will help create a flaky texture.
• Don’t skip on chilling the dough before rolling it out—it’s vital for tenderness!
• Experiment with spices! Adding a pinch of nutmeg or allspice can give your filling an extra depth of flavor.

Variations and Customizations

• Add raisins or dried cranberries to the apple filling for a unique twist!
• Try using coconut oil in place of non-dairy butter for a subtle coconut flavor.
• For a caramelized twist, add a bit of brown sugar or maple syrup to the apple filling.
• Incorporate chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, for added texture and flavor.

How to Store Leftovers

This vegan apple pie keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To store, cover it with plastic wrap or foil to keep it fresh. If you’d like to enjoy it later, you can freeze slices for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw the pie in the fridge overnight and then warm it in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 15 minutes before serving.

FAQ

Can I use other fruits besides apples?

Absolutely! You can substitute apples with other fruits like pears, peaches, or berries. Just adjust the sugar according to the sweetness of the fruits you choose.

Is this vegan apple pie gluten-free?

This particular recipe uses all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. However, you can easily substitute it with a gluten-free flour blend to make it gluten-free!

Can I make the pie crust ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the pie crust in advance. Simply wrap the disks of dough tightly in plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to 3 months.

How do I know when the pie is done baking?

The pie is done when the crust is a beautiful golden brown, and you can see the filling bubbling through the slits in the top crust. If the edges brown too soon, cover them with foil to prevent burning.

Conclusion

This vegan apple pie is a celebration of flavor and comfort, perfect for any occasion or simply a delightful treat after a long day. Easy to make and versatile in its ingredients, this plant-based dessert is bound to become a favorite in your home. Embrace the warmth and nostalgia of homemade apple pie, and enjoy every last slice! Happy baking!

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