Gluten free apple pie
The aroma of warm cinnamon and baking apples always transports me back to my grandmother’s kitchen. Those crisp autumn days, the golden light streaming through the window, and a freshly baked apple pie cooling on the counter—it’s a core memory for me, Emilia, a mom of three who truly believes food is love. For years, I perfected her classic apple pie, a family treasure.
Then, life threw a curveball when my eldest developed a gluten sensitivity. My heart sank a little, thinking those cherished pie moments might be gone forever. But as any mom knows, you find a way to make sure everyone feels included, especially around the dinner table.
That’s when my mission began: to create a gluten free apple pie that tasted exactly like the original. After countless experiments, a few glorious successes, and a couple of, shall we say, “learning opportunities,” I finally cracked the code. This recipe for gluten free apple pie isn’t just a dessert; it’s a testament to preserving traditions and ensuring everyone, regardless of dietary needs, can enjoy a slice of pure comfort.
It’s so good, even my pickiest eaters (and their gluten-loving friends!) ask for this homemade gluten free apple pie by name. Trust me, this is the gluten free apple pie recipe you’ve been searching for.
Why You’ll Love This Gluten Free Apple Pie Recipe
You might wonder what makes this particular gluten free apple pie so special, and I’m so excited to tell you! First, and most importantly, it truly tastes like the apple pie you grew up with. No one will guess it’s GF apple pie.
The crust is flaky, buttery, and golden brown, holding its shape beautifully. We banish all fears of a crumbly, dry gluten-free crust with this recipe. Second, the filling bursts with tender, perfectly spiced apples – not mushy, not too firm, but just right.
We strike that ideal balance of sweet and tart, making every bite a delight. Third, this recipe is surprisingly straightforward. I’ve broken down each step to make it approachable for even beginner bakers.
You don’t need fancy equipment or advanced pastry skills to create this show-stopping gluten free apple pie. Finally, it brings people together. Food is love, and sharing a delicious dessert like this homemade gluten free apple pie with everyone at your table, knowing it caters to all, is a joy beyond words. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this incredible gluten free apple pie recipe!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Crafting the perfect gluten free apple pie starts with quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll gather for a truly unforgettable pie. I’ve found that using a good quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend (one that contains xanthan gum) makes a world of difference for the crust, giving it that familiar elasticity and tenderness.
Always ensure your butter is very cold; it’s the secret to a flaky crust for your classic gluten free apple pie. For the apples, a mix of sweet and tart varieties provides the best flavor and texture. Don’t skimp on the spices; they infuse the pie with that quintessential autumnal warmth. This combination yields an amazing gluten free apple pie from scratch.
For the Gluten-Free Pie Crust:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Gluten-Free All-Purpose Flour Blend | 2 ½ cups | (with xanthan gum) |
| Granulated Sugar | 1 tablespoon | |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon | |
| Unsalted Butter | 1 cup (2 sticks) | Very cold, cubed |
| Ice Water | ½ to ¾ cup |
For the Apple Pie Filling:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Apples (mixed varieties) | 6-8 medium | About 6-7 cups sliced, peeled, cored |
| Granulated Sugar | ½ cup | Adjust to apple sweetness |
| Brown Sugar (packed) | ¼ cup | Adds depth of flavor |
| All-Purpose GF Flour Blend | 2 tablespoons | For thickening |
| Cinnamon | 1 teaspoon | |
| Nutmeg | ½ teaspoon | Freshly grated is best |
| Allspice | ¼ teaspoon | |
| Lemon Juice | 1 tablespoon | Prevents browning, brightens flavor |
| Unsalted Butter | 2 tablespoons | Cut into small pieces, for dotting |
| Egg Wash (1 egg + 1 tbsp water) | For brushing crust | |
| Coarse Sugar | 1 tablespoon | For sprinkling (optional) |
Substitutions & Variations
Flexibility is key in the kitchen, especially when making a gluten free apple pie. This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, allowing you to tailor it to your family’s tastes or dietary needs. You can easily make this a dairy-free gluten free apple pie by swapping the butter in the crust for a high-quality, cold, plant-based butter alternative.
Make sure it’s a block-style vegan butter for best results. For the filling, a touch of maple syrup or agave can replace some of the granulated sugar if you prefer, though I love the caramel notes the brown sugar brings to this simple gluten free apple pie. Experiment with different spice combinations too!
A pinch of cardamom or a tiny bit of ground cloves can add another layer of complexity. If you’re not a fan of traditional crusts, consider a gluten free apple crumble pie. Simply top your apple filling with a mixture of gluten-free oats, GF flour, brown sugar, and cold butter, then bake.
Another fun twist for your homemade gluten free apple pie is to add a handful of dried cranberries or chopped walnuts to the apple mixture for extra texture and flavor. This truly is a versatile GF apple pie recipe!
After mastering these dietary swaps for your dessert, you might be looking for more savory family favorites that accommodate gluten sensitivities. I highly recommend trying our comforting and hearty Gluten Free Shepherds Pie.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making a show-stopping gluten free apple pie might seem daunting, but I promise, by following these simple steps, you’ll achieve perfection every time. We’ll start with the crust, which is the foundation of any great flaky gluten free apple pie. Then, we prepare the luscious apple filling. Precision here ensures that the easy gluten free apple pie turns out amazing.
Note: This video is for demonstration purposes and may use a slightly different method.
- Prepare the Gluten-Free Pie Crust: In a large bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour blend, granulated sugar, and salt. Cut the very cold butter into small cubes and add it to the flour mixture. Use a pastry blender or your fingertips to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with some pea-sized pieces of butter remaining.
- Add Ice Water: Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently until the dough just comes together. Do not overmix. The dough should be moist enough to hold together but not sticky.
- Chill the Dough: Divide the dough into two equal portions. Flatten each portion into a disk, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 days. This chilling step is crucial for a tender, flaky gluten free pie crust for apple pie.
- Preheat Oven & Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch pie dish.
- Roll Out the First Crust: On a lightly floured surface (use more GF flour), roll out one disk of dough into a 12-inch circle. Carefully transfer it to the prepared pie dish, letting the excess hang over the edges. Trim any large excess, leaving about a 1-inch overhang. Place the pie dish in the refrigerator while you prepare the filling.
- Prepare the Apple Filling: In a large bowl, combine the peeled, cored, and sliced apples. Add the granulated sugar, brown sugar, gluten-free all-purpose flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and lemon juice. Toss gently until the apples are evenly coated.
- Assemble the Pie: Remove the chilled pie crust from the refrigerator. Pour the apple filling into the pie crust, mounding it slightly in the center. Dot the top of the apples with small pieces of butter.
- Add the Top Crust: Roll out the second disk of dough into an 11-inch circle. Place it over the apple filling. Trim the edges to match the bottom crust, then crimp the edges together to seal the pie. Cut several slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking. You can also create a lattice top for an extra beautiful gourmet gluten free apple pie.
- Egg Wash & Sugar: In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water for the egg wash. Brush the top crust evenly with the egg wash and sprinkle with coarse sugar, if desired. This gives the golden gluten free apple pie a beautiful shine.
- Bake the Pie: Place the pie on a baking sheet (to catch any drips) and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 15 minutes.
- Reduce Heat & Continue Baking: Reduce the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and continue baking for another 45-55 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling thick. If the crust starts to brown too quickly, loosely tent the pie with aluminum foil.
- Cool Completely: This is a critical step! Let the freshly baked gluten free apple pie cool on a wire rack for at least 2-3 hours before slicing and serving. This allows the filling to set properly, preventing a runny pie. Patience is truly a virtue when making a fantastic gluten free apple pie recipe.
Pro Tips for Success
Achieving a truly exceptional gluten free apple pie comes down to a few insider tips I’ve learned over the years. These small adjustments make a huge difference in the final outcome. First, and perhaps most important, is the temperature of your butter for the crust.
It absolutely *must* be very cold, almost frozen. Cold butter creates steam in the oven, which separates the layers of flour, leading to that incredible flakiness we all love in a good flaky gluten free apple pie crust. When mixing the dough, use minimal handling.
Overworking gluten-free dough can make it tough, just like regular dough. Second, don’t rush the chilling process for your homemade gluten free apple pie crust. A well-chilled dough is easier to roll out and holds its shape better.
Third, apple selection matters for your perfect gluten free apple pie. Use a mix of firm, tart apples (like Granny Smith) and sweeter ones (like Fuji or Honeycrisp) for a balanced flavor and texture that holds up well during baking. Fourth, pre-cook your apples slightly if you fear a gap between the crust and filling.
This simple step reduces the apple volume before baking. Lastly, the resting time after baking is non-negotiable for a delicious gluten free apple pie. It allows the filling to set completely, ensuring clean, beautiful slices. Patience makes all the difference for this amazing ultimate gluten free apple pie.
Mastering the temperature of your ingredients is a skill that translates well to many other quick and delicious meals. If you want a fast dinner option that also uses gluten-free ingredients perfectly, check out this Gluten Free Beef Stir Fry.
Storage & Reheating Tips
You’ve baked a glorious gluten free apple pie, and now you want to enjoy every last crumb. Proper storage ensures your pie stays delicious and fresh. For a freshly baked simple gluten free apple pie, you can leave it uncovered at room temperature for the first 24 hours, especially if your home isn’t too warm.
After that, or if you plan to keep it longer, cover the pie loosely with foil or plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The crust might soften slightly in the fridge, but the flavor will remain wonderful. To reheat a slice of your homemade gluten free apple pie, place it on a baking sheet and warm it in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
This method helps crisp up the crust again. You can also microwave individual slices, but the crust won’t be as crisp. For longer storage, you can freeze an entire baked gluten free apple pie.
Wrap the cooled pie tightly in several layers of plastic wrap, then a layer of aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat in the oven as described above for a warm, comforting slice of classic gluten free apple pie.
What to Serve With This Recipe
A slice of warm gluten free apple pie is a magnificent dessert on its own, but pairing it with the right accompaniment elevates the experience to pure bliss. My absolute favorite pairing, and a classic for a reason, is a scoop of good quality vanilla bean ice cream. The cold, creamy sweetness melts slightly into the warm, spiced apples, creating a heavenly mouthful.
If you’re going dairy-free with your dairy-free gluten free apple pie, a dairy-free vanilla ice cream works beautifully too! Another fantastic option is a generous dollop of freshly whipped cream. You can sweeten it lightly with a touch of powdered sugar and a hint of vanilla extract.
For an extra touch of decadence, drizzle a little homemade caramel sauce over your slice. The salty-sweet caramel perfectly complements the tart-sweet apples of your easy gluten free apple pie. Some people even enjoy a thin slice of sharp cheddar cheese alongside their apple pie; the savory tang is surprisingly delicious with the fruit.
A hot cup of coffee or a comforting mug of herbal tea also makes for a wonderful companion to this delightful homemade gluten free apple pie. No matter what you choose, prepare for smiles all around when serving this fantastic gluten free apple pie recipe.
While a sweet treat is the perfect ending to any day, finding great main course options is just as important for a balanced menu. For a fresh and flavorful dinner before your dessert, consider serving these Gluten Free Fish Tacos.
FAQs
Can I make gluten free apple pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pie crust dough up to two days in advance and keep it chilled in the refrigerator. You can also assemble the entire pie (without baking) and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours.
Just cover it loosely to prevent the crust from drying out. When ready to bake, add about 10-15 minutes to the initial baking time, as the pie will be starting from a colder temperature. This makes planning for a special occasion so much easier when you want to serve a fresh gluten free apple pie.
What kind of apples are best for gluten free apple pie?
For the best gluten free apple pie, I recommend using a mix of firm, crisp apples. Granny Smith apples are a must for their tartness and ability to hold their shape during baking. Pair them with sweeter, aromatic varieties like Honeycrisp, Fuji, Gala, or Braeburn.
This combination ensures a balanced flavor and texture, preventing your apple filling from becoming overly sweet or mushy. A good mix truly makes your homemade gluten free apple pie sing.
How do I prevent a soggy bottom in my gluten free apple pie?
Preventing a soggy bottom is a common concern for any apple pie, and especially for gluten free apple pie! First, make sure your bottom crust is rolled to an even thickness. Second, consider a very light blind bake of the bottom crust for about 10-15 minutes before adding the filling.
Third, ensure you use enough thickener (like the gluten-free flour in this recipe) in your apple filling. Finally, place your pie on a preheated baking sheet when it goes into the oven. The direct heat from the hot sheet helps to crisp the bottom crust immediately, giving you a perfectly sturdy flaky gluten free apple pie.
Is this gluten free apple pie recipe dairy-free?
As written, this gluten free apple pie recipe is not dairy-free, as it uses butter in both the crust and the filling. However, you can easily make it dairy-free by substituting a high-quality, cold, plant-based butter alternative for all the butter in the recipe. Choose a block-style vegan butter for the best results in the crust. This simple swap allows you to enjoy a delicious dairy-free gluten free apple pie!
How long does homemade gluten free apple pie last?
A freshly baked delicious gluten free apple pie can last for about 1-2 days at room temperature (covered loosely after the first 24 hours), or up to 3-4 days when stored covered in the refrigerator. For longer storage, you can freeze individual slices or the whole pie (well-wrapped) for up to 3 months. Always ensure the pie is completely cooled before storing to maintain its quality. You will love how well this classic gluten free apple pie holds up.
Creating the perfect gluten-free crust involves understanding the properties of alternative starches and binders. This process often mimics the structure of traditional apple pie recipes while ensuring the texture remains crisp and tender.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Here’s an estimated nutritional breakdown for one serving of this amazing homemade gluten free apple pie. Please note that these values are approximations and can vary based on specific ingredient brands, exact measurements, and serving sizes. This is calculated for one of 8 slices.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 kcal |
| Total Fat | 22g |
| Saturated Fat | 13g |
| Cholesterol | 55mg |
| Sodium | 190mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 55g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3g |
| Total Sugars | 30g |
| Protein | 4g |
gluten free apple pie
A homemade gluten-free apple pie with a flaky, buttery crust and a perfectly spiced sweet-tart apple filling, designed to taste just like the traditional classic.
- Total Time: 285 mins
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Ingredients
2.5 cups Gluten-Free All-Purpose Flour Blend
1 tablespoon Granulated Sugar
1 teaspoon Salt
1 cup Unsalted Butter
0.75 cup Ice Water
8 medium Apples
0.5 cup Granulated Sugar
0.25 cup Brown Sugar
2 tablespoons All-Purpose GF Flour Blend
1 teaspoon Cinnamo
0.5 teaspoon Nutmeg
0.25 teaspoon Allspice
1 tablespoon Lemon Juice
2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter
1 unit Egg
1 tablespoon Water
1 tablespoon Coarse Sugar
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together the 2.5 cups gluten-free flour blend, 1 tablespoon granulated sugar, and salt. Cut the cold butter into small cubes and incorporate into the flour with a pastry blender until it resembles coarse crumbs
- Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently until the dough just comes together without being sticky
- Divide the dough into two equal portions, flatten into disks, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and lightly grease a 9-inch pie dish
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disk of dough into a 12-inch circle. Transfer it to the pie dish, leaving a 1-inch overhang, and refrigerate while preparing the filling
- In a large bowl, combine the peeled and sliced apples with the sugars, GF flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and lemon juice. Toss until evenly coated
- Pour the apple filling into the chilled pie crust and dot the top with the 2 tablespoons of butter pieces
- Roll out the second disk of dough into an 11-inch circle and place it over the filling. Trim, crimp the edges to seal, and cut several steam slits in the top crust
- Whisk the egg and water to create an egg wash. Brush the top crust and sprinkle with coarse sugar if desired
- Place the pie on a baking sheet and bake at 425°F for 15 minutes
- Reduce the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and continue baking for 45-55 minutes until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbling
- Cool the pie on a wire rack for at least 2-3 hours before slicing to allow the filling to set
Notes
Ensure butter is extremely cold (almost frozen) to achieve a flaky crust.
Use a mix of firm, tart apples like Granny Smith combined with sweeter varieties like Fuji or Honeycrisp.
To make this dairy-free, substitute the butter with a high-quality cold block-style plant-based butter alternative.
If the crust browns too quickly, loosely tent it with aluminum foil during the last part of baking.
- Prep Time: 45 mins
- Cook Time: 70 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 190mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
