The smell of warm apples and cinnamon wafting through our kitchen is one of my favorite things in the world. It instantly transports me back to childhood, to my grandmother’s kitchen, where a fresh apple pie was always cooling on the counter. As a mom of three, I believe food is love, and sharing those cherished flavors with my own kids is incredibly important to me.
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gluten free apple pie
- Total Time: 1H 50 mins
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This incredible gluten free apple pie recipe offers a classic, cozy taste experience with a buttery, flaky crust and sweet, tangy apple filling.
Ingredients
2 ½ cups Gluten-Free All-Purpose Flour Blend
1 tsp Xanthan Gum (if not in blend)
1 tbsp Granulated Sugar
1 tsp Salt
1 cup Unsalted Butter, cold and cubed
½ – ¾ cup Ice Water
6–7 medium Apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, Fuji)
½ cup Granulated Sugar
¼ cup Light Brown Sugar, packed
3 tbsp All-Purpose Gluten-Free Flour
1 tsp Ground Cinnamo
¼ tsp Ground Nutmeg
1 tbsp Lemon Juice
2 tbsp Unsalted Butter, cut into small pieces
1 Egg Wash (1 egg + 1 tbsp water)
Coarse Sugar, optional
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour blend, xanthan gum (if using), sugar, and salt
- Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry blender or your fingertips, cut the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs with some pea-sized pieces remaining. This is crucial for a flaky gluten free apple pie crust
- Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overmix; too much handling develops the gluten (even in GF flour) and can make the crust tough
- Divide the dough in half, flatten each half into a disc, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 days. This chilling time is essential for a workable gluten free apple pie crust
- Peel, core, and slice your apples into ¼-inch thick pieces. Place them in a large bowl
- Add the granulated sugar, brown sugar, gluten-free flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice to the apples. Toss everything gently until the apples are evenly coated
- Set the filling aside while you roll out the first pie crust
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C)
- On a lightly floured surface (use gluten-free flour), roll out one disc of dough into a 12-inch circle. Carefully transfer the dough to a 9-inch pie plate. Trim the edges, leaving about a ½-inch overhang
- Pour the apple filling into the pie crust, mounding it slightly in the center. Dot the top of the filling with the small pieces of butter
- Roll out the second disc of dough. You can either place it directly over the filling, cut it into strips for a lattice top, or use cookie cutters to create decorative shapes
- If using a full top crust, trim the edges, leaving a ½-inch overhang. Pinch the top and bottom crusts together to seal, then crimp the edges decoratively. Cut several slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking
- Brush the top crust with the egg wash and sprinkle with coarse sugar, if desired. This creates a beautiful, golden finish for your gluten free apple pie
- Place the pie on a baking sheet (to catch any potential drips) and bake for 15 minutes at 425°F (220°C)
- 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 thickly. If the crust starts to brown too quickly, loosely cover the edges with aluminum foil
- Remove the gluten free apple pie from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack for at least 2-3 hours before slicing. This allows the filling to set properly, preventing a runny pie. Enjoy your glorious gluten free apple pie!
Notes
Always keep your ingredients cold for the crust (very cold butter and ice water) for a flaky texture. You can even chill your flour beforehand if your kitchen is warm.
Avoid overworking the dough; mix just until combined to prevent a tough crust. Chilling the dough is non-negotiable for a successful gluten-free pie crust.
Use a variety of apples (tart like Granny Smith and sweet like Honeycrisp or Fuji) for a balanced flavor and better texture.
Don’t skip the lemon juice in the filling; it brightens the apple flavor and helps prevent browning.
Let the pie cool completely for at least 2-3 hours before slicing to allow the filling to set properly and prevent a runny pie.
For a dairy-free option, substitute butter with a high-quality vegan butter alternative suitable for baking.
To prevent a soggy bottom, ensure your oven is fully preheated and consider placing the pie on a preheated baking sheet or pizza stone. Properly thicken your apple filling.
You can prepare dough discs up to 2 days in advance or assemble the entire pie (unbaked) and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
- Prep Time: 45 mins
- Cook Time: 65 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Sugar: 32.5 g
- Sodium: 225 mg
- Fat: 22.5 g
- Saturated Fat: 13.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: …
- Trans Fat: …
- Carbohydrates: 52.5 g
- Fiber: 3.5 g
- Protein: 3.5 g
- Cholesterol: 55 mg
Keywords: gluten-free apple pie, apple pie, gluten-free dessert, baking, fruit pie, dessert
For years, though, after my youngest developed a gluten sensitivity, I thought those pie-filled memories might become just that memories. Store-bought gluten-free options often left us disappointed, lacking that perfect flaky crust and rich, comforting filling. That’s why I poured my heart into perfecting this truly incredible gluten free apple pie recipe.
This isn’t just any pie; it’s a labor of love, a delicious triumph that brings that classic, cozy feeling back to our table, now completely gluten-free. Trust me, even your pickiest eaters won’t guess this glorious gluten free apple pie is different from the traditional version. It’s become a new family tradition, a testament that nourishing, simple food can also be utterly delicious and inclusive.
WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS RECIPE
You are going to absolutely adore this gluten free apple pie. First and foremost, it delivers on flavor. Every bite offers that quintessential apple pie experience: sweet, tangy apples perfectly spiced, nestled beneath a buttery, flaky crust.
No gritty textures or bland flavors here! As a mom, I prioritize recipes that truly nourish, and this one uses wholesome ingredients without sacrificing taste. Furthermore, it’s incredibly satisfying to bake something from scratch that everyone can enjoy, especially when dietary restrictions are involved.
This recipe for gluten free apple pie uses a simple, reliable gluten-free crust that bakes up beautifully, making it approachable for even novice bakers. You’ll feel a real sense of accomplishment presenting this gorgeous gluten free apple pie to your family and friends. It’s perfect for holidays, Sunday dinners, or just because you crave a comforting slice of homemade goodness. This easy gluten free apple pie recipe proves that delicious doesn’t have to mean complicated or exclusive.
WHAT YOU’LL NEED (INGREDIENTS)
Gathering your ingredients is the first step towards creating this delightful gluten free apple pie. Quality components truly make all the difference here, especially when you’re aiming for that perfect texture and flavor in a gluten-free dish. Don’t skimp on good quality butter for the crust; it provides richness and helps with flakiness.
For the apples, a mix of sweet and tart varieties creates the most complex and delicious filling. Below you’ll find everything you need for both the crust and the scrumptious apple filling for your homemade gluten free apple pie.
For the Gluten-Free Pie Crust:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Gluten-Free All-Purpose Flour Blend* | 2 ½ cups (300g) |
| Xanthan Gum (if not in blend) | 1 tsp |
| Granulated Sugar | 1 tbsp |
| Salt | 1 tsp |
| Unsalted Butter, cold and cubed | 1 cup (226g) |
| Ice Water | ½ – ¾ cup |
*Ensure your GF flour blend contains rice flour, tapioca starch, and potato starch for best results.
For the Apple Pie Filling:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, Fuji) | 6-7 medium (about 6 cups sliced) |
| Granulated Sugar | ½ cup |
| Light Brown Sugar, packed | ¼ cup |
| All-Purpose Gluten-Free Flour | 3 tbsp |
| Ground Cinnamon | 1 tsp |
| Ground Nutmeg | ¼ tsp |
| Lemon Juice | 1 tbsp |
| Unsalted Butter, cut into small pieces | 2 tbsp |
| Egg Wash (1 egg + 1 tbsp water) | For brushing |
| Coarse Sugar (optional, for sprinkling) | For sprinkling |
SUBSTITUTIONS & VARIATIONS
One of the best parts about cooking is adapting recipes to fit your family’s needs and preferences. This gluten free apple pie is wonderfully versatile, allowing for a few easy tweaks without compromising on deliciousness. If you’re looking for a completely dairy-free option, swap the butter in the crust for a good quality vegan butter alternative.
Just ensure it’s specifically formulated for baking. For the filling, you can certainly experiment with different apple varieties. Braeburn or Pink Lady apples also work beautifully, offering a great balance of sweetness and tartness.
Feel free to adjust the spice level too; a pinch of ground cloves or allspice can add an extra layer of warmth to your gluten free apple pie.
If you prefer a less sweet pie, reduce the sugar in the filling by a tablespoon or two, especially if your apples are naturally very sweet. For a fun twist, try adding a handful of fresh cranberries to the apple filling for a pop of color and tartness, making your gluten free apple pie even more festive.
You can even drizzle a bit of caramel sauce over the top before serving for an extra decadent treat. Don’t be afraid to make this gluten free apple pie your own!
Exploring ingredient substitutions ensures everyone can enjoy your baking, from vegan butter alternatives to understanding different flours for dietary needs. This adaptability is also crucial when considering other pantry staples, like confirming if Ezekiel bread is gluten-free for a truly inclusive diet.
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS
Making this incredible gluten free apple pie is a truly rewarding process. Follow these detailed steps carefully, and you’ll achieve a perfect, golden-brown pie that tastes as amazing as it looks. Remember, patience is key, especially with gluten-free pastry.
Don’t rush the chilling steps! This ensures your gluten-free crust will be wonderfully flaky and easy to handle.
1. Prepare the Gluten-Free Pie Crust:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour blend, xanthan gum (if using), sugar, and salt.
- Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry blender or your fingertips, cut the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs with some pea-sized pieces remaining. This is crucial for a flaky gluten free apple pie crust.
- Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overmix; too much handling develops the gluten (even in GF flour) and can make the crust tough.
- Divide the dough in half, flatten each half into a disc, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 days. This chilling time is essential for a workable gluten free apple pie crust.
2. Make the Apple Pie Filling:
- Peel, core, and slice your apples into ¼-inch thick pieces. Place them in a large bowl.
- Add the granulated sugar, brown sugar, gluten-free flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice to the apples. Toss everything gently until the apples are evenly coated.
- Set the filling aside while you roll out the first pie crust.
3. Assemble the Gluten-Free Apple Pie:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- On a lightly floured surface (use gluten-free flour), roll out one disc of dough into a 12-inch circle. Carefully transfer the dough to a 9-inch pie plate. Trim the edges, leaving about a ½-inch overhang.
- Pour the apple filling into the pie crust, mounding it slightly in the center. Dot the top of the filling with the small pieces of butter.
- Roll out the second disc of dough. You can either place it directly over the filling, cut it into strips for a lattice top, or use cookie cutters to create decorative shapes.
- If using a full top crust, trim the edges, leaving a ½-inch overhang. Pinch the top and bottom crusts together to seal, then crimp the edges decoratively. Cut several slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking.
- Brush the top crust with the egg wash and sprinkle with coarse sugar, if desired. This creates a beautiful, golden finish for your gluten free apple pie.
4. Bake the Gluten-Free Apple Pie:
- Place the pie on a baking sheet (to catch any potential drips) and bake for 15 minutes at 425°F (220°C).
- 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 thickly. If the crust starts to brown too quickly, loosely cover the edges with aluminum foil.
- Remove the gluten free apple pie from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack for at least 2-3 hours before slicing. This allows the filling to set properly, preventing a runny pie. Enjoy your glorious gluten free apple pie!
PRO TIPS FOR SUCCESS
Achieving a truly spectacular gluten free apple pie involves a few key techniques. These tips will help you create a pie that’s not only delicious but also structurally sound and beautiful. First, always keep your ingredients cold for the crust.
This means very cold butter and ice water. Cold fat creates pockets of steam during baking, leading to that coveted flaky texture. If your kitchen is warm, you can even chill your flour beforehand!
Furthermore, avoid overworking the dough. Gluten-free doughs, while lacking traditional gluten, can still become tough if handled too much. Mix just until combined, and then chill.
This chilling time is non-negotiable for a successful gluten free apple pie. When it comes to the filling, use a variety of apples. A mix of tart (like Granny Smith) and sweet (like Honeycrisp or Fuji) creates a balanced flavor profile and better texture.
Also, don’t skip the lemon juice; it brightens the apple flavor and helps prevent browning. Finally, ensure you let your gluten free apple pie cool completely before slicing. This is perhaps the hardest tip to follow, but it’s vital.
The filling needs time to set and firm up. Slicing too early will result in a runny, messy pie. Patience makes perfect when baking this delightful gluten free apple pie!
Mastering techniques like keeping ingredients cold for a flaky crust is essential for achieving perfect gluten-free baked goods. This attention to detail extends to all your dessert endeavors, ensuring delicious results even with convenient options like a quality Gluten Free Brownie Mix.
STORAGE & REHEATING TIPS
You’ve baked a magnificent gluten free apple pie, and now you want to enjoy every last slice. Proper storage ensures it stays fresh and delicious. For the first day, if your kitchen isn’t too warm, you can store your cooled gluten free apple pie loosely covered at room temperature.
After that, or if you live in a warmer climate, it’s best to refrigerate any leftovers. Simply cover the pie with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze individual slices or the entire pie.
Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. A whole pie should be wrapped in several layers of plastic wrap and then foil. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months.
When reheating, individual slices can be warmed in the microwave for 30-60 seconds, or in a toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and the crust crisps up. A whole frozen pie can be reheated (uncovered) in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 30-45 minutes, or until warmed through. This brings back that wonderful fresh-baked aroma and taste of homemade gluten free apple pie.
WHAT TO SERVE WITH THIS RECIPE
A warm slice of gluten free apple pie is a complete joy on its own, but pairing it with the right accompaniment elevates the experience to pure bliss. For a classic combination, a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream is practically mandatory. The cold creaminess melts perfectly into the warm apple filling, creating a delightful contrast.
If you’re catering to dairy-free guests, a good quality dairy-free vanilla ice cream or a dollop of coconut whipped cream works just as beautifully. For something a little richer, a drizzle of homemade or store-bought caramel sauce is an irresistible addition. The sweet, buttery notes of caramel complement the apples and spices in this amazing gluten free apple pie.
Another traditional pairing, especially popular in the Midwest, is a slice of sharp cheddar cheese. It sounds unconventional, but the savory tang of the cheese incredibly balances the sweetness of the apple pie, creating a uniquely satisfying bite.
On a chilly evening, a warm mug of coffee or a comforting cup of herbal tea also makes for a lovely accompaniment to your delicious gluten free apple pie. No matter how you serve it, this gluten free apple pie promises to be a heartwarming treat.
While a warm slice of apple pie is delightful, pairing it with creamy accompaniments like ice cream or whipped cream truly elevates the dessert experience. If you’re looking to expand your holiday dessert repertoire with equally delicious and inclusive options, consider trying the best vegan and gluten-free pumpkin pie.
TROUBLESHOOTING — COMMON QUESTIONS
Why is my gluten-free pie crust crumbly?
A crumbly gluten-free pie crust usually indicates too little liquid. Gluten-free flours absorb liquids differently than wheat flour, sometimes needing a bit more. Add ice water one tablespoon at a time, mixing just until the dough comes together.
Conversely, overworking the dough can also make it crumbly and tough. Handle it as little as possible to maintain tenderness.
How do I prevent a soggy bottom?
Preventing a soggy bottom in any pie, especially a gluten free apple pie, is crucial. Ensure your oven is fully preheated, and consider placing the pie on a preheated baking sheet or pizza stone. This helps cook the bottom crust quickly.
Also, properly thickening your apple filling with flour or cornstarch is key. Finally, letting the pie cool completely allows the filling to set and prevents it from seeping into the crust, preserving the integrity of your wonderful gluten free apple pie.
Can I make this gluten free apple pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pie dough discs up to 2 days in advance and store them wrapped in the refrigerator. You can also assemble the entire gluten free apple pie (without baking) and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours.
If baking from cold, you might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time. This flexibility makes baking this delicious gluten free apple pie much easier for busy schedules.
What kind of apples are best for gluten free apple pie?
For the best gluten free apple pie, use a mix of firm, crisp apples that hold their shape during baking. Granny Smith apples are a classic choice for their tartness and firm texture. Honeycrisp, Fuji, Braeburn, and Pink Lady are also excellent choices, offering a good balance of sweetness and firmness. Avoid overly soft or mealy apples, as they will turn to mush in the filling.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can easily make this gluten free apple pie dairy-free. Simply substitute the unsalted butter in both the crust and the filling with a high-quality, solid dairy-free butter alternative that’s suitable for baking. Many brands now offer excellent vegan butter sticks that perform very similarly to dairy butter in pie crusts, ensuring your gluten free apple pie remains flaky and delicious.
NUTRITION INFORMATION (PER SERVING)
This nutrition information for gluten free apple pie is an estimate based on approximately 12 servings per pie. Actual values may vary depending on specific brands of ingredients used and exact portion sizes. This classic gluten free apple pie offers a delightful balance of energy and flavor.
| Nutrient | Amount (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 380-420 kcal |
| Total Fat | 20-25 g |
| Saturated Fat | 12-15 g |
| Cholesterol | 50-60 mg |
| Sodium | 200-250 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 50-55 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3-4 g |
| Total Sugars | 30-35 g |
| Protein | 3-4 g |
Understanding the nutritional profile of your baked goods helps in making informed dietary choices for your family. For another delightful gluten-free treat that’s both tender and delicious, perfect for breakfast or a snack, don’t miss our recipe for easy gluten-free almond scones.
Gluten-free apple pie represents a modern adaptation of a classic dessert, catering to individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities. This involves substituting traditional wheat flour with alternative flours like rice, almond, or tapioca in the crust. The principles of gluten-free baking ensure that texture and flavor are maintained, allowing everyone to enjoy beloved pies without dietary compromise.