As autumn ushers in its rich tapestry of colors, I find myself drawn to the kitchen—there’s something about the season that stirs a deep craving for comforting desserts. This Pumpkin-Spiced Apple Pie is my answer to that desire, combining the beloved tastes of fall into one delightful dish. With every bite, you’ll experience the flakiness of a tender vegan crust enveloping a sumptuous filling of sweet apples, kissed by the warm embrace of pumpkin spice.
The unexpected harmony between classic apple pie and a hint of pumpkin creates a symphony of flavors that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly new. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight treat or the star of a festive gathering, this pie is sure to impress your friends and family, leaving them all reaching for another slice. Best of all? It’s incredibly simple to whip up, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time creating lasting memories. So, let’s get baking and embrace the warm, inviting essence of fall with this delightful dessert!
Why will you love this Pumpkin-Spiced Apple Pie?
Simplicity at its finest: This recipe ensures even novice bakers can shine in the kitchen with minimal effort.
Flavorful Fusion: Enjoy the delightful mix of sweet apples and fragrant pumpkin spice—an unexpected yet delicious pairing!
Vegan Delight: Perfect for those avoiding animal products, this dessert allows everyone to indulge guilt-free.
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Ideal for gatherings, it’s sure to spark joy and smiles around the table.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Bake now and enjoy later; this pie is just as delicious after a day or two!
Embrace fall with this heartwarming dessert that invites you to savor every bite in good company.
Pumpkin-Spiced Apple Pie Ingredients
For the Crust
- Flour – Provides structure for the pie crust; consider mixing unbleached all-purpose with whole-wheat pastry for added nutrition.
- Sea Salt – Enhances flavor; use the specified amount to balance the sweetness.
- Pumpkin Pie Spice – Adds warm, seasonal flavor; you can make your own or substitute with cinnamon and nutmeg if needed.
- Ground Cinnamon – Contributes aromatic sweetness; feel free to adjust to your preferred taste.
- Cold Vegan Butter – Creates a flaky crust; substitute with other vegan butters or coconut oil as desired.
- Ice Water – Helps bind the crust together; add gradually until the dough forms to avoid sogginess.
For the Filling
- Sliced, Peeled Apples – Primary filling ingredient providing sweetness and texture; a mix of sweet and tart apples is recommended.
- Sugar – Sweetens the filling; try a blend of brown and white sugar for depth, adjusting based on apple sweetness.
- Pumpkin Butter – Infuses the filling with delicious pumpkin flavor; you can swap it for pumpkin puree, just add more sugar and spices.
- Unbleached All-Purpose Flour – Thicken the filling; this helps stabilize the juices during baking.
For Serving (optional)
- Coconut Whipped Cream or Vegan Ice Cream – Ideal toppings for serving; they enrich the dessert experience, making each slice even more indulgent.
With this Pumpkin-Spiced Apple Pie recipe, you’ll collect smiles and satisfaction in every bite!
How to Make Pumpkin-Spiced Apple Pie
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Prepare the Filling:
Begin by peeling and slicing the apples into bite-sized pieces. Toss them gently with sea salt, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, sugar, pumpkin butter, and unbleached flour. Set aside to let those flavors meld. -
Make the Crust:
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sea salt, pumpkin pie spice, and ground cinnamon. Cut in the cold vegan butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently until a loose dough forms. -
Assemble the Pie:
Roll out the larger piece of dough for the bottom crust and lay it in a pie pan, trimming any excess. Pour the apple filling into the crust, making sure to reserve any excess liquid. Roll out the top crust and place it on the filling, creating a lattice or simply poking holes for steam to escape. -
Bake:
Brush the top crust lightly with water or dairy-free milk and sprinkle with sugar. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (204°C) for 45-50 minutes or until the crust is golden brown. If the edges brown too quickly, cover them with foil after about 30 minutes. -
Cool & Serve:
Let the pie cool for at least 3-4 hours before slicing; this helps the filling firm up beautifully. For a delightful treat, serve it warm alongside coconut whipped cream or vegan ice cream.
Optional: Top with a sprinkle of cinnamon for added warmth.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Pumpkin-Spiced Apple Pie Variations
Get ready to inspire your inner chef by personalizing this delicious pie with creative twists and substitutions!
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Pumpkin Spice Kick: Add an extra dash of pumpkin pie spice for a more pronounced flavor journey through autumn.
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Gluten-Free Goodness: Swap in a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the crust to accommodate those with dietary restrictions.
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Nutty Infusion: Incorporate finely chopped walnuts or pecans into the apple filling for added texture and a delightful crunch.
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Fruit Medley: Mix in a handful of cranberries or pears for a vibrant burst of tartness that complements the sweetness of the apples.
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Cinnamon Swirl: Sprinkle a cinnamon-sugar mixture between layers of filling for an unexpected flavor twist that will keep everyone guessing.
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Caramel Glaze: Drizzle homemade vegan caramel sauce over the pie before serving to elevate the sweetness to decadent new heights.
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Coconut Surprise: Fold shredded coconut into the filling for a tropical twist that adds chewiness and a lovely flavor contrast.
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Spicy Heat: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or ground ginger to the filling for a surprising warmth that dances on your palate.
These variations will not only satisfy your taste buds but also invite friends and family to join in the fun of creating your pumpkin-spiced masterpiece!
How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin-Spiced Apple Pie
Room Temperature: Keep the pie covered at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. This maintains its delightful flavor and texture, perfect for casual snacking.
Fridge: For longer freshness, store the pie in the refrigerator for up to a week. Ensure it’s well-covered to prevent drying out and to keep the filling’s flavors vibrant.
Freezer: Freeze the unbaked Pumpkin-Spiced Apple Pie for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to avoid freezer burn. Bake from frozen, adding about 10 minutes to the baking time.
Reheating: To enjoy leftovers, reheat slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through, ensuring that the crust stays delightful and flaky.
Tips for the Best Pumpkin-Spiced Apple Pie
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Chill Ingredients: Ensure your vegan butter is cold before cutting it into the flour. This helps create a flaky crust by preventing the fat from melting too early.
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Mix Wisely: Avoid overmixing the dough when you add the ice water; it should just come together. Overmixing can result in a tough crust instead of the delicate texture we crave in a Pumpkin-Spiced Apple Pie.
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Apple Choice: Select a mix of sweet and tart apples for the filling. This balance enhances flavor and keeps the pie from being overly sweet.
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Thickening Tip: Don’t skip the reserved liquid from the filling! It’s essential for the perfect consistency and helps to prevent a soggy pie.
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Cooling Time: Allow your pie to cool for at least 3-4 hours before slicing. This not only helps the filling set but also makes it easier to serve.
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Serving Suggestion: For a delightful twist, serve warm with a drizzle of maple syrup or a sprinkle of nutmeg alongside your favorite coconut whipped cream.
Make Ahead Options
These delightful Pumpkin-Spiced Apple Pies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the pie filling—apples tossed with sugar, spices, and flour—up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. Additionally, the pie crust can be made and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or even frozen for up to 3 months (just thaw overnight in the fridge before using). When you’re ready to bake, assemble the pie, brush the crust, and bake as directed. This approach saves you time on busy days while ensuring that your pie will be just as delicious as when freshly made!
What to Serve with Pumpkin-Spiced Apple Pie?
Indulging in the sweet warmth of fall requires the perfect companions to elevate your dessert experience.
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Coconut Whipped Cream: This creamy topping adds a luscious, dairy-free richness that complements the spices beautifully and enhances every bite.
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Vegan Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of this delightful treat brings a cool, creamy contrast to the warm pie, making each mouthful a heavenly experience.
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Pecan Crumble Topping: Add a crunchy texture on top for a delightful contrast to the soft filling; the nuts intensify the nutty flavors of the crust.
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Spiced Chai Tea: A warm cup of spiced chai balances the sweetness with its aromatic flavors, making for a cozy pairing during chilly autumn evenings.
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Maple Syrup Drizzle: This brings an added layer of sweetness and a subtle caramel flavor that complements the pumpkin spice beautifully; drizzle it over warm slices.
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Fresh Pear Salad: A light, refreshing salad with ripe pears and mixed greens provides a crisp contrast to the rich pie, enhancing the flavor profile of your meal.
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Pumpkin Spice Latte: For coffee lovers, this pairing creates a delightful autumn experience; the spices in both dessert and latte harmonize for a festive feel.
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Cinnamon Apple Cider: Warm mulled cider with cinnamon brings a nostalgic touch of fall, solidifying its presence at your gathering as a standalone pleasure.
Pumpkin-Spiced Apple Pie Recipe FAQs
What kind of apples are best for this pie?
A delightful mix of sweet and tart apples works wonders in this pie! I recommend using Granny Smith for that tartness combined with Honeycrisp or Fuji for their sweetness. This balance enhances the overall flavor and keeps the pie from being overly sweet, giving it that perfect fall vibe.
How do I store leftovers of Pumpkin-Spiced Apple Pie?
Store your pie covered at room temperature for 2-3 days to keep it fresh and tasty. For longer freshness, wrap it tightly and place it in the refrigerator, where it will remain good for about a week. Just remember to cover it well to prevent it from drying out!
Can I freeze Pumpkin-Spiced Apple Pie?
Absolutely! You can freeze an unbaked Pumpkin-Spiced Apple Pie for up to 3 months. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to avoid freezer burn. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove it from the freezer and pop it straight into the oven, adding about 10 extra minutes to the baking time for best results.
What should I do if my pie filling is too runny?
If you find your pie filling turning out too runny, it may be due to excess moisture from the apples. To prevent this, toss your sliced apples with a tablespoon or two of unbleached flour before assembling your pie—this acts as a thickening agent. Also, remember to reserve any excess liquid from the filling, as it can lead to a beautifully set filling.
Can I use gluten-free flour for the crust?
Yes! You can definitely substitute unbleached all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for the crust. I often recommend starting with a mix designed for baking, as it typically includes xanthan gum, which helps mimic the elasticity of regular flour. Just ensure you follow the blend’s specific measurements for best results.
Is this pie suitable for pets?
While this Pumpkin-Spiced Apple Pie is delightful for humans, it’s best not to share with pets. Ingredients like sugar and spices may not be suitable for them, and they could lead to digestive upset. Keep it for your enjoyment, and perhaps treat your furry friends to some plain apple slices instead!
Pumpkin-Spiced Apple Pie: Your New Fall Favorite Dessert
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Filling: Peel and slice the apples into bite-sized pieces. Toss them with sea salt, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, sugar, pumpkin butter, and unbleached flour.
- Make the Crust: Whisk together flour, sea salt, pumpkin pie spice, and ground cinnamon. Cut in cold vegan butter until coarse crumbs form, adding ice water gradually.
- Assemble the Pie: Roll out the bottom crust, pour apple filling in, and cover with the top crust, creating a lattice or poking holes.
- Bake: Brush the top crust with water or dairy-free milk, sprinkle sugar and bake at 400°F (204°C) for 45-50 minutes until golden.
- Cool & Serve: Let pie cool for 3-4 hours before slicing. Serve warm with toppings.