Apple Vanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free) Pie

Apple Vanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free) Pie is a delightful dessert that combines the sweetness of apples with a rich, crumbly topping. This pie is perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to holiday celebrations. What sets it apart is the unique flavor of apple vanilla extract, which enhances the taste and aroma of this classic dish. Serve it warm with a scoop of ice cream for an irresistible treat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of apples and vanilla creates a mouthwatering taste that everyone will love.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this pie is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Versatile Dessert: Ideal for holidays, potlucks, or just a cozy night in, this pie fits any occasion.
• Oatmeal Topping: The oatmeal topping adds a delightful texture and nutty flavor that complements the soft apples.
• Great Leftovers: This pie tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Apple Vanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free) Pie, you’ll need a few essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9 deep dish pie pan
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking foil
• Oven mitts

Importance of Each Tool

• 9 deep dish pie pan: This pan provides enough depth for your delicious filling and crumbly topping without spilling over.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple sizes helps in easily combining different ingredients without mess.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the best flavor and texture in your pie.

Ingredients

For the Pie Base

• 1 pie pastry

For the Apple Filling

• 1/4 c. sugar
• 3 Tbsp flour
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/8 tsp salt
• 5 1/2 c. peeled and thinly sliced apples

For the Oatmeal Topping

• 1/2 c. brown sugar
• 1/2 c. flour
• 1/2 c. quick oats
• 1/2 c. butter

For Serving

• 1/3 c. caramel ice cream sauce

How to Make Apple Vanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free) Pie

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures that your pie bakes evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Pie Crust

Place your pie pastry into a 9 deep dish pie pan, making sure it fits snugly against the sides.

Step 3: Mix the Apple Filling

In a large bowl:
1. Combine the sugar, flour, cinnamon, and salt.
2. Toss in the sliced apples until they are well coated in the mixture.
3. Pour this apple mixture into the prepared pie crust.

Step 4: Make the Oatmeal Topping

In another bowl:
1. Mix together brown sugar, flour, quick oats, and softened butter until crumbly.
2. Evenly sprinkle this topping over the apple filling.

Step 5: Bake Your Pie

Bake in the preheated oven for about 20–30 minutes.
After this time:
1. Cover with foil to prevent over-browning.
2. Bake for an additional 20 minutes or until apples are tender.

Step 6: Add Caramel Sauce

Once baked, remove from oven and drizzle with caramel ice cream sauce while warm.

Allow your Apple Vanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free) Pie to cool slightly before serving with ice cream for an extra treat! Enjoy!

How to Serve Apple Vanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free) Pie

Serving your homemade Apple Vanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free) Pie can elevate the overall experience. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy this delicious dessert.

A La Mode

• Vanilla Ice Cream – Top your pie slice with a scoop of classic vanilla ice cream for a creamy contrast.
• Caramel Drizzle – Add an extra drizzle of caramel sauce over the ice cream for a sweet, gooey finish.

With Whipped Cream

• Fresh Whipped Cream – Serve with a dollop of freshly whipped cream to enhance the pie’s flavors.
• Cinnamon Sugar Dusting – Sprinkle a little cinnamon sugar on the whipped cream for added warmth and spice.

Fruit Pairings

• Sliced Fresh Apples – Offer some fresh apple slices on the side to complement the cooked apples in the pie.
• Berries – A side of mixed berries adds a tartness that balances the sweetness of the pie.

How to Perfect Apple Vanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free) Pie

Perfecting your Apple Vanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free) Pie is all about technique and ingredients. Here are some tips to make sure it turns out just right.

• Use Firm Apples – Choose apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for texture and flavor.
• Don’t Overmix Filling – Gently toss the apples with sugar and spices to avoid breaking them down too much.
• Chill Your Dough – Keep your pie pastry chilled before baking for a flaky crust.
• Cover When Necessary – If the crust browns too quickly, cover it loosely with foil to prevent burning while baking.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Vanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free) Pie

Pairing your Apple Vanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free) Pie with complementary side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some great options.

1. Cheese Platter – A selection of sharp cheddar or creamy brie pairs wonderfully with sweet apple pie.
2. Salad Greens – A light salad with vinaigrette can balance the richness of the pie.
3. Nut Mix – Serve a bowl of roasted nuts for a crunchy contrast alongside each slice.
4. Hot Coffee – A warm cup of coffee enhances the flavors and makes for a cozy pairing.
5. Chocolate Sauce – Drizzling chocolate sauce over each serving adds an indulgent twist.
6. Fruit Compote – A warm fruit compote can add another layer of flavor while keeping things seasonal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making an Apple Vanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free) Pie can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Incorrect Apple Variety: Using the wrong type of apples can lead to a pie that is too mushy or not flavorful. Opt for firm varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp.
• Overmixing the Topping: If you overmix the oatmeal topping, it can become too dense. Mix just until combined for a crumbly texture.
• Not Prepping the Apples: Failing to peel and slice the apples thinly can result in uneven cooking. Make sure to prepare them properly for the best results.
• Skipping the Cooling Time: Cutting into the pie while it’s still hot can make it fall apart. Allow it to cool completely before slicing for clean cuts.
• Ignoring Baking Times: Every oven behaves differently. Keep an eye on your pie and adjust baking times as needed to ensure perfectly tender apples.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover pie in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Cover the pie with plastic wrap if storing it in its original dish.

Freezing Apple Vanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free) Pie

• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
• The pie can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Apple Vanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free) Pie

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on a microwave-safe plate for 30 seconds to 1 minute, checking often.
• Stovetop: Place a slice in a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making an Apple Vanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free) Pie.

Can I use other fruits in this pie?

Yes! You can mix different fruits like pears or berries with apples for a unique flavor twist.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend and ensure your oats are certified gluten-free.

What is the best way to serve this pie?

Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream on top for extra indulgence!

Can I use homemade vanilla extract?

Absolutely! Homemade vanilla extract will add a lovely depth of flavor to your pie.

How long does this pie last?

When stored correctly, this pie lasts about 4 days in the refrigerator or up to 3 months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

The Apple Vanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free) Pie is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding different spices or even swapping out some of the apples for other fruits. It’s perfect for gatherings or a cozy night at home. Give it a try!