Delicious Apple Cheddar Pie: A Comforting Delight

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Apple Cheddar Pie is a delightful dessert that combines the sweetness of spiced apples with the savory richness of cheddar cheese, creating a warm and inviting dish. This cozy, golden pie is not only delicious but also offers a unique twist on traditional desserts, making it perfect for any occasion. The buttery cheddar crust complements the tender apples beautifully, resulting in a comforting treat that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Apple Cheddar Pie

There are countless reasons to adore this Apple Cheddar Pie. First, the combination of sweet and savory flavors creates a mouthwatering experience. You can enjoy it as a comforting dessert or even as a unique brunch item. Its rich cheddar crust adds a delightful twist, making it stand out from typical sweet pies. Moreover, the pie is easy to make, perfect for bakers of all skill levels, and can be prepared ahead of time. The recipe is also versatile, allowing for various Apple Cheddar Pie variations. Lastly, this pie is a great way to use fresh apples, especially during the fall harvest.

Ingredients for Apple Cheddar Pie

Gather these items:

2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled for accuracy)
2 1/4 teaspoons granulated sugar (for lightly sweetening the dough)
1 1/4 teaspoons salt (fine sea salt preferred)
1 1/4 cups unsalted butter (very cold and cut into cubes)
2/3 cup ice water (measured after chilling with ice)
1 1/4 cups sharp cheddar cheese (freshly grated for best melting)
1 large egg (for brushing the crust)
1 tablespoon milk (to mix with the egg wash)
2 teaspoons coarse sugar (for sprinkling on top optional)
10 large apples (peeled, cored and sliced about 1/4-inch thick)
2/3 cup granulated sugar (for sweetening the filling)
1/3 cup all-purpose flour (to thicken the juices)
1 3/4 teaspoons ground cinnamon (for warm spice flavor)
1/3 teaspoon ground allspice (for subtle depth)
1/3 teaspoon ground cloves (for aroma)
1/3 teaspoon ground nutmeg (for warmth)
1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese (freshly grated to mix into filling)

How to Make Apple Cheddar Pie Step-by-Step

Step 1: Combine the flour, sugar, and salt in a large bowl, then scatter the cold butter cubes over the top and cut them in until the mixture looks crumbly with some pea-sized pieces.
Step 2: Slowly drizzle in the icy water a little at a time, stirring gently after each addition, just until the dough starts clumping together and feels slightly tacky.
Step 3: Gently fold in the shredded cheddar, then turn the dough onto a floured surface and lightly work it into a cohesive mass without overmixing.
Step 4: Shape the dough into a ball, divide it in half, flatten each into a thick disc, wrap tightly, and refrigerate for at least two hours.
Step 5: In a large bowl, toss the sliced apples with sugar, flour, spices, and the remaining cheddar until everything is evenly coated, then set aside.
Step 6: On a floured surface, roll one chilled dough disc into a wide circle and carefully fit it into the pie dish, smoothing it gently into the corners.
Step 7: Spoon the apple mixture evenly into the prepared crust, spreading it out so the filling sits level.
Step 8: Roll out the second dough disc and place it over the filling, either as a full top crust or a decorative design, then seal and shape the edges as desired.
Step 9: Brush the crust with the egg and milk mixture and sprinkle with coarse sugar if using, then place the pie in the refrigerator while the oven heats.
Step 10: Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C), set the pie on a baking sheet, and bake for 25 minutes until the crust begins to set.
Step 11: Reduce the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and continue baking for another 35–40 minutes, shielding the edges if they darken too quickly.
Step 12: Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool at room temperature for at least three hours so the filling can properly set before slicing.

Pro Tips for the Best Apple Cheddar Pie

Keep these in mind:

Use cold butter for a flaky crust.
Let the pie rest before slicing to allow the filling to set.
Experiment with different apple varieties for a unique flavor profile.
Consider adding a sprinkle of nutmeg on top for extra warmth.

Best Ways to Serve Apple Cheddar Pie

This delightful pie can be served warm or at room temperature. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a truly indulgent dessert experience. For a twist, drizzle a bit of caramel sauce over each slice, enhancing the sweet and savory notes of the pie. This Cheddar Apple Dessert is perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dinner!

How to Store and Reheat Apple Cheddar Pie

After preparing your Apple Cheddar Pie, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, simply place individual slices in the microwave for about 30 seconds or warm the entire pie in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it a great option for meal prep or leftovers.

Frequently Asked Questions About Apple Cheddar Pie

What’s the secret to perfect Apple Cheddar Pie?

The secret lies in using a mix of sweet and tart apples along with freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese. This combination creates a delightful balance of flavors, enhancing the overall taste of the pie.

Can I make Apple Cheddar Pie ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the pie a day in advance. Just bake it and store it in the refrigerator, covered. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor experience.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Apple Cheddar Pie?

Ensure your butter is very cold when making the crust for a flaky texture. Also, avoid overmixing the dough, as this can lead to a tough crust. Finally, let the pie cool completely for the filling to set properly.

Variations of Apple Cheddar Pie You Can Try

Get creative with these variations:

Try adding cranberries for a tart twist.
Incorporate nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
Swap out some cheddar for brie or gouda for a different flavor profile.
Make a Cheddar and Apple Pastry by using puff pastry instead of traditional pie crust.

Delicious Apple Cheddar Pie fresh from the oven

For more delicious recipes, check out Baked Garlic Chicken Meatloaf or Irresistible Thai Red Curry Kabobs. You can also explore Creamy Sausage Potato Chowder for a comforting meal.