Apple Vanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free) Pie

Amazing homemade pie recipe with an oatmeal Apple Vanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free) topping and caramel sauce. This delightful dessert is perfect for family gatherings, holidays, or just a cozy night in. The combination of sweet apples with the aromatic vanilla creates a flavor that you will cherish. Plus, it’s topped with a crunchy oat crumble and drizzled with caramel sauce, making it truly irresistible!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make – With only 10 minutes of prep time, this pie comes together quickly, allowing you to spend more time enjoying it.
• Delicious Flavor – The blend of fresh apples and the warm notes of cinnamon paired with Apple Vanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free) creates a mouthwatering experience.
• Versatile Serving Options – Serve it warm with a scoop of ice cream or chilled for a refreshing treat; it’s delicious either way!
• Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether it’s a holiday feast or a casual dessert, this pie is sure to impress your guests.
• Healthier Twist – Using Apple Vanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free) means you can enjoy the comforting taste without the extra alcohol.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Apple Vanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free) Pie, gather these essential tools. Having the right equipment ensures that your baking goes smoothly and efficiently.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Pie pan
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Pie pan: A deep dish pie pan helps contain all the delicious filling while providing even baking.
• Mixing bowls: Allows you to combine ingredients effectively without any mess.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Precise measurements are crucial for achieving the perfect flavor balance in your pie.

Ingredients

For the Pie Filling

• 1 pie pastry
• 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 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 to ensure that your pie bakes evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Pie Crust

Place your pastry in a 9 deep dish pie pan, pressing it gently against the sides.

Step 3: Mix the Filling

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

Step 4: Make the Oat Topping

In another bowl:
1. Mix together brown sugar, flour, quick oats, and softened butter.
2. Combine thoroughly until crumbly.
3. Sprinkle this oat topping evenly over the apple mixture.

Step 5: Bake the Pie

Bake in the preheated oven for 20–30 minutes:
1. After this time, cover with foil to prevent over-browning.
2. Continue baking for another 20 minutes or until apples are tender when pierced with a fork.

Step 6: Drizzle and Serve

Remove from oven:
1. Drizzle with caramel ice cream sauce before serving.
2. Allow cooling slightly before slicing.
3. Serve warm or at room temperature with a scoop of your favorite ice cream!

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

Serving your Apple Vanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free) Pie can enhance the overall experience. Here are some delightful ways to present this delicious dessert that will impress your guests.

Classic with Ice Cream

• Serve warm slices of pie topped with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic and comforting combination.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• Enhance the flavor by drizzling extra caramel sauce over each slice, adding a rich sweetness that complements the apples.

Whipped Cream Topping

• Add a dollop of freshly whipped cream on top for a light and airy finish that balances the pie’s richness.

Cinnamon Sugar Sprinkle

• Dust the pie with a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar for an added touch of flavor and a beautiful presentation.

Pairing with Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy slices of pie alongside a hot cup of coffee or tea. The warmth of the beverages pairs well with the sweet and spiced flavors of the pie.

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

To achieve the best results with your Apple Vanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free) Pie, consider these helpful tips for a flawless dessert.

• Choose the Right Apples: Use a mix of tart and sweet apples, like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp, for balanced flavor.

• Slice Uniformly: Ensure apple slices are thin and even so they cook uniformly for tenderness in every bite.

• Avoid Soggy Crust: Pre-bake the crust briefly before adding the filling to prevent it from becoming soggy during baking.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spices and ingredients yield better flavors. Avoid old spices that may have lost potency.

• Cool Before Serving: Allow the pie to cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing to help it hold its shape.

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

Pairing side dishes with your Apple Vanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free) Pie can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that adds creaminess and balance to the sweet pie.
2. Caramel Sauce: Drizzle over slices for an extra layer of sweetness that complements the apple filling.
3. Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, this topping enhances the texture without overpowering the flavors.
4. Cheese Plate: A selection of mild cheeses can provide a savory contrast to the sweetness of the pie.
5. Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad can bring brightness and acidity, balancing out the richness of the dessert.
6. Coffee or Tea: Serve alongside a warm beverage for a cozy ending to any meal, enhancing enjoyment with each bite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Apple Vanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free) Pie, it’s easy to run into some common pitfalls. Here are a few mistakes to watch for:

• Not Prepping Apples Properly: Failing to peel and slice apples thinly can lead to uneven cooking. Ensure your apples are peeled and sliced uniformly for the best texture.

• Overmixing Topping Ingredients: Overmixing can make the topping tough. Mix just until combined for a crumbly, delicious topping.

• Ignoring Baking Times: Not keeping an eye on the baking time can result in undercooked or burnt pie. Set a timer and check regularly during baking.

• Using Cold Butter in Topping: Cold butter may not blend well, affecting the topping’s texture. Use softened butter for easier mixing and better results.

• Skipping Cooling Time: Cutting into the pie while it’s hot can cause it to fall apart. Let it cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover pie in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Apple Vanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free) Pie

• Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Apple Vanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free) Pie

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 30-60 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use other types of apples?

Yes, feel free to mix different apple varieties for added flavor. Tart apples like Granny Smith work well alongside sweeter ones.

How do I know when the pie is done?

The pie is ready when the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown. A good test is inserting a fork into the apples; they should pierce easily.

What can I serve with this pie?

This pie pairs wonderfully with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. The combination adds a creamy contrast to the warm pie.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and topping separately, then assemble and bake on the day you plan to serve it.

Final Thoughts

Apple Vanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free) Pie is a delightful dessert that combines comforting flavors with a cozy atmosphere. Its versatility allows you to customize it with different toppings or ice cream flavors. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a slice of warmth today!