Apple Pie(No Apples)

Prep: 10 min Cook: 35 min Cuisine: American

Crispy, sweet, and uniquely savory, this cracker-stuffed pie delivers a caramelized crunch with a hint of citrus, perfect for a playful dessert or brunch surprise.

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Ingredients

  • pastry for 2-crust 9-inch pie
  • 36 Ritz crackers, broken
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 2 teaspoons cream of tartar
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Instructions

  1. Bring sugar and water to a boil.
  2. Add cream of tartar and broken Ritz crackers.
  3. Boil for 2 minutes.
  4. Remove from heat.
  5. Dot the mixture with butter.
  6. Sprinkle with cinnamon.
  7. Add lemon juice.
  8. Pour into a prepared 9‑inch pie shell.
  9. Cover with top pastry crust.
  10. Bake at 425°F for 30 to 35 minutes or until browned.

Tips & Substitutions

For an added depth of flavor, consider using crushed graham crackers instead of Ritz for the crust layer. You can also enhance the sweetness by adding a touch of vanilla extract. If you prefer a thicker consistency, reduce the water slightly or increase the cream of tartar. This recipe is a creative twist on traditional American recipes, perfect for those looking to experiment with flavors.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this unique apple pie alternative warm, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for added sweetness. It also pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea, making it a delightful dessert after a hearty meal. Consider serving alongside a light salad for a balanced finish.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the pie in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. This will help maintain the crispness of the crust while ensuring the filling is heated evenly.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Apple Pie(No Apples) contains roughly 1033 calories, with 18g protein, 127g carbohydrates, and 50g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (41% of the Daily Value) and protein (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 841mg per serving (37% of the Daily Value).

1033 kcal 52% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 17.5g 35% DV
Total Fat 50g 64% DV
Carbs 127.2g 46% DV
Fiber 4.3g 15% DV
Sugar 18.3g 37% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 841.4mg 37% DV
Potassium 857.8mg 18% DV
Cholesterol 44.2mg 15% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 20.4mcg 2% DV
Vitamin C 0.5mg 1% DV
Calcium 235.3mg 18% DV
Iron 7.4mg 41% DV
Contains Milk Wheat/Gluten

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of cracker?

Yes, you can substitute Ritz with any buttery cracker, such as Town House or Club crackers. Just keep in mind that the flavor might vary slightly, so choose one that complements the sweetness of the pie.

How can I make this pie more tart?

To add a tangy twist, increase the lemon juice to 3 tablespoons or incorporate a bit of zest from the lemon peel. This will enhance the filling's flavor and balance the sweetness effectively.

Is it possible to make this pie gluten-free?

Absolutely! You can use gluten-free crackers to replace the Ritz. There are many options available that mimic the buttery texture, allowing you to enjoy this pie without gluten.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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