Blue Ribbon Apple Pie
A classic apple pie with a sweet, nutty flavor, featuring tart diced apples and optional chopped pecans. Baked to golden perfection, it offers a comforting dessert suitable for family gatherings or special occasions. Serve warm with whipped cream or ice cream for an indulgent treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sift together the sugar, flour, soda, and salt.
- Beat in the egg, then add the chopped pecans (if using), diced apples, and vanilla.
- Spread the mixture evenly in a buttered 8-inch pie pan.
- Bake at 350°F for 35 minutes until golden brown.
- Serve warm with whipped cream or ice cream.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brown sugar instead of white sugar. If you want a gluten-free version, substitute the plain flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to use tart apples like Granny Smith for the best flavor. Chopped nuts can be omitted if allergies are a concern or if you're looking for a simpler pie. Remember to sift the dry ingredients well to avoid clumps.
Serving Suggestions
Serve slices of the Blue Ribbon Apple Pie warm with a generous dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast. It pairs beautifully with *Coconut Caramel Pie* for a dessert spread. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a light salad like Orange Cottage Cheese Salad to balance the sweetness.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover pie in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, place individual slices in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds or in an oven preheated to 350°F for about 10 minutes, until warmed through. Serve warm for the best taste.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Blue Ribbon Apple Pie contains roughly 244 calories, with 5g protein, 48g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is a good source of iron (11% of the Daily Value) and protein (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 942mg per serving (41% of the Daily Value).
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 other types of apples for this pie?
Yes, you can use various apple types, but tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best for a balanced flavor. Sweet apples like Fuji or Gala can also be used, but consider reducing the sugar slightly to avoid overly sweet pie.
Is it necessary to add pecans?
No, the pecans are optional. They add a nice crunch and flavor, but the pie is delicious without them. If you prefer a nut-free version, simply omit them and enjoy the pure apple flavor.
How can I make this pie more visually appealing?
To enhance the presentation, consider lattice-style crust toppings using additional pie dough. You can also dust the top with powdered sugar or serve with a drizzle of caramel sauce for an elegant touch.
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).