Cheddar Crust Apple Pie
A savory apple pie featuring a cheddar crust that combines sweet and cheesy flavors, perfect for cheese lovers and ideal for casual family gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine flour and salt; cut in shortening until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Stir in shredded sharp Cheddar cheese.
- Add water while mixing lightly with a fork; form into a ball.
- Divide dough in half.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll each dough ball into a 12-inch circle.
- Place one dough circle in a 9-inch pie plate, pressing to fit the bottom and sides.
- Fill with peeled apple slices mixed with sugar, flour, and cinnamon.
- Cover with the second rolled-out dough circle, seal edges, and cut slits to vent.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) until golden and apples are tender, about 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flakier crust, ensure your shortening is cold and handle the dough as little as possible. If you don't have Cheddar cheese, try a sharp Gruyere for a similar flavor. You can also use a mix of apples like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp for a balanced sweetness. To enhance the flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg along with the cinnamon.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful contrast to the savory cheese crust. This pie pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or a scoop of vanilla pudding for dessert. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a fresh salad like Acini De Pepe Salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover pie in the refrigerator, covered loosely with foil or plastic wrap. It will keep well for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through, preserving the crust’s crispness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheddar Crust Apple Pie contains roughly 735 calories, with 16g protein, 89g carbohydrates, and 36g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (37% of the Daily Value), protein (32% of the Daily Value), and calcium (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2227mg per serving (97% 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 cheese in the crust?
Yes, you can experiment with different cheeses like feta or mozzarella, but keep in mind that the flavor profile will change. Sharp or aged cheeses work best to maintain the savory edge of the pie. Just ensure the cheese is shredded for even distribution in the crust.
What types of apples are best for apple pie?
A mix of tart and sweet apples generally works best. Granny Smith apples add tartness, while Honeycrisp or Fuji provide sweetness. This combination ensures a balanced flavor and texture in your pie. Avoid soft apples like Red Delicious, as they can turn mushy when baked.
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the pie up to the point of baking, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply remove the wrap and bake as directed. You can also freeze the unbaked pie for up to 3 months; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time when you take it out of the freezer.
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).