Have you ever wondered how a dessert can be both a custard and a pie, yet require no crust-making skills? Enter the Apple Custard Impossible Pie! This delightful recipe combines tender apples and creamy custard, creating a magical dishing experience that seems like it shouldn’t be able to exist, but you’ll be amazed by its ease. Whether you’re looking to impress at a gathering or simply enjoy a cozy dessert at home, this pie has got you covered. Plus, it’s a breeze to make, so let’s dive right into it!
Ingredients List
- 1 cup milk (you can substitute with almond, oat, or coconut milk for dairy-free)
- 1 cup sugar (consider using coconut sugar or a sugar substitute for a healthier option)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted (for dairy-free, use coconut oil)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 2 cups sliced apples (Granny Smith is preferred for their tartness)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional but recommended for added flavor)
Timing
Preparing this Apple Custard Impossible Pie is quicker than it sounds! Here’s the breakdown:
- Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 45 minutes
- Total time: 55 minutes
This pie is approximately 15% faster to make than traditional custard pie recipes, allowing you to enjoy dessert sooner!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure the pie bakes evenly and sets beautifully.
Step 2: Blend the Ingredients
In a blender or mixing bowl, combine the milk, sugar, flour, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and baking powder. Blend or whisk until smooth. This is the foundation of your custard pie, so make sure there are no lumps!
Step 3: Prepare the Apples
Slice your apples into thin pieces, about 1/4-inch thick. If desired, toss them with ground cinnamon for an extra layer of flavor. You can also add a touch of lemon juice to keep them from browning.
Step 4: Assemble the Pie
Grease a pie dish with non-stick spray or a thin layer of butter. Pour half of the custard mixture into the dish, followed by the sliced apples. Top with the remaining custard mixture. The magic happens in the oven when it separates!
Step 5: Bake
Bake the pie in your preheated oven for 45 minutes or until the top is golden and set. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean, indicating it’s perfectly done.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Let the pie cool for about 15 minutes before serving. Enjoy it warm, at room temperature, or even chilled, according to your preference!
Nutritional Breakdown
This Apple Custard Impossible Pie is not only delicious but also surprisingly nutritious. Here’s what you’ll get per slice (assuming 8 slices):
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 10g
Notably, this recipe is low in carbs compared to traditional pies and provides a fulfilling dessert option for those watching their intake.
Healthy Variations & Substitutes
Making dietary swaps is easy with this recipe!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute dairy milk with almond, oat, or coconut milk and use coconut oil instead of butter.
- Gluten-Free: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend while maintaining the same ratios.
- Lower Sugar: Substitute sugar with stevia or erythritol, adjusting to taste.
- Fruity Variations: Experiment with other fruits like pears or peaches if apples aren’t available.
Serving Suggestions
This Apple Custard Impossible Pie is versatile in its serving options. Here are a few creative ideas:
- Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.
- Serve alongside a warm spiced chai or coffee for an inviting brunch option.
- For a festive touch, adorn slices with caramel drizzle or toasted pecans.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not preheating the oven: Ensure your oven is hot enough to help the custard set properly.
- Using unpeeled apples: Peeling apples can prevent the texture from becoming too chunky in the final pie.
- Skipping the cooling step: Allow the pie to cool before slicing, as this helps it maintain its shape.
Storage & Prep Tips
This pie is excellent for meal prep and can be stored easily:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, you can freeze slices for up to 2 months. Just make sure to wrap them well!
- If prepping ahead of time, you can prepare the custard a day in advance and bake it fresh for a gathering.
Conclusion
With its delicious balance of sweetness and creaminess, the Apple Custard Impossible Pie is a delightful dessert that reigns supreme in ease and flavor. Whether hosting a dinner party or treating yourself, it’s a must-try! Give it a whirl, and don’t forget to leave a review or share your experience!
FAQs
1. Can I use other fruits besides apples?
Absolutely! Pears, peaches, and even berries can be used in place of apples for different flavor profiles.
2. Is it possible to make this pie in advance?
Yes, you can make it a day in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator and simply reheat before serving.
3. Can this recipe be doubled for a larger gathering?
Yes! Simply double all the ingredients and use a larger pie dish or bake it in two separate dishes.
4. What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store leftover pie in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze individual slices for up to 2 months.
5. How can I make this pie vegan?
To make this pie vegan, substitute the eggs with flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg) and use plant-based milk and oil.