Apple Cheddar Pie: 10 Reasons to Love This Comforting Dessert

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Apple Cheddar Pie is a delightful twist on a classic dessert that combines sweet, spiced apples with the savory goodness of cheddar cheese. This cozy, golden pie brings together contrasting flavors and textures, making it a unique and satisfying choice for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a dessert that warms the heart, this pie is sure to impress your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Apple Cheddar Pie

There are so many reasons to adore this Apple Cheddar Pie. First, the classic apple and cheddar combination creates a sweet and savory apple pie that tantalizes your taste buds. Second, the flaky, buttery cheddar crust elevates the experience, making each bite pure bliss. Third, it’s an easy apple cheddar pie recipe, perfect for bakers of all skill levels. Fourth, this pie is versatile; you can serve it warm with vanilla ice cream or at room temperature as a delicious snack. Fifth, the pie’s gorgeous appearance makes it a stunning centerpiece for any dessert table. Finally, it’s an excellent way to use up those extra apples you have lying around! This savory apple pie with cheddar is a must-try.

Ingredients for Apple Cheddar Pie

Gather these items:

2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled for accuracy)
2 1/4 teaspoons granulated sugar (for lightly sweetening the dough)
1 1/4 teaspoons salt (fine sea salt preferred)
1 1/4 cups unsalted butter (very cold and cut into cubes)
2/3 cup ice water (measured after chilling with ice)
1 1/4 cups sharp cheddar cheese (freshly grated for best melting)
1 large egg (for brushing the crust)
1 tablespoon milk (to mix with the egg wash)
2 teaspoons coarse sugar (for sprinkling on top optional)
10 large apples (peeled, cored, and sliced about 1/4-inch thick)
2/3 cup granulated sugar (for sweetening the filling)
1/3 cup all-purpose flour (to thicken the juices)
1 3/4 teaspoons ground cinnamon (for warm spice flavor)
1/3 teaspoon ground allspice (for subtle depth)
1/3 teaspoon ground cloves (for aroma)
1/3 teaspoon ground nutmeg (for warmth)
1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese (freshly grated to mix into filling)

How to Make Apple Cheddar Pie Step-by-Step

Step 1: Combine the flour, sugar, and salt in a large bowl, then scatter the cold butter cubes over the top and cut them in until the mixture looks crumbly with some pea-sized pieces.
Step 2: Slowly drizzle in the icy water a little at a time, stirring gently after each addition, just until the dough starts clumping together and feels slightly tacky.
Step 3: Gently fold in the shredded cheddar, then turn the dough onto a floured surface and lightly work it into a cohesive mass without overmixing.
Step 4: Shape the dough into a ball, divide it in half, flatten each into a thick disc, wrap tightly, and refrigerate for at least two hours.
Step 5: In a large bowl, toss the sliced apples with sugar, flour, spices, and the remaining cheddar until everything is evenly coated, then set aside.
Step 6: On a floured surface, roll one chilled dough disc into a wide circle and carefully fit it into the pie dish, smoothing it gently into the corners.
Step 7: Spoon the apple mixture evenly into the prepared crust, spreading it out so the filling sits level.
Step 8: Roll out the second dough disc and place it over the filling, either as a full top crust or a decorative design, then seal and shape the edges as desired.
Step 9: Brush the crust with the egg and milk mixture and sprinkle with coarse sugar if using, then place the pie in the refrigerator while the oven heats.
Step 10: Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C), set the pie on a baking sheet, and bake for 25 minutes until the crust begins to set.
Step 11: Reduce the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and continue baking for another 35–40 minutes, shielding the edges if they darken too quickly.
Step 12: Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool at room temperature for at least three hours so the filling can properly set before slicing.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Apple Cheddar Pie

Keep these in mind:

Let the pie cool completely for best results.
Use freshly grated cheese for better melting.
Adjust spices according to your taste preference.
For a gourmet finish, consider adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top before serving.

Best Ways to Serve Apple Cheddar Pie

Here are some delightful serving ideas:

Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream to enhance the sweet and savory flavors.
Pair with a slice of sharp cheddar cheese for a unique flavor combination.
Top with whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.

How to Store and Reheat Apple Cheddar Pie

To store, cover the pie with plastic wrap and keep it in the fridge for up to a week. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. This makes it perfect for meal prep!

Frequently Asked Questions About Apple Cheddar Pie

What’s the secret to perfect Apple Cheddar Pie?

The secret lies in using freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese and allowing the pie to cool completely before slicing. This ensures the filling sets properly and provides a delightful flavor balance between sweet and savory.

Can I make Apple Cheddar Pie ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the pie a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator after baking and let it cool completely. Reheat it before serving for the best taste.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Apple Cheddar Pie?

To avoid soggy crusts, ensure your pie crust is well-baked before adding the filling. Also, be careful not to overmix the dough to maintain a flaky texture.

Variations of Apple Cheddar Pie You Can Try

If you’re looking to mix things up, consider these variations:

Make an Apple Cheddar Tart by using a tart pan instead of a pie dish for a more elegant presentation.
Add nuts like walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch in your filling.
For a unique flavor, incorporate dried cranberries or raisins into the apple mixture.
Use a mix of sweet and tart apples to enhance the flavor profile further.

For more delicious dessert ideas, check out Apple Cinnamon Cottage Cheese Mug Cake or Creamy Pumpkin Cheesecake. If you’re interested in more savory options, consider Cheddar Jalapeno Meatball Poppers for a delightful appetizer.