Crazy Crust Apple Pie Recipe – Hungarian Chef

Last Updated on February 21, 2024

Once upon a time, in a cozy kitchen filled with the aroma of warm spices and sweet fruits, I stumbled upon a recipe for Crazy Crust Apple Pie that changed the way I viewed traditional desserts forever. 

Intrigued by the name and the promise of a unique twist on a classic favorite, I set out on a baking adventure that led me to uncover the secrets behind this irresistible treat.

What is this mysterious Crazy Crust Apple Pie, you ask? Well, let me tell you – it’s not your average apple pie. This delightful dessert features a buttery and crumbly crust that forms magically during the baking process, creating a crispy and crunchy topping that perfectly complements the juicy apple filling inside. 

With a hint of warm spices and a touch of lemon for brightness, this pie is a symphony of flavors and textures that will leave your taste buds dancing with delight.

What Does It Taste Like?

Now, let’s talk about the most important aspect of any recipe – the taste. Crazy Crust Apple Pie is a harmonious blend of sweet and tart flavors, with the buttery crust adding a rich and decadent element to each bite. The apple pie spice and lemon juice elevate the filling, infusing it with a warm and zesty undertone that balances the sweetness of the apples perfectly. Every mouthful is a sensational experience, with the contrasting textures of the crispy crust and the tender apples creating a truly unforgettable dessert.

Why This Recipe Works?

1. Unique Crust Formation: The magic of Crazy Crust Apple Pie lies in the way the crust forms during baking, creating a delightful top layer that is both crispy and crumbly.

2. Balanced Flavors: The combination of apple pie spice and lemon juice adds depth and complexity to the traditional apple pie filling, making it a more dynamic and interesting dessert.

3. Easy Preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this recipe is accessible to bakers of all skill levels, making it a perfect choice for both beginners and seasoned pros.

4. Crowd-Pleasing Results: Whether you’re serving this pie at a family gathering or a dinner party, the unique presentation and delicious flavor profile are sure to impress your guests and leave them coming back for more.

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Ingredients For Crazy Crust Apple Pie:

1⁄2 teaspoon apple pie spice: I add a touch of apple pie spice to infuse that warm, cozy flavor reminiscent of a classic apple pie. It transforms the ordinary into a comforting, spiced delight.

1⁄2 teaspoon salt: A pinch of salt is my secret weapon to balance the sweetness. It elevates the overall flavor profile, ensuring the pie isn’t overwhelmingly sweet but a perfect harmony of tastes.

1 egg: Eggs are my binding agents, holding the crust together and contributing to its structure. They add richness and that golden finish, making each bite satisfying.

1 (21 ounce) can apple pie filling: This canned goodness saves time while delivering the quintessential apple pie filling. It’s a shortcut to that luscious, fruity layer without compromising on taste.

½ cup melted butter: Butter, glorious butter! Melted to perfection, it infuses richness and a buttery essence into the crust. It’s the key to achieving that melt-in-your-mouth texture.

1 tablespoon lemon juice: The zing of lemon juice cuts through the sweetness, adding a refreshing note to the apple filling. It’s my little trick to enhance the overall balance of flavors.

2⁄3 cup shortening: Shortening gives the crust its flakiness. It’s the unsung hero that ensures a delicate, tender bite, making the crust a textural delight.

1 tablespoon sugar: A touch of sugar enhances the sweetness of the crust, balancing the flavors and contributing to that golden brown perfection when baked.

3⁄4 cup water: Water binds the dough together, helping me achieve the right consistency. It’s the unsung hydrator that ensures a workable, smooth dough.

1 cup all-purpose flour: The foundation of my crust! All-purpose flour provides structure and texture, creating a sturdy base for the pie. It’s the canvas for all the flavors.

1 teaspoon baking powder: Baking powder acts as my rising agent, giving the crust a slight lift and contributing to its flakiness. It ensures the perfect texture in every bite.

Step by Step Instructions:

Step 1: Mixing Up Magic

In a little mixer bowl, let the magic begin. Combine 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 1⁄2 teaspoon salt, 1 tablespoon sugar, 1 egg, 2⁄3 cup shortening, and 3⁄4 cup water. Blend this enchanting concoction until it’s a smooth symphony.

Beat the mix at medium speed for a glorious two minutes. Feel the rhythm? Your crazy crust is coming to life!

Step 2: Pie Pan Ballet

Pour this dancing batter into a deep 9″ pie pan. Watch as it gracefully settles, creating the perfect stage for your Crazy Crust Apple Pie.

Step 3: Filling Elegance

Now, let’s weave in the elegance. Combine 1 (21 ounce) can apple pie filling, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, and 1⁄2 teaspoon apple pie spice. This is your star filling. Pour it into the center of the batter, creating a spectacular centerpiece for your pie.

Step 4: Baking Extravaganza

The grand finale! Bake this masterpiece at 425°F for 45 to 50 minutes. Your kitchen will be filled with the irresistible aroma of Crazy Crust Apple Pie – a scent that whispers perfection.

Notes:

– For a more rustic look, you can gently press the crumbled dough together to form larger clumps before placing it on top of the pie.

– If the crust starts to brown too quickly during baking, loosely tent a piece of foil over the pie to prevent burning.

– Experiment with different fruit fillings, such as cherry or peach, for a fun twist on this recipe.

– Serve the pie warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra decadent treat.

– This pie can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Simply reheat in the oven before serving for a quick and delicious dessert option.

Nutrition Information:

– Serving Size: 1 slice

– Calories: 299.6

– Total Fat: 17.9g

– Cholesterol: 26.4mg

– Sodium: 233.2mg

– Total Carbohydrates: 33.5g

– Dietary Fiber: 1.2g

– Sugars: 12.1g

– Protein: 2.5g

How To Store The Leftovers?

To store any leftover Crazy Crust Apple Pie, simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate. 

When ready to eat, you can reheat individual slices in the microwave or warm the entire pie in the oven at a low temperature until heated through. 

This pie also freezes well – just wrap it securely and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Sides For Crazy Crust Apple Pie:

– Vanilla ice cream: The cool and creamy texture of vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with the warm pie, creating a delightful contrast.

– Caramel sauce: Drizzle some rich and gooey caramel sauce over the pie for an extra indulgent touch.

– Whipped cream: Light and fluffy whipped cream adds a touch of elegance to this rustic dessert.

– Hot apple cider: A steaming cup of hot apple cider is the ideal beverage to accompany a slice of Crazy Crust Apple Pie on a chilly evening.

What are some alternative choices to the ingredients in case they are not in your pantry?

– Instead of apple pie spice, you can use a mixture of cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice for a similar flavor profile.

– If you don’t have shortening on hand, you can substitute butter or margarine in equal amounts.

– Lemon juice can be replaced with orange juice or apple cider vinegar for a tangy kick.

– For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.

– If you prefer a lighter crust, you can use half shortening and half butter in the dough mixture for a more delicate texture.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use fresh apples instead of canned pie filling?

Yes, you can certainly use fresh apples for this recipe. Simply peel, core, and slice the apples, then toss them with sugar, cinnamon, and a squeeze of lemon juice before assembling the pie.

2. Can I make this pie ahead of time and freeze it before baking?

While you can freeze the unbaked pie for a few days, I recommend baking it fresh for the best results. The crust may not form as effectively if frozen before baking.

3. Can I use this crust recipe for other types of fruit pies?

Absolutely! This versatile crust recipe works well with a variety of fruit fillings, such as cherry, peach, or berry. Feel free to experiment and create your own unique dessert creations.

4. Can I make a vegan version of this pie?

For a vegan-friendly option, you can substitute coconut oil or vegetable shortening for the butter and use a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) in place of the egg in the crust.

Conclusion

As my Crazy Crust Apple Pie disappeared slice by slice at the family gathering, I couldn’t help but smile at the joy it brought to everyone’s faces. 

This recipe is more than just a dessert – it’s a memory in the making, a tradition in the baking, and a celebration of simple pleasures. I hope that you, too, will embark on your own journey with this delightful pie and create moments that will last a lifetime.

So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let the magic of Crazy Crust Apple Pie enchant you with every delicious bite.

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