For those who love apple pie but want to skip the oven, this no-bake apple pie recipe is a fantastic alternative. It’s a fast and straightforward way to savor the classic flavors of apple pie without the fuss. Featuring a crisp graham cracker crust, a luscious spiced apple filling, and topped with a swirl of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, this dessert is perfect for any occasion or just as a delightful treat for yourself.
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ⅓ cup melted butter
- 2 tablespoons sugar
For the Filling:
- 4 large apples (Granny Smith or your preferred variety)
- ¼ cup water
- ⅓ cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
For the Topping (optional):
- Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream
Instructions:
- Prepare the Crust:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Mix well until the crumbs are evenly coated and the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Firmly pack the crumb mixture into the base and sides of a 9-inch pie dish to create an even crust.
- Use the back of a spoon or the bottom of a glass to press it firmly in place.
- Once the crust is formed, place it in the refrigerator to set while you prepare the filling.
- Prepare the Apple Filling:
- Peel, core, and slice the apples into thin, even slices. Set aside.
- In a large saucepan, combine the water, sugar, and ground cinnamon. Stir in the apple slices and cook over medium heat until the apples begin to soften, about 5-7 minutes.
- In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with the lemon juice to create a slurry. Add this to the apple mixture and continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens and the apples are fully coated, about 2-3 minutes.
- Assemble the Pie:
- Once the apple filling has cooled a bit, pour it into the prepared graham cracker crust. Spread the filling evenly, making sure all the apples are nicely arranged.
- Cover the pie with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the filling to set.
- Serve:
- When ready to serve, top each slice with a generous dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, if desired. The creamy topping pairs beautifully with the tart and sweet apple filling.
Conclusion:
This no-bake apple pie is a fantastic option when you want the flavors of a classic apple pie without the time and effort of baking. The graham cracker crust adds a buttery crunch, while the apple filling provides a perfect balance of sweetness and spice. It’s an ideal dessert for warm days when you want to keep things cool in the kitchen or for any time you need a quick and delicious treat. Whether you top it with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or enjoy it as-is, this no-bake apple pie is sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.