Apple pie with applesauce

 

Apple Pie with Applesauce – A Cozy Twist on the Classic Dessert

There’s something timeless about a slice of warm apple pie. The flaky crust, the sweet and spiced filling, and the comforting aroma that fills the kitchen — it’s the kind of dessert that feels like home. But this version adds a delicious twist: we’re blending traditional apple chunks with smooth, flavorful applesauce for an extra-moist, naturally sweet filling that elevates the classic pie to new heights.

Whether you’re making this for a family dinner, a holiday gathering, or just because, this Apple Pie with Applesauce delivers all the nostalgia with an added layer of richness and depth.

---

🍏 Why Add Applesauce?

Applesauce doesn’t just make the pie filling softer and smoother — it also enhances the natural apple flavor and reduces the need for extra sugar. It acts as a natural sweetener and binder, creating a filling that’s:

• ✨ Extra moist and tender

• ✨ Richer in apple flavor

• ✨ Less reliant on added sugar

• ✨ Perfect for using up extra applesauce from your pantry or fridge

It’s a genius way to level up your pie while keeping things simple and budget-friendly.

---

🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Filling:

• 3–4 medium apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or your favorite baking variety), peeled and sliced

• 1 cup unsweetened applesauce

• ¼ to ⅓ cup brown sugar (adjust to taste)

• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (helps thicken)

• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg

• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

• A pinch of salt

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (to balance sweetness)

For the Pie:

• 1 double pie crust (store-bought or homemade)

• 1 egg (for egg wash, optional)

• Sugar and cinnamon (for sprinkling, optional)

---

👩‍🍳 How to Make Apple Pie with Applesauce

1. Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out one pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish and set aside.

2. Make the Filling

In a large bowl, mix the sliced apples, applesauce, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla, lemon juice, and salt. Toss until everything is evenly coated.

3. Assemble the Pie

Pour the filling into the prepared crust. Dot with a little butter if desired. Cover with the top crust — either a full crust with slits or a lattice pattern. Seal and crimp the edges.

4. Bake

Brush the top crust with an egg wash and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar if using. Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbling.

🍏 Tip: If the crust edges brown too quickly, cover them with foil halfway through baking.

5. Cool and Serve

Let the pie cool for at least 1 hour before slicing to allow the filling to set. Serve warm or at room temperature with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

---

🧁 Why You’ll Love This Pie

• ✅ Moist and flavorful filling

• ✅ Less added sugar, more natural sweetness

• ✅ Easy way to use up applesauce

• ✅ Perfect balance of texture — tender apples + smooth sauce

• ✅ Crowd-pleaser for any season!

---

🍂 Perfect For…

• Fall and holiday baking

• Sunday dinners

• Potlucks and bake sales

• Using up apples and pantry staples

• Anyone who loves a softer, richer apple pie filling

---

📝 Final Thoughts

This Apple Pie with Applesauce is a simple twist on a classic that delivers comfort and flavor in every bite. The applesauce adds moisture and richness, while the sliced apples bring that traditional bite and texture you know and love.

Whether you're a seasoned baker or trying your first pie, this recipe is easy, satisfying, and sure to become a family favorite. Give it a try — your kitchen will smell amazing, and your tastebuds will thank you!