A Twist on Tradition: Beer-Infused Apple Pie

Memories in the Making

Baking a pie often evokes warm memories of childhood, and for many, it’s the nostalgia of making apple pies with family members that stands out. Recently, I decided to put a unique spin on this classic dessert by incorporating beer into the recipe, resulting in a standout pie that’s sure to impress even the most discerning palates.

The Perfect Blend of Flavors

To create this masterpiece, you’ll need a few essential ingredients, including:

• Beer (a white ale or wheat beer works well)
• Granny Smith apples
• A blend of white and brown sugars

The beer adds a rich, earthy flavor that complements the sweetness of the apples perfectly.

Crust and Filling: A Match Made in Heaven

The crust, made with:

• Sifted flour
• Kosher salt
• Cold shortening

provides a flaky, buttery base for the pie. Meanwhile, the filling – a mixture of:

• Sliced apples
• Sugars
• Cinnamon
• Nutmeg
• Flour

is infused with the reduced beer, creating a moist, flavorful filling.

Assembly and Baking

To assemble the pie, simply:

1. Roll out the dough
2. Fill with the apple mixture
3. Top with a crumbly crust
4. Brush with milk and sprinkle with sugar for a golden finish

Bake at 425°F for 10-12 minutes, then reduce the heat to 350°F for an additional 45-50 minutes.

The Finishing Touches

For an extra-special touch, top your pie with thin slices of sharp white or yellow cheddar cheese. Simply:

1. Halve the cheese slices
2. Arrange around the pie
3. Bake for an additional 5 minutes to soften

Serve warm, accompanied by a glass of your favorite beverage or a steaming cup of coffee.

Variations to Explore

Feel free to experiment with this recipe by adding plump raisins soaked in beer to the apple mixture for a French-inspired twist. Alternatively, try using the raisins and beer in a traditional pie crust for a unique flavor combination. The possibilities are endless!