Get ready to revolutionize your dessert game with the most unexpectedly delicious pie you'll ever taste! Imagine a classic apple pie that takes an extraordinary twist - where golden, nutty browned butter meets sharp cheddar cheese, creating a mind-blowing flavor combination that will make your taste buds dance. This Brown Butter Cheddar Apple Pie isn't just a dessert; it's a culinary adventure that bridges the gap between sweet and savory, promising to become the star of your next gathering or family dinner.
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup ice water
- 6 cups apples, peeled and sliced
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Brown the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat, swirling occasionally until it turns a golden amber color and develops a nutty aroma. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar. Cut cold butter into small cubes and work into the flour mixture using a pastry cutter or your fingers until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add ice water, mixing until the dough just comes together. Divide the dough into two equal portions, shape into discs, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for 1 hour.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Peel and slice apples into thin, even pieces. Toss apple slices with brown sugar, cinnamon, and half of the browned butter.
- Roll out one disc of dough on a floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Carefully transfer the dough to the dish, trimming excess edges.
- Layer the apple mixture into the pie crust, ensuring even distribution. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the apples.
- Roll out the second dough disc and create a lattice top or full cover for the pie. Crimp edges and brush with remaining browned butter.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. If edges brown too quickly, cover with aluminum foil.
- Remove from oven and let cool for 30 minutes before serving. The pie can be served warm or at room temperature.
Tips
- Choose the Right Apples: Select firm, tart varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp that will hold their shape and provide a perfect balance to the rich cheddar.
- Brown Butter Technique: Watch your butter carefully while browning. The transition from melted to browned happens quickly, and you want a golden amber color without burning.
- Chill Your Dough: Don't skip the 1-hour refrigeration for your pie crust. This helps prevent shrinkage and ensures a flaky, tender texture.
- Cheese Matters: Use a sharp cheddar for maximum flavor impact. Freshly grated cheese will melt more evenly than pre-shredded varieties.
- Prevent Soggy Bottom: Sprinkle a thin layer of breadcrumbs or crushed graham crackers on the bottom crust to absorb excess moisture.
- Lattice Top Trick: If creating a lattice top seems challenging, you can also use cookie cutters to create decorative cut-outs for a stunning presentation.
- Cooling is Crucial: Allow the pie to cool for at least 30 minutes to let the filling set, making slicing easier and preventing runny filling.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 520kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 20g
Cholesterol: 90mg
