10 Cast Iron Skillet Apple Pie Recipes

Ever wondered why apple pies in a cast iron skillet taste better than the ones in regular pans? After lots of experiments, the answer was clear. Cast iron skillets add a special touch to apple pies. They combine a flaky crust with soft apples perfectly.

This collection features 10 delicious cast iron skillet apple pie recipes. They’ll make you want to celebrate. You’ll find classics and new twists suitable for any baker. You’re sure to find one you love.

In my kitchen, I tried these recipes using several electric skillets. The pies came out so well, with a crispy golden top and delicious filling. We will look at the world of cast iron skillet apple pies together. You might just find your new go-to dessert!

Key Takeaways

• Cast iron skillets provide even heat distribution for perfectly baked pies
• These recipes range from classic to innovative apple pie variations
• Skillet apple pies offer a unique blend of flaky crust and tender apples
• Each recipe is suitable for different skill levels and dietary preferences
• Using an electric skillet can ensure consistent results in baking

The Charm of Cast Iron Skillet Apple Pies

Cast iron cooking is beloved in America. These pans warm our hearts with nostalgia. Baking in a cast iron skillet gives apple pies a special touch.

Historical Significance of Cast Iron Cooking

For many centuries, cast iron has been a kitchen staple. It began with pioneers and is still loved today. The durability and adaptability of these pans are great for making apple pies.

Benefits of Baking Pies in Cast Iron

When you use cast iron for pies, there are many perks. The heat spreads evenly, so your crust bakes perfectly every time. These skillets can be used on the stove and in the oven, which means you can boost your filling’s flavor before baking.

Additionally, the iron from the skillet enriches the pie’s taste.

Unique Flavors and Textures Achieved

Baking in cast iron enhances flavors in a unique way. The heat retention makes the crust golden and crispy. This contrasts perfectly with a moist and flavorful filling, making every bite a joy.

To step up your apple pie, use a cast iron skillet. The pie will look rustic and taste amazing. For tips on caring for your cast iron skillet, check out our guide.

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Skillet Apple Pies

Making a great cast iron skillet apple pie is all about the ingredients. The perfect mix of baking apples, pie spices, butter, and sugar is key. We’ll look at what makes the perfect skillet apple pie so special.

Selecting the Right Apples

It’s important to choose the right apples for baking. Choose firm, tart apples that won’t turn mushy when baked. They balance well with the sweet filling. These are several good choices:

• Granny Smith: Tart and crisp, perfect for baking
• Honeycrisp: Sweet-tart flavor, holds up well in heat
• Braeburn: Crisp texture with a hint of spice
• Pink Lady: Sweet-tart balance, stays firm when cooked

Complementary Spices and Seasonings

The right pie spices can really make your apple pie delicious. I use:

• Cinnamon: 1 teaspoon for warmth and aroma
• Nutmeg: 1/4 teaspoon for a nutty depth
• Allspice: 1/8 teaspoon for a complex flavor
• Lemon juice: 1 tablespoon to brighten flavors and prevent browning

Using freshly grated nutmeg instead of pre-ground adds a lot of flavor.

Butter and Sugar Combinations

A good mix of butter and sugar makes a yummy, caramelized filling. I like to use:

• Unsalted butter: 1/4 cup for flavor control
• Brown sugar: 1/2 cup for depth and moisture
• White sugar: 1/4 cup for sweetness and crispness

Before you bake, make sure to season your cast iron skillet right. This step stops the pie from sticking and adds flavor.

Preparing Your Cast Iron Skillet for Baking

I really enjoy making apple pies in my cast iron skillet. The secret is to prep the skillet right. I start by seasoning it to make it non-stick. This means cleaning the skillet, adding a bit of oil, and baking it at a high temperature.

Before I put the crust in, I warm up my 10-inch skillet. This makes the bottom of the pie really crunchy. I don’t use soap to clean it so the seasoning stays good. As I use it more, the skillet works even better.

Check out my guide for preparing your skillet:

1. Wash the skillet with hot water and dry thoroughly
2. Apply a thin layer of vegetable oil all over
3. Place the skillet upside down in the oven at 450°F for 1 hour
4. Let it cool in the oven

This way, you get a strong, non-stick surface that’s great for baking pies. A well-seasoned skillet makes a big difference in how the pie turns out. For more recipes, take a look at this delicious Chicago deep dish pizza recipe.

Classic Cast Iron Skillet Apple Pie Recipe

There’s something about baking apple pie in a cast iron skillet. It makes the crust crisp and the filling tender. With this recipe, we’ll show you how.

Ingredient List and Measurements

For the filling, you’ll need:

• 6 cups Granny Smith apples, peeled and sliced
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup white sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch

For the crust:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
• 1/4 cup ice water
• 1 teaspoon salt

Step-by-Step Baking Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F
2. Mix filling ingredients in a bowl
3. Combine flour and salt for crust
4. Cut in cold butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs
5. Add ice water gradually, forming dough
6. Roll out two crusts
7. Line skillet with bottom crust
8. Add filling
9. Top with second crust, seal edges
10. Bake for 45-50 minutes until golden brown

Tips for Achieving the Perfect Crust

To get the perfect crust, remember to keep everything cold. Don’t work the dough too much. Brushing the top crust with egg wash adds shine. Practice is key to perfecting your pie. For more tips, try out this delicious stir fry recipe that uses a skillet.

Gluten-Free Cast Iron Apple Pie Alternative

I enjoy making desserts for everyone, even those with special diets. I’ve found a way to make a gluten-free pie crust perfect for apple pies in a cast iron skillet. The crust is both delicious and has a great texture, thanks to the mix of flours I use.

My recipe for the crust involves a special mix. I use 1 cup of rice flour, 1/2 cup of almond flour, and 1/4 cup of tapioca starch. This blend mimics the feel of regular wheat flour. Adding 1 teaspoon of xanthan gum helps the crust hold together well.

For the pie’s filling, I skip the wheat flour and add 2 tablespoons of cornstarch to thicken it up. It’s important that every part of the recipe you use, like spices and vanilla, is marked gluten-free. This keeps the whole pie safe to eat for gluten-sensitive people.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Mix the flour blend, xanthan gum, 1/4 cup sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon salt in a bowl.
2. Cut in 1/2 cup cold butter until the mixture looks like small crumbs.
3. Then, add 1 beaten egg and 2-3 tablespoons ice water. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough and put it in a 10-inch cast iron skillet.
5. For the filling, mix 6 cups sliced apples, 1/2 cup sugar, 2 tablespoons cornstarch, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg.
6. Put the filling in the crust and top with 2 tablespoons of butter.
7. Bake at 350°F for about 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the filling bubbles.

This apple pie is a great choice for those who need to avoid gluten. It’s just as delicious as its gluten-filled version. So, you can enjoy tasty pies even with dietary limits. For more skillet recipes, check out this flavorful skillet meal.

Low-Carb Skillet Apple Pie for Health-Conscious Bakers

I enjoy making apple pies, but I strive to bake healthy treats. This low-carb skillet apple pie is my go-to recipe. It’s great for those who want a classic treat with fewer carbs.

Ingredient Substitutions for Reducing Carbs

For a low-carb crust, I swap wheat flour with almond and coconut flour. Erythritol or monk fruit sweetener stands in for sugar. Now, let’s look at the key ingredients:

• 2 cups almond flour
• 1/4 cup coconut flour
• 1/2 cup erythritol
• 4 cups sliced apples (add 1 cup shredded zucchini to cut carbs)
• 2 tbsp cinnamon
• 1 tsp nutmeg
• 2 tbsp chia seeds

Nutritional Benefits of Low-Carb Options

This pie isn’t just low-carb; it’s packed with health benefits. Almond and coconut flours offer good fats and fiber. Chia seeds bring omega-3 and more fiber. The low sugar and high fiber lower its effect on blood sugar.

This apple pie in a skillet is ideal for dessert lovers watching their health. For more tasty and healthy recipes, visit this shrimp and broccoli stir-fry recipe.

Vegetarian-Friendly Cast Iron Apple Pie Variations

I enjoy making treats that all can eat. A great choice is a cast iron apple pie. It uses plant-based foods. This way, we get tasty pies that don’t need dairy but keep the great taste.

For a crust that fits vegan diets, I use coconut oil instead of butter. It makes a crust just as good as the normal one. To get the pie shiny, I brush aquafaba on top. This is the water from tinned chickpeas.

In the mix, maple syrup is key for sweetness. It helps the apples taste even better. A bit of cashew cream adds a creamy touch, making it extra special without using dairy.

Want to make a tasty vegetarian apple pie? Here’s what you need:

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup cold coconut oil
• 1/4 cup ice water
• 6 cups sliced apples
• 1/2 cup maple syrup
• 1/4 cup cashew cream
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg

First, make the crust by mixing the ingredients. Then, chill the dough and roll it out. Fill with apples and bake at 375°F for 45 minutes. The outcome? A tasty dessert that will wow everyone!

Cast Iron Skillet Apple Crumble Pie

I love making apple crumble pies in my cast iron skillet. It’s perfect for getting a dessert both crispy and soft. This treat is not just delicious but also quite easy to make. Let’s jump into the simple steps to enjoy this heartwarming delight!

Creating the Perfect Crumble Topping

The oat topping is what makes an apple crumble pie special. It’s a mix of oats, flour, brown sugar, melted butter, cinnamon, baking soda and powder, plus a little salt. This blend gives you a tasty, crunchy layer that works great with the apples.

Balancing Sweetness and Texture

For the filling, I pick 5-6 Granny Smith apples. They add a nice tartness. I mix them with lemon juice, butter, sugars, and spices. This mix offers a nice contrast between the soft apples and the crunchy topping.

After preparing the filling and topping, I spread the apples in the skillet. Then, I evenly sprinkle the topping. It bakes at 350°F for about 40 minutes until it looks just right. Let it cool a bit, and you’re ready to enjoy your efforts. This amount makes enough to please at least 8-10 people.

Maple-Infused Cast Iron Apple Pie Delight

I adore making autumn treats, like this maple cast iron apple pie. It’s a favorite for me because it mixes maple syrup with sugar. This blend creates a fall flavor that is truly delightful. So, come and enjoy this tasty, hearty dessert!

For the filling, gather these ingredients:

• 6-7 cups sliced Granny Smith apples (about 5-6 apples)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Mix these items well in a big bowl to ensure the apples are coated. The maple syrup makes the dish taste richer. It also brings out the apples’ natural sweetness.

Remember to pick your favorite pie dough recipe for the crust. Brush the top crust with maple syrup before baking. This swap makes your pie shine and adds more maple flavor.

Bake your pie in a 9-inch cast iron skillet at 375°F for 45-50 minutes. The skillet helps cook the pie perfectly with a crispy bottom crust.

For a special topping, add maple-candied pecans. Mix 1/2 cup chopped pecans with 2 tablespoons maple syrup and a pinch of salt. Then, bake them at 350°F for 10 minutes.

This pie celebrates the sweet, cozy season of fall using natural ingredients. It will surely be a hit in your fall baking collection!

Chai-Spiced Skillet Apple Pie Recipe

I enjoy mixing exotic flavors into classic sweets. My chai-spiced skillet apple pie combines tradition with a touch of new. It brings the cozy scents of chai spices to a much-loved treat, giving it a fresh wave of taste.

Incorporating chai spices into the filling

I have a special mix of spices for the perfect chai-filled pie:

• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon cardamom
• 1/2 teaspoon ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

I blend these spices with 6 cups of apple slices, 1/2 cup sugar, and 2 tablespoons of flour. This makes a filling rich with lively flavors. It combines well with the sweet apples.

Pairing suggestions for chai-spiced pies

This chai-spiced apple pie’s unique taste matches with special sides. Vanilla ice cream cuts through the spices perfectly. Mascarpone cheese offers a rich, exotic twist that goes well with the pie’s flavors.

This chai-spiced skillet apple pie has won over my friends and family. My friend Sofia, an eager taste-tester, rated it five stars. She claimed it was the best apple pie she’s ever enjoyed. It turns a classic into something truly memorable.

Caramel Apple Pie in a Cast Iron Skillet

This Caramel Apple Pie in a Cast Iron Skillet is a true delight. Its sweet caramel and tart apples are a hit. Making this for 8 people takes just 1 hour and 40 minutes from start to finish.

The apple filling consists of:

• 6 cups sliced apples (I prefer Granny Smith for their tartness)
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1/3 cup firmly packed light brown sugar
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1/8 teaspoon apple pie spice

What’s first? Make your pie crust and chill. Then, melt butter and sugar for the caramel. Using a cast iron skillet keeps the caramel just right. It won’t burn or get too hot.

Now, prepare the apple mix. Pour some caramel on the crust, then add the apples. Top it off with the rest of the caramel. Bake at 375°F for 45 minutes until it’s all golden. Cool a bit. Serve with vanilla ice cream and enjoy!

That’s how you make a special treat shine. The skillet makes the crust perfect. The mix of sweet caramel and tangy apples is just right. Perfect for any autumn get-together.

Dutch-Style Cast Iron Skillet Apple Pie

My favorite is baking Dutch apple pie. It fits right between European and American flavors. Plus, the cast iron skillet makes the pie’s inside extra deep and juicy.

Differences between Dutch and American Apple Pies

Dutch apple pie likes its streusel more than a top crust. This adds a nice crunch to the soft apples underneath. Also, it often has raisins, which offer both sweetness and chew.

Traditional Dutch Apple Pie Techniques

For a real Dutch apple pie, I always use my 10-inch skillet. Use this recipe to make it:

1. First, preheat to 350°F
2. For the filling, mix 6 sliced apples, 1/2 cup raisins, 1/4 cup sugar, and 1 tsp speculaas spice
3. Then, for the top, mix 1 cup flour, 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1/2 cup cold butter, and 1 tsp cinnamon
4. Lastly, layer the filling, add the top, and bake for 40-45 minutes

You’ll get a pie with a crispy gold top and a warm, gooey middle. A little whipped cream on top makes it perfect and oh so Dutch.

Cast Iron Skillet Apple Pie Recipes for Special Diets

I enjoy making apple pie, but many have diet limits. That’s why I made special recipes for a variety of diets. If you’re into keto, paleo, or vegan, there’s a pie for you!

Keto diet? You’ll like the almond flour crust and erythritol sugar swap. For paleo, coconut flour and honey will do the trick. Vegan? Use coconut oil, and pick a plant-based milk for the wash.

Here’s a basic recipe you can tweak to fit your diet:

To make it, first heat your oven to 350°F. Toss apples with cinnamon and sweetener. Melt butter in the skillet, add brown sugar, then the apples. Top it with crust, brush on egg white (or plant milk for vegan), and sugar. Bake for 70 minutes until golden.

Feel free to tweak the recipes to fit your diet. You can still have a tasty apple pie your way!

Serving and Presentation Tips for Skillet Apple Pies

I adore cast iron skillet apple pies for their rustic charm. These are several tips to make your dessert stand out. You’ll learn how to style and serve your pie like a pro.

Creative Plating Ideas

Serve your pie straight from the skillet for a cozy feel. It warms up how your dessert looks. For special occasions, go for mini skillets. They’re perfect for dinner parties!

• Dust the top with powdered sugar for a snowy effect
• Drizzle warm caramel sauce in a zigzag pattern
• Place a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top just before serving
• Add a dollop of whipped cream for a classic touch

Complementary Toppings and Garnishes

Choosing the right toppings can really make your dessert style pop. I like to add these special touches:

• Thin apple slices fanned out on top
• Cinnamon sticks for aroma and visual appeal
• Edible flowers for a pop of color
• A sprinkle of coarse sugar on the crust for sparkle

To add even more appeal, try a slice of cheddar cheese with your pie. It’s a classic combo that enriches the flavors.

Remember, the balance is key in food styling. Stick to simple garnishes. Let the skillet apple pie’s natural beauty shine.

Storing and Reheating Your Cast Iron Apple Pie

Proper food storage is key to enjoying leftover pie. Keep your cast iron skillet apple pie fresh. Cover it with plastic wrap and put it in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer times, wrap slices in plastic and foil, then freeze. It stays tasty for up to 3 months this way!

For reheating, use the oven. Preheat it to 350°F. Warm your refrigerated pie for about 15 minutes. If frozen, it needs about 25 minutes. Avoid the microwave to prevent a soggy crust. Thaw frozen pie in the fridge for the best taste.

To make your leftover pie taste great again, try topping it with cinnamon or caramel sauce before serving. These simple additions can make your pie as good as freshly baked. Be cautious with the hot skillet from reheating!