Ritz Cracker 'Apple' Pie
Ritz Cracker 'Apple' Pie Recipe - Delicious American Dessert
Introduction
Ritz Cracker 'Apple' Pie is a unique twist on the classic apple pie, using Ritz crackers instead of traditional apples. This recipe is a delicious and easy dessert that is sure to impress your family and friends.
History
The Ritz Cracker 'Apple' Pie recipe has been around for decades, with its origins dating back to the early 20th century. It was created as a creative and budget-friendly alternative to traditional apple pie, using pantry staples like Ritz crackers to mimic the texture and flavor of apples.
Ingredients
- 1 pre-made pie crust
- 44 ritz crackers, crumbled
- 1.75 cups water
- 2 cups sugar
- 2 tsp cream of tartar (not tartar sauce, like my dad thought it was)
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp margarine or butter, or the "I Can't Believe It's Not butter" spray works, too.
- 0.5 tsp ground cinnamon
How to prepare
- Roll out half of the pastry and line a 9-inch pie tin.
- Place about three-quarters of the cracker crumbs in the prepared crust and set it aside.
- Take the remaining quarter of the crumbs and set it aside for later use.
- In a saucepan, bring the water, sugar, and cream of tartar to a boil over high heat.
- Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes.
- Remove the mixture from the heat and stir in the lemon juice.
- Allow the syrup to cool.
- Pour the cooled syrup over the cracker crumbs in the pie crust.
- Dot the mixture with margarine or butter and spread it evenly in the pie crust.
- Sprinkle the remaining quarter of the crumbs on top of the mixture to form an upper crust.
- Bake at 425°F (218°C) for 30 to 35 minutes or until the crust is crisp and golden.
- Allow the pie to cool before serving.
Variations
- Substitute Ritz crackers with graham crackers for a different flavor profile.
- Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cracker crumbs for extra warmth and spice.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to crumble the Ritz crackers finely to achieve a texture similar to apple slices.
- Allow the syrup mixture to cool before pouring it over the cracker crumbs to prevent sogginess.
- Serve the pie warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Ritz Cracker 'Apple' Pie warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert.
Cooking Techniques
Boil the sugar and water mixture to create a syrup that will bind the cracker crumbs together.
- Bake the pie at a high temperature to ensure a crisp and golden crust.
Ingredient Substitutions
Use margarine instead of butter for a dairy-free option.
- Swap out the lemon juice for apple cider vinegar for a tangy twist.
Make Ahead Tips
Prepare the pie crust and cracker crumbs ahead of time and assemble the pie just before baking for a quick and easy dessert.
Presentation Ideas
Serve the Ritz Cracker 'Apple' Pie in individual ramekins for a cute and elegant presentation. - Dust the pie with powdered sugar or cinnamon for a decorative touch.
Pairing Recommendations
Pair the Ritz Cracker 'Apple' Pie with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a cozy dessert experience.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftover pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat the pie in the oven at 350°F (177°C) for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
250
Carbohydrates
- Total Carbohydrates: 45g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 30g
Fats
- Total Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
Proteins
- Protein: 1g
Vitamins and minerals
Vitamin C: 2%
- Calcium: 1%
- Iron: 2%
Alergens
Contains wheat and dairy
Summary
Ritz Cracker 'Apple' Pie is a sweet and indulgent dessert that is high in carbohydrates and fats. It is a treat best enjoyed in moderation.
Summary
Ritz Cracker 'Apple' Pie is a fun and creative dessert that is perfect for any occasion. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!
How did I get this recipe?
I have a clear memory of the first time I saw this recipe for Ritz Cracker 'Apple' Pie. It was a warm summer day, and I had just finished helping my mother with the dishes. As I was wiping down the countertops, I noticed a yellowed piece of paper tucked into one of the drawers. Curious, I pulled it out and unfolded it to reveal a handwritten recipe for what appeared to be an apple pie.
But as I read through the ingredients list, I realized that this was no ordinary apple pie recipe. Instead of using real apples, it called for Ritz crackers to mimic the texture and flavor of the fruit. Intrigued, I immediately set out to make this unique dessert.
As I gathered the necessary ingredients, memories flooded back to me of all the recipes I had learned over the years. Some came from cookbooks, others from friends and family, and a few I had even picked up from my travels around the world. But this Ritz Cracker 'Apple' Pie recipe was unlike anything I had encountered before.
I carefully followed the instructions, crushing the crackers into coarse crumbs and mixing them with sugar, cinnamon, and butter to create a crumbly crust. I then spread the mixture into a pie dish, pressing it firmly into place to form a solid base for the pie.
Next, I prepared the "filling" by boiling water, sugar, and cream of tartar until it formed a thick syrup. I then added more crushed crackers, lemon juice, and a touch of vanilla extract to the mixture, stirring until it thickened and resembled the consistency of cooked apples.
Finally, I poured the "apple" filling into the prepared crust and sprinkled it with a generous topping of more crushed Ritz crackers mixed with sugar and butter. The pie went into the oven to bake, filling the kitchen with the warm aroma of cinnamon and vanilla.
As the pie baked, I couldn't help but wonder about the origins of this unusual recipe. Who had come up with the idea to use crackers in place of apples? And why had they chosen Ritz crackers specifically? I made a mental note to do some research on the history of this dish once the pie was finished.
When the timer finally dinged, I pulled the pie out of the oven and marveled at its golden-brown crust and bubbling filling. I let it cool for a few minutes before cutting into it and taking my first bite.
The taste was surprising and delightful. The crackers had softened during baking, taking on a texture similar to cooked apples but with a slightly buttery undertone that added a richness to the dish. The cinnamon and vanilla flavors complemented the "apples" perfectly, creating a dessert that was both familiar and new at the same time.
I knew then that this Ritz Cracker 'Apple' Pie would become a staple in my repertoire of recipes. It was a testament to the creativity and resourcefulness of home cooks everywhere, who could take simple ingredients like crackers and turn them into something truly magical.
And so, as I savored each bite of that first slice of pie, I made a promise to myself to continue seeking out new and exciting recipes from all corners of the world. Because you never know where you might find inspiration for your next culinary masterpiece.