Easy Crustless Apple Pie (Swedish Apple Pie)

This crustless apple pie recipe, also known as Swedish apple pie, bakes its own crust, making it the perfect easy dessert for any occasion. Brimming with juicy apples and a dash of warm cinnamon, and topped with a brown butter batter, this no-fuss apple dessert is a fall season favorite. Enjoy it warm, topped with vanilla ice cream!

Looking for a quick and easy apple pie recipe? This Swedish apple pie recipe is your answer. It’s a crustless apple pie, making its own crust as it bakes—no fuss needed.

The top crust has a tender, cake-like texture with a crispy exterior, perfectly complementing the warm apple filling inside. Once you try it, you’ll want to make this delicious pie over and over again.

How is the Swedish apple pie different from American apple pie?

Swedish-style apple pie is different from traditional apple pie mainly because it’s a no-crust apple pie. Instead of rolling out a dough for the pie crust, you simply mix the ingredients and pour them over the apples.

As it bakes, the mixture forms its own crust on top – no bottom crust needed. The top layer of this no-crust apple pie offers a unique texture that sits between a traditional pie crust and a cookie. It’s cake-like yet tender, with a crispy exterior that beautifully complements the warm apple filling inside.

This Swedish dessert is incredibly easy to make, especially for beginner bakers. It’s a quick, fuss-free, easy dessert filled with the classic flavors of fresh apples and warm spices. Perfect for anyone looking for a simple yet delicious apple pie alternative.

What are the best apples to use for this no-crust apple pie recipe?

The best apples to use are those that hold their shape well during baking and offer a balanced flavor. Granny Smith apples are a top choice due to their firm texture and tart flavor.

Other good options include Honeycrisp, Braeburn, or Fuji apples, which offer a mix of sweetness and tartness. Using the right apple variety can make a significant difference in the texture and taste of your pie.

Wanting to try more simple yet delicious apple desserts? Don’t miss out on my puff pastry apple strudel, soft apple cookies, or tempting apple brownie bars. They’re the perfect treats to celebrate the fall season!

Expert Tip – Use Brown Butter

To truly elevate your apple treat for this particular recipe, consider using brown butter in place of regular melted butter. The nutty, caramelized notes of brown butter wonderfully complement the apples and spices, adding an extra layer of complexity to your dessert.

This simple tweak can make a world of difference, transforming your pie from delicious to absolutely irresistible. See cooking instructions below for how to make brown butter.

Ingredients Needed

Here’s what you’ll need to make this simple yet scrumptious dessert:

• Apples: Any type of baking apple is suitable. I prefer using firm, tart apples like Granny Smith for this recipe.
• Lemon juice: Adds brightness and prevents the apples from browning.
• Sugar: I used white sugar but brown sugar or mixture of both will do great as well.
• Cinnamon: This apple pie spice adds warm, spicy undertones to the pie, enhancing its flavor.
• Butter: You can use regular butter, but consider brown butter for extra flavor depth.
• Eggs: These act as a binding agent for the pie. Room temperature recommended.
• All-purpose flour: Sifted to ensure a smooth, lump-free mixture.

How to make Crustless Apple pie: Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation: Preheat your oven to 375˚F and grease a 9-inch pie pan ( A deep dish pie plate works the best!)

Apple Mixture: Combine apple slices, lemon juice, 2 tablespoons of sugar, and cinnamon in a large bowl. Toss until apples are well-coated and place them in the greased 9-inch pie pan.

Brown the Butter: To make brown butter, simply melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Keep an eye on it as it starts to foam and eventually turns a golden brown color. You’ll also notice a rich, nutty aroma.

Once it reaches this stage, remove it from heat immediately to prevent burning. Let it cool slightly before incorporating it into your pie mixture.

Prepare Batter: Transfer the browned butter to a large mixing bowl. Add 3/4 cup of sugar and mix. Don’t worry if the sugar doesn’t fully dissolve. Stir in the eggs.

Add Flour: Sift flour through a fine mesh sieve and mix into the batter until well combined.

Assemble Pie: Pour the batter over top of the apples, making sure it’s spread evenly. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of sugar over the top.

Baking: Place the pie in the oven and bake for 40-50 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top crust forms cracks, although this can vary depending on your oven.

Serving Suggestions

A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream can add an extra layer of indulgence. If you prefer something lighter, a drizzle of caramel sauce or even a sprinkle of cinnamon can enhance the flavors.

For a holiday twist, pair it with a mug of warm apple cider or a glass of dessert wine. No matter how you choose to serve it, this pie is sure to be a hit.

Leftover Storage Tips

If you have leftover, make sure it cools down before you store it to avoid sogginess. Place the cooled pie in an airtight container to keep it fresh.

For short-term storage, keep it in the fridge for up to 4 days. If you want to store it for longer, you can freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap. To enjoy later, just thaw in the fridge and reheat in the oven or microwave.

FAQs

Do I need to peel my apples?

Peeling the apples is optional and largely depends on personal preference. Leaving the skin on provides additional fiber and nutrients, and some people prefer the added texture.

However, peeled apples offer a smoother, more uniform texture in the finished pie. Either way, the pie will be delicious, so you can choose based on your own taste preferences.

Can I make a vegan version of this apple pie?

Yes, you can easily make a vegan version of this crustless apple pie. Substitute the butter in the recipe with a plant-based butter or coconut oil.

Can Swedish apple pie be frozen?

Of course! You can freeze it for longer storage. After the pie has completely cooled, wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap and then place it in a resealable freezer bag. You can store it in the freezer for up to three months.

When you’re ready to eat it, you can either thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or reheat it directly from the freezer in a preheated oven. This makes it a convenient make-ahead dessert option.

Can I add nuts?

Yes, you can definitely add nuts for extra texture and flavor. Walnuts or pecans would be great choices. Just chop them up and mix them in with the apple filling or sprinkle them over the top before baking. Make sure to consider any nut allergies among those who will be enjoying the pie.

More Fall Dessert Recipes to Try

If you are looking for good dessert recipes that doesn’t require much time and effort, try these ones below;

• Pumpkin Pie Crunch
• No Corn Syrup Pecan Pie Recipe
• Apple Cinnamon Bundt Cake
• Moist Pumpkin Bundt Cake with Maple Cream Cheese Glaze

This recipe was originally published on February 1, 2019. Updated and republished for more information and accuracy.