| Prep: 30 mins | Cook: 45 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 316 | 10g | 4.5g | 55g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 35g | 4g | 2.5g | 0.2g |
I’ve always had a soft spot for dishes that are a genuine mix of both tradition and trend. This Vietnamese Cinnamon Apple Pie recipe is a splendid example of just such a combination. At first glance, it seems to be a classic American dessert, reminiscent of the apple pies my ranching family would enjoy after a long, hard day’s work. However, the unexpected twist of Vietnamese cinnamon breathes new life into this timeless treat, marrying the familiar with the exotic in a fusion of flavors.
Crafting a Delightful Fusion
As a child in Montana, pies were part of our culinary tradition. While my roots push me towards huckleberry pies, introducing Vietnamese cinnamon to the classic apple pie recipe gives an exciting twist. Vietnamese cinnamon has a unique sweetness compared to regular cinnamon, adding depth and aroma that’s quite delightful to the palette.
This is a dessert that pairs well with a range of dishes. Whether it’s following a hearty bison burger or a savory venison steak, the Vietnamese Cinnamon Apple Pie is a crowd-pleaser. Don’t let the exotic element intimidate you – this recipe is simpler to prepare than you might think.
Finding More Than Just Flavor
While the symphony of flavors is the star of this delicious dessert, there’s a little more to love than just the taste. Not only does this Vietnamese Cinnamon Apple Pie offer a delicious twist on an American classic, but it also brings with it a variety of health benefits. The apples are a great source of dietary fiber and Vitamin C, while cinnamon, a spice used for thousands of years for its medicinal properties, can help manage blood sugar levels and has anti-inflammatory properties. (See more on the health benefits of cinnamon here).
Savoring a slice of this pie feels like a trip down memory lane, a moment of comfort and a symphony of flavors, all in the same bite. It’s the kind of pie that modestly steals the show at any gathering, never failing to earn praise from both children and gourmands alike. In the end, it’s the nostalgia, the health benefits, and the exotic fusion that makes me love this recipe for Vietnamese Cinnamon Apple Pie.
What You’ll Need
- 2 tablespoons Vietnamese cinnamon
- 5 large apples, peeled and sliced
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Pinch of salt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 premade pie crust
- 1 egg, beaten
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cubed
- 1 tablespoon coarse sugar for topping
Method
Step One
Preheat your oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C). Then, set out a pie plate with the premade pie crust laid into it, crimping the edges as desired.
Step Two
Next, peel the apples and slice them into thin pieces. In a large bowl, combine these apple slices with the Vietnamese cinnamon, sugar, all-purpose flour, pinch of salt, and lemon juice. Toss until the apples are fully coated in the mixture.
Step Three
Put the coated apple slices into the pie crust, evenly distributing them to cover the base. Then, dot the surface of the apples with the cubed unsalted butter.
Step Four
Beat the egg in a small bowl. Use a pastry brush to coat the edges of the pie crust with the egg. This will help the crust achieve a golden-brown finish while baking.
Step Five
Sprinkle coarse sugar over both the apple filling and the crust. This will give added crunch and sweetness. Put the pie into the oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the apples are bubbling.
Step Six
Remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool for at least 2 hours before serving. This will allow the filling to set. After that, your Vietnamese Cinnamon Apple Pie is ready to be cut and served! Enjoy!
