Have you ever wondered if you could enjoy the same delicious taste of apple pie without using any apples at all? We have a recipe that will challenge your beliefs and leave you amazed. Introducing the Mock Apple Pie Ritz Cracker Recipe – a delightful twist on a classic dessert.
With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a pie that tastes like apples but doesn’t actually contain any. Intriguing, isn’t it? So, how exactly is this possible? How can Ritz crackers mimic the taste and texture of real apples?
Get ready to uncover the secret behind this unique recipe and indulge in a slice of mock apple pie that will leave your taste buds guessing. Let’s dive in and explore the fascinating world of mock apple pie!
A History of Mock Apple Pie
Mock apple pie has an intriguing history that dates back to the Great Depression. It was invented by Nabisco as a clever solution to create a pie that tasted like apple pie when apples were scarce. The ingenious recipe relied on a surprising ingredient: Ritz crackers. Alongside lemon juice, sugar, and cinnamon, the unique combination of Ritz crackers perfectly mimicked the texture and flavor of traditional apple pie.
During the Second World War, Nabisco began printing the Ritz mock apple pie recipe on their packages, allowing families to enjoy the comforting taste of apple pie, even during times of rationing. This popularization further solidified the association between Ritz crackers and mock apple pie. However, mock apple pie recipes using soda crackers or saltines instead of apples have been around since the 19th century, showcasing the enduring appeal of this apple-deception dessert.
Ingredients and Preparation
When it comes to creating a delicious mock apple pie, it’s important to have the right ingredients on hand. To make this mouthwatering dessert, gather the following:
- Water
- Sugar
- Cream of tartar
- Ritz crackers
- Lemon juice
- Cinnamon
- Unsalted butter
- Ready-to-use refrigerated pie crust
Once you have all the ingredients ready, it’s time to start preparing the mock apple pie filling. Here’s the step-by-step process:
- In a saucepan, combine water, sugar, and cream of tartar. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring until the sugar has dissolved.
- Reduce the heat to low and add the Ritz crackers to the pan. Allow them to simmer in the syrup for a few minutes until they soften and absorb the flavors.
- Meanwhile, take your pie crust and line a pie plate with it.
- Pour the Ritz cracker filling into the pie crust, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle lemon juice and cinnamon over the filling, enhancing the apple-like flavor.
Now, let’s move on to the tasty topping that adds an irresistible crunch to the pie. Here’s what you need to do:
- Take a handful of Ritz crackers and crush them until they resemble coarse crumbs.
- In a bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers with brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter. Mix well to create a crumbly texture.
- Sprinkle the crumb topping over the mock apple pie filling, covering it evenly.
With the pie fully prepared, it’s time to bake it to perfection. Preheat your oven to 400ºF (200ºC) and follow these steps:
- Place the pie in the oven and bake at 400ºF (200ºC) for about 10 minutes.
- Reduce the oven temperature to 350ºF (180ºC) and continue baking for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the filling sets and the crust turns golden brown.
Once the mock apple pie is baked to perfection, allow it to cool for a bit before serving. Then, slice it up and savor the deliciousness!
The Illusion of Apples
The interesting aspect of this mock apple pie recipe is that the filling creates an illusion of apples. When the Ritz crackers are simmered in the sugar syrup, they soften and mimic the texture of cooked apples. The addition of lemon juice and cinnamon enhances the apple-like flavor. The cracker shape is preserved to further deceive the palate. The filling is poured onto the pie crust and topped with a mixture of crushed Ritz crackers, brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter, adding a crunchy texture to the pie.
By using Ritz crackers as the primary ingredient for the filling, this recipe ingeniously replicates the taste and texture of apple pie. The crackers absorb the flavors of the sugar syrup, taking on a soft and tender consistency that closely resembles cooked apples. The addition of lemon juice and cinnamon further enhances the illusion, creating a satisfying apple-like flavor in every bite.
The preserved cracker shape adds to the deception, ensuring that each slice of the pie resembles a traditional apple pie, both visually and in terms of texture. As you take a bite, your taste buds will be treated to the familiar combination of sweet and spicy flavors that are characteristic of apple desserts. The buttery and crunchy topping made with crushed Ritz crackers, brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter provides a delightful contrast to the soft and smooth filling.
This mock apple pie illusion is not only a clever twist on a classic recipe but also a testament to the versatility of Ritz crackers. It showcases how a humble cracker can be transformed into a convincing apple pie filling, making it a perfect option for those seeking a unique and delicious dessert.
Serving and Enjoying the Mock Apple Pie
Once the mock apple pie is baked and the filling has set, it is important to allow it to cool before serving. This will ensure that the flavors have melded together and the pie has reached the desired consistency. The anticipation builds as the warm aroma of cinnamon and sweet goodness fills the air.
When it’s time to serve, you have options. The pie can be enjoyed while still warm, with a flaky crust that crumbles in your mouth. The contrast of the warm filling and the cold ice cream creates a delightful sensation. Alternatively, you can let the pie cool to room temperature, allowing the flavors to intensify. The pie can be served as a centerpiece to your dessert spread, creating an irresistible temptation for all who pass by.
Indulge yourself by serving a generous slice of mock apple pie, complemented by a scoop of smooth vanilla ice cream or a dollop of fluffy whipped cream. The creamy addition adds a luscious touch, balancing the tangy sweetness of the “apple” filling with its velvety texture. Each bite reveals a symphony of flavors, from the subtle tartness of the lemon-infused Ritz crackers to the warm embrace of cinnamon.
As you savor each mouthful of this delicious dessert, the combination of the buttery crust and the aromatic filling will transport you to a state of pure bliss. Whether served at a family gathering or a cozy evening at home, this mock apple pie is a scrumptious treat that will leave you craving for more.