Hillbilly Pie (Poor Man's Pie)


  • 4–5 medium apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or any baking apple), peeled, cored, and sliced
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • Optional: 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg or a splash of vanilla extract for extra flavor
  • 1–2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (to thicken the filling)

For the Dough:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
  • 3/4 cup milk (or buttermilk for extra richness)

Optional Toppings:

  • Whipped cream
  • Vanilla ice cream
  • A sprinkle of powdered sugar

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Prep

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish or a deep pie pan.

2. Make the Filling

  1. In a large mixing bowl, toss the sliced apples with sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and flour until evenly coated.
  2. Spread the apple mixture evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.

3. Prepare the Dough

  1. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
  2. Cut in the cold, cubed butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  3. Gradually stir in the milk until the dough comes together—it should be soft and slightly sticky.

4. Assemble the Pie

  1. Drop spoonfuls of the dough over the apple filling, spreading gently to cover as much of the surface as possible. Don’t worry about making it perfect—it’s meant to look rustic!
  2. Optional: Sprinkle a little extra sugar or cinnamon over the top for added sweetness and flavor.

5. Bake

  1. Bake in the preheated oven for 35–45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apple filling is bubbling.
  2. If the top starts to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil.

6. Serve and Enjoy

  1. Let the pie cool slightly before serving.
  2. Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent touch.

Tips for Success

  • Choose the Right Apples: Use a mix of sweet and tart apples for a balanced flavor.
  • Add Extras: Stir in raisins, nuts, or a splash of lemon juice for added depth.
  • Make It Gluten-Free: Substitute the flour with a gluten-free blend for a GF version.
  • Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for longer storage.

Why This Recipe Works

This Hillbilly Pie combines the simplicity of a cobbler-like topping with the warmth of spiced apples, creating a dessert that’s both satisfying and nostalgic. The dough bakes up soft and slightly crispy, while the apple filling becomes tender and caramelized. Whether served warm with ice cream or enjoyed plain, this pie delivers big on comfort and flavor.

Conclusion: A Taste of Simplicity

Whether you’re craving a cozy dessert, looking for a way to use up pantry staples, or simply want to enjoy a slice of old-fashioned goodness, this Hillbilly Pie is sure to delight. Its humble ingredients, rustic appearance, and comforting flavors make it a standout treat that’s as practical as it is delicious. Plus, its versatility means you can adapt it to suit any taste or occasion.

We’d love to see your creations! Tag us in your photos or share your favorite variations—your take on this Poor Man’s Pie might just inspire others to try it too! 🍂✨


 

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