Apple pie is one of the most classic American desserts, and it’s a staple for many families during the holidays. However, for some, cinnamon may not be a preferred ingredient.
This doesn’t mean you can’t still enjoy a delicious apple pie, though!
In case you were wondering how to make an apple pie without cinnamon, here are some recipes for a mouth-watering apple pie that omits the use of it.
How Much Cinnamon Is Normally Used in Apple Pie?
Cinnamon is a popular spice used in many apple pie recipes, as it complements the sweetness of the apples and gives the pie a warm and cozy flavor.
However, the amount of cinnamon used can substantially vary, depending on personal preference. On average, most recipes call for 1-2 teaspoons of cinnamon.
Cinnamon Substitutes in Apple Pie
If you don’t like the taste of cinnamon or don’t have it at home, there are many spices and flavors you can use to substitute it in an apple pie. Those include:
1 – Nutmeg
Nutmeg has a gentle, sweet spiciness that enhances the flavor of apples, without overpowering them.
Consider trying recipes that use nutmeg in small amounts. You can also adjust the quantity to your liking by tasting the filling before adding more.
2 – ACV, Maple Syrup, and Fresh Ginger
Yes, you read it right! All three ingredients would make great additions to your apple pie.
Apple cider vinegar, also known as ACV, will add a slightly tart flavor. Maple syrup will bring out the sweetness of the apples, and fresh ginger will add a hint of spicy warmth.
3 – Lemon Juice and Lemon Zest
Lemon can significantly boost the flavor of an apple pie.
While you might already squeeze lemon on sliced apples to prevent browning, the citrusy acid will also bring out the flavor and sweetness of the apples.
Besides that, we recommend adding a teaspoon of finely grated lemon zest to the apple filling.
4 – Raisins
The unknown soldier. Raisins have a subtle, sweet wine flavor that pairs so well with apples; making it a guilty, but rather delicious pleasure.
Plus, soaking raisins in rum before adding them to the pie will provide another layer of flavor that doesn’t depend on cinnamon.
5 – Alternative Spices
Vanilla extract, allspice, and clove are other great options that complement the sweet and tart flavors of the apples.
Pumpkin pie spice, which is a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and allspice, could also be an enjoyable addition to your tart!
Experiment with these different spices and flavorings until you find the perfect combination for your taste preferences.
3 Recipes for an Apple Pie Without Cinnamon
First Pie: Classics
This is a classic apple pie recipe without the noisy cinnamon interfering.
Ingredients List
- 2 lbs. apples (Granny Smith recommended)
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp nutmeg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 pie crusts (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Prepare the apples: Peel and thinly slice 2 lbs. of apples. In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples with ½ tsp nutmeg, ¼ cup of cornstarch, 2 tbsp of lemon juice, ½ tsp of nutmeg, and 1 tsp of vanilla extract.
Mix everything until the apples are coated thoroughly.
- Assemble the pie: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out one of the pie crusts into a 9-inch pie dish. Fill the crust with the apple mixture, spreading it out evenly.
Flatten the other pie crust and position it on the apple mixture. Use a sharp knife (or scissors) to cut slits into the top of the pie. This allows steam to escape.
- Bake the pie: Brush the top of the pie with a beaten egg to give it a golden-brown finish. Bake the pie for 50 to 60 minutes or until the filling is soft and the crust is golden brown.
Quick pie tip:
Give the pie at least 30 minutes to cool down before slicing and serving.
Second Pie: All Good with Allspice
This recipe has the perfect balance of allspice and nutmeg.
Ingredients List
- Pie crust dough for a double-crust pie
- 7 cups thinly sliced apples
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp allspice
- 1 tsp nutmeg
- 1 tsp grated lemon zest
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
Instructions
Prepare the sliced apples, sugar, flour, allspice, nutmeg, and lemon juice in a large mixing bowl. Then, follow steps two and three provided in the previous recipe.
Third Pie: Raisins-Rum Haven
Now it’s time for the final and ultimate apple pie!
Ingredients List
- Pie crust dough for a double-crust pie
- 7 cups thinly sliced apples
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1/4 cup dark rum
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
Instructions
- Soak the raisins for thirty minutes
- Combine your ingredients in a mixing bowl
- Apply the second and third steps of the first pie recipe
Final Thoughts
And that’s how to make an apple pie without cinnamon! These delicious apple pie recipes are great alternatives for those who don’t like the taste of cinnamon, or feel like trying something new.
The nutmeg, lemon zest, and rum-soaked raisins not only substitute the cinnamon, but also add a unique twist to the classic apple pie.
Whether you’re serving this pie as a dessert or a snack, it’s sure to be a hit with everyone. So, prepare your apples. Forget the cinnamon. Preheat the oven—and bring it on!
Sarah is the founder of Baking Kneads, LLC, a blog sharing guides, tips, and recipes for those learning how to bake. Growing up as the daughter of a baker, she spent much of her childhood learning the basics in a local bakery.