Do you love the taste of freshly baked apple pie but don’t have access to an oven? Don’t worry – there are still plenty of ways to indulge in this classic dessert.
In this blog post, we’ll understand five alternative methods on how to make apple pie without an oven. From stovetop baking and slow cooker methods to other approaches, we’ve got you covered.
Read on and learn how well these methods will make your apple pie as good as in your typical oven.
Apple Pie Ingredients
In general, the ingredients in making an apple pie are all the same across all baking methods.
These include:
- Pie crust (made with flour, butter, salt, and water)
- Apples (sliced)
- Sugar (granulated or brown)
- Cinnamon
- Nutmeg
- Lemon juice (optional)
- Cornstarch (optional)
5 Alternative Ways of Making an Apple Pie Without an Oven
Plenty of alternative methods for baking this classic dessert don’t require any oven space. These different ways to make apple pie are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Stovetop Apple Pie
This method is quick and easy, requiring only a few basic ingredients and a stovetop. This is a great option for when you want to whip up a delicious apple pie in a hurry.
- Prepare a large, deep skillet or pot with a lid. Place it on the stovetop over medium-high heat.
- On the bottom of the skillet or pot, add a layer of sliced apples.
- Sprinkle the apples with a mixture of cinnamon, sugar, and cornstarch.
- Add another layer of sliced apples on top. Repeat step number 3.
- Add a small amount of water.
- Cook the apples for 10-15 minutes until they start to soften.
- Meanwhile, prepare a crust of your choice.
- When the apples have softened, place the crust on the filling.
- Replace the cover. Cook for another 20-30 minutes. Check until the crust is golden brown and the apples are tender.
The crust of the apple pie in this process may not brown evenly. Moreover, the filling may not cook equally as in other methods.
Slow Cooker Apple Pie
With this method, you can set it and forget it!
- Peel and slice 6-7 cups of apples.
- In a small bowl, mix together ½ cup of sugar, ½ tsp of cinnamon, and ¼ tsp of nutmeg.
- Grease the inside of the slow cooker.
- Place one pre-made pie crust on the bottom.
- Add the sliced apples to the slow cooker. Sprinkle the sugar and spice mixture on top.
- Cut 2 tablespoons of butter into small pieces and scatter them on top of the apples.
- Cover the slow cooker. Cook on high for 2-3 hours or on low for 4-5 hours.
- Once the apples are tender, place the second pre-made pie crust on top. Then press the edges together with the bottom crust.
- Cut a few slits on top of the crust to allow steam to escape.
- Continue cooking on high for 1-2 hours or until the crust is golden brown. Check also if the apples are cooked.
- Turn off the heat and let the pie cool for at least 30 minutes before serving. Indulge yourself!
Slow cooker apple pie produces a moist and tender crust with a soft filling. But the crust may become soggy, and the pie may lack the crispy texture of oven-baked pies.
Dutch Oven Apple Pie
This method is perfect for camping or outdoor cooking. It allows you to bake a delicious apple pie over an open flame.
- Prepare the Dutch oven by heating it over medium heat.
- Roll out one of the pie crusts and place it in the bottom of the Dutch oven.
- Mix together in a bowl the sliced apples, sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
- Pour the apple mixture into the Dutch oven over the pie crust.
- Cut the butter into small pieces and scatter them over the top of the apples.
- Roll out the second pie crust and place it on top of the apples.
- Brush the top of the pie crust with the beaten egg and sprinkle the coarse sugar over it.
- Cover the Dutch oven and place it over low heat on the stovetop.
- Cook the pie for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the apples are tender.
- Remove the Dutch oven from the heat and let the pie cool for a few minutes before serving.
Dutch oven apple pie results in a crispy, fairly browned crust with a tender filling. It’s a great choice for outdoor or indoor cooking.
Campfire Apple Pie
Dutch Oven Apple Pie and Campfire Apple Pie are similar because they both involve using a Dutch oven. But the methods and techniques may differ.
The former is typically done in a kitchen or outdoor setting with access to a stove or oven. With the latter, it’s done over an open flame while camping or in a wilderness setting.
Campfire apple pie produces a rustic and smoky flavor. Perfect for outdoor gatherings!
Microwave Apple Pie
- Prepare the pie filling and the crust as you normally would.
- Place the bottom crust in a microwave-safe pie dish and fill it with the apple filling.
- Cover the filling with the top crust and seal the edges.
- Use a fork to poke several holes in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
- Microwave the pie on high for 10-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is heated through.
- Let the pie cool for a few minutes before serving.
The microwave method may produce a soft and tender crust. With a slight difference in taste compared to oven-baked pies.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, there are several ways to make apple pie without an oven. Each method offers unique advantages and disadvantages.
The final result will differ in taste, appearance, and texture.
In the end, it’s up to you to decide which method suits your preferences and cooking style. With these alternatives, you can still enjoy a delicious apple pie without an oven—no matter where you are or what equipment you have on hand.
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.