Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with a dessert that breaks all the rules and redefines pie perfection! This isn't just another apple pie - it's a culinary masterpiece that marries the rich, complex flavors of port wine with the sharp tang of cheddar cheese. Imagine a golden, flaky crust studded with melted cheese, cradling tender, wine-soaked apples that promise to transport you to dessert heaven with every single bite. Whether you're a pie enthusiast or a culinary adventurer, this recipe will revolutionize your dessert game and leave your guests absolutely speechless.
Prep Time: 25 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 6 cups sliced apples
- 1/2 cup port wine
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 2 cups flour
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cold butter
- 1/4 cup ice water
Instructions
- Prepare the apple filling by combining sliced apples, port wine, sugar, lemon juice, and cinnamon in a large mixing bowl. Gently toss until apples are evenly coated and let sit for 15 minutes to macerate.
- For the cheddar cheese crust, mix flour and shredded cheddar cheese in a large bowl. Cut cold butter into small cubes and work into the flour mixture using a pastry cutter or your fingertips until the texture resembles coarse breadcrumbs.
- Gradually add ice water to the flour mixture, stirring until the dough begins to come together. Divide the dough into two equal portions, one for the bottom crust and one for the top.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the bottom crust on a floured surface and carefully transfer to a 9-inch pie dish, trimming excess dough around the edges.
- Drain excess liquid from the apple mixture and spread the filling evenly into the prepared pie crust. The port wine liquid can be reserved for extra flavor if desired.
- Roll out the top crust and place over the filling. Crimp the edges to seal, and cut several small vents to allow steam to escape.
- Brush the top crust with an egg wash (optional) to create a golden, glossy finish. Sprinkle additional shredded cheddar cheese on top if desired.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. If the edges brown too quickly, cover with aluminum foil.
- Remove from oven and let cool for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the filling to set and makes slicing easier.
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a sharp cheddar cheese slice for an extra indulgent dessert experience.
Tips
- Choose firm, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best texture and flavor balance.
- Make sure your butter is ice-cold when making the crust for maximum flakiness.
- Don't skip the maceration step - letting apples sit in port wine enhances their flavor dramatically.
- Use a sharp cheddar cheese for the crust to add a bold, tangy dimension.
- If the pie edges brown too quickly, create a foil ring to protect them during baking.
- Let the pie rest for at least 30 minutes after baking to allow the filling to set properly.
- For an extra indulgent touch, serve with vanilla ice cream or a slice of sharp cheddar cheese.
- The reserved port wine liquid can be reduced into a syrup for an additional flavor drizzle.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 52g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Cholesterol: 50mg
