Gluten-Free Apple Pumpkin Crisp Pie

As the leaves change and the air turns crisp, nothing says autumn quite like a delicious slice of Gluten-Free Apple Pumpkin Crisp Pie. This stunning fall dessert combines the flavors of fresh apples and creamy pumpkin spiced with warm cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg topped with a crunchy walnut crisp. Not only is it gluten-free, but it’s also a great way to enjoy seasonal fruit.

Pumpkin: Fruit or Vegetable?

Pumpkin is technically a fruit! More specifically, it’s classified as a berry because it develops from the flowering part of the plant and contains seeds. While many people think of pumpkins as vegetables due to their savory uses in cooking, botanically, they fall into the fruit category.

Ease of Making

This dessert is relatively easy to make, even for novice bakers. The steps are straightforward, and you can prepare it in less than an hour (plus cooling time).

3 Easy Steps: Gluten-Free Apple Pumpkin Crisp Pie Recipe (detailed recipe in recipe card)

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, mix sliced apples with cinnamon. Transfer to a buttered pie pan, dot with small cubes of butter, cover with foil, and bake for 20 minutes.

Step 2: Make the Filling and Topping

While the apples bake, whisk together the filling ingredients. In a separate bowl, mix gluten-free flour and salt. Cut in cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, then stir in toasted walnuts.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

Pour the filling over the baked apples, then sprinkle the walnut topping evenly on top with a drizzle of maple syrup. Bake for 35-40 minutes until golden brown. Cool for 2 hours, then refrigerate until set, about 4 hours or overnight.

Key Ingredients

Using fresh, in-season apples and pumpkins not only enhances the flavor but also maximizes nutritional benefits. Fall is the perfect time for this recipe, making this dessert a celebration of the season. 

1. Apples: Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples provide the perfect tartness.
2. Pumpkin Puree: Homemade or canned, it’s a rich source of vitamins and flavor.
3. Walnuts: Packed with healthy fats and provide a tasty crunch.
4. Maple Syrup: A natural sweetener that enhances flavor while keeping it wholesome.

Health Benefits

This dessert isn’t just a sweet treat, it also offers several health benefits:

• Pumpkin: Rich in vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants.
• Apples: High in fiber and vitamin C, they support heart health and digestion.
• Walnuts: A great source of omega-3 fatty acids, promoting brain health.

Natural Sweetness

This pie is made without processed sugar, using pure maple syrup instead, making it a healthier alternative to many traditional desserts.

In fact, each slice of the Gluten-Free Apple Pumpkin Crisp Pie contains approximately 11.5g of sugar, compared to about 28g of sugar in a typical pumpkin pie slice. This significant difference makes it a better choice for those looking to reduce their sugar intake while still enjoying a delicious dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid when Making Gluten-Free Apple Pumpkin Crisp Pie

Overbaking the Apples: Make sure to bake the apple base for just 20 minutes to soften them without turning them mushy.

Skipping the Chilling Time: Allow the pie to chill for at least 4 hours. This helps it set properly.

Not Toasting the Walnuts: Toasting the walnuts before adding them to the topping makes them tastier and crispy.

Neglecting to Measure Ingredients Accurately: Gluten-free baking is a science, and precise measurements are crucial for the best results.

Toasting Walnuts

Start by preheating a dry skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the walnuts in a single layer, ensuring they don’t overcrowd the pan. Stir them frequently for about 4 – 5 minutes, or until they become fragrant and lightly golden. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning, as they can go from perfectly toasted to charred quickly.

Substitutions

• Apples: You can substitute with pears or a mix of both for a unique flavor.
• Pumpkin Puree: Sweet potato puree is a tasty alternative. Check out our Jamaican Sweet Potato Pie.
• Nuts: If you’re allergic to walnuts, try pecans or almonds for the topping.
• Dairy: Use coconut milk or almond milk instead of regular milk for a dairy-free version. And replace butter with vegan soy-free butter such as Earth Balance.

Serving Ideas

This pie is most delicious served chilled because it has a firmer texture and tastes refreshing. However, you can also serve it at room temperature. Here are a few ideas:

With Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or dairy-free ice cream on top makes for an indulgent dessert.

Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream or coconut whipped cream adds a satisfying creamy topping.

Powdered Sugar: Sprinkle a little extra on top for added sweetness and making the dessert look pretty.

Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Cover the pie with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container to maintain freshness.

More Gluten-Free Pies to Explore

Gluten-Free Crust Free Apple Pie

Grain-Free Dairy-Free Pumpkin Pie

Gluten Free Peach & Strawberry Crumb Pie

Gluten-Free Coconut Lemon Custard Pie

Gluten Free Chocolate Pecan Pie

Gluten Free Lemon Chess Pie

Recipe Review: Gluten-Free Apple Pumpkin Crisp Pie

This Gluten-Free Apple Pumpkin Crisp Pie is a fusion of flavors and textures. The tartness of the apples pairs beautifully with the rich pumpkin filling, while the walnut topping adds a satisfying crunch. It’s a wholesome dessert that captures the essence of fall, making it perfect for holidays or a cozy night in.