If you’re on the hunt for a dessert that captures all the warm, comforting flavors of a classic treat in a fun and shareable way, you’ve found it with this Apple Pie Dip Recipe. This delightful concoction brings together the sweet and spiced essence of apple pie filling into a luscious, creamy dip that’s perfect for scooping with cinnamon-sugar coated tortilla chips. It’s a game changer for holiday gatherings, cozy nights in, or whenever you crave that nostalgic apple pie taste without the fuss of baking a whole pie.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Apple Pie Dip Recipe lies in its simple, approachable ingredients, each contributing to a vibrant flavor and irresistible texture. From the sweetness of brown sugar to the tart brightness of lemon juice, every element has a purpose that makes this dip shine.
- Brown sugar: Adds rich molasses notes and deep sweetness essential for that classic apple pie flavor.
- Granulated sugar: Enhances sweetness and helps balance the tartness of the apples.
- Ground cinnamon: Brings warm spice that’s key to apple pie’s signature taste.
- Lemon juice: Lifts the flavor and prevents the apples from browning.
- Water: Helps cook the apples down into a saucy consistency.
- Apples (peeled, cored, chopped): The star of the dish, providing texture and fresh fruit flavor; Granny Smith or Fuji work beautifully.
- Cornstarch: Thickens the mixture to the perfect dip-able consistency without any grittiness.
- Flour tortillas: Used for the delicious chips, delivering a crispy and slightly chewy contrast to the creamy dip.
- Additional granulated sugar and cinnamon: For coating the tortilla chips, giving a sweet-spiced crunch.
- Non-stick cooking spray: To ensure your tortilla chips crisp up perfectly without sticking.
How to Make Apple Pie Dip Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Apple Pie Filling
Start by combining the brown sugar, 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, lemon juice, and water in a medium saucepan. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally to blend the flavors. Next, add the peeled, cored, and chopped apples, stirring to coat them evenly in the spiced sugar syrup. Cook this mixture for about 10 minutes until the apples soften but still hold some bite, allowing their natural sweetness to meld with the cinnamon and sugar.
Step 2: Thicken the Dip
In a small bowl, whisk the cornstarch with a spoonful of cold water until smooth to avoid lumps. Slowly stir this slurry into the simmering apple mixture. Continue cooking over low heat for another 5-7 minutes, stirring often, until the mixture thickens to that perfect jam-like dip consistency. Once thickened, remove it from the heat and let it cool to room temperature, which will help it set further before serving.
Step 3: Make the Cinnamon-Sugar Tortilla Chips
While the apple dip cools, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray flour tortillas with non-stick cooking spray, then sprinkle generously with the mixture of 1/3 cup granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon. Cut each tortilla into 6 wedges and arrange them in a single layer on baking sheets. Bake for about 8-12 minutes or until crispy and golden, flipping halfway to ensure even baking. These chips offer a crispy, sweet contrast to the creamy dip.
How to Serve Apple Pie Dip Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch, sprinkle your Apple Pie Dip Recipe with chopped toasted pecans or walnuts to add crunch and nutty depth. A dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce can also elevate the flavor and lend a dessert-like feel to your serving. Fresh mint leaves add a colorful, fresh accent.
Side Dishes
This luscious dip pairs beautifully with simple sides like sliced fresh apples, graham crackers, or vanilla wafers. For a more substantial snack spread, include a selection of cheeses and crackers that complement the warm cinnamon and apple notes. Remember, the best sides are those that allow the dip to shine as the centerpiece of your snack table.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the Apple Pie Dip Recipe in a rustic pie dish or a clear glass bowl to showcase its rich texture and color. Arrange the cinnamon-sugar tortilla chips in a fan around the bowl or in a basket lined with a cheerful napkin. For parties, offer individual mini dip cups with chip assortments for easy, mess-free enjoyment.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover Apple Pie Dip Recipe should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can keep fresh for up to 4 days, and the flavors often deepen overnight, making it an even tastier treat the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze this dip for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and stir well before serving. Keep in mind the texture may change slightly after freezing, but the taste will remain delightful.
Reheating
Warm the dip gently in a saucepan over low heat until heated through, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking or burning. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring between each, until hot. Serve immediately with freshly made tortilla chips for best results.
FAQs
Can I use different types of apples for the dip?
Absolutely! Tart apples like Granny Smith add brightness, while sweeter varieties like Fuji or Honeycrisp bring extra natural sweetness. Using a mix can give your dip a balanced, complex flavor.
Is there a substitute for cornstarch in this Apple Pie Dip Recipe?
Yes, you can use arrowroot powder or tapioca starch as alternatives, maintaining the thick, smooth texture without altering the flavor.
Can this dip be made vegan?
Definitely. This recipe is naturally vegan as it uses plant-based ingredients. Just ensure your tortillas and any toppings you choose are vegan-friendly.
What can I use instead of flour tortillas for the chips?
For a gluten-free option, try corn tortillas or pita chips. They can be similarly coated with cinnamon and sugar and baked until crisp.
How long does the Apple Pie Dip Recipe last once made?
When refrigerated properly, the dip will remain fresh and delicious for up to 4 days, making it perfect for prepping ahead for your gatherings.
Final Thoughts
This Apple Pie Dip Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that brings the best qualities of a beloved dessert into a quick, fun, and utterly delicious dip. It’s the kind of recipe that sparks smiles and rounds up friends and family around the snack table. I promise once you try it, it’ll become a cherished favorite you’ll turn to again and again for cozy, sweet moments.
Print
Apple Pie Dip Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Apple Pie Dip is a warm and comforting dessert dip that combines tender cinnamon-spiced apples with a sweet cream cheese base and a crispy cinnamon-sugar tortilla chip accompaniment. Perfect for sharing, it brings all the flavors of classic apple pie in a fun, easy-to-prepare dip form.
Ingredients
Apple Pie Filling
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 cup water
- 3 large apples (peeled, cored, and chopped into 1/4-inch cubes)
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
Tortilla Chips
- 8 6-inch flour tortillas
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- non-stick cooking spray
Instructions
- Prepare the Apple Pie Filling: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, lemon juice, and water. Stir until sugars dissolve and mixture is smooth. Add the peeled and chopped apples, cooking and stirring occasionally for about 10 minutes until apples start to soften.
- Thicken the Filling: In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with a few tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Slowly add to the apple mixture, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Continue cooking for another 5-7 minutes until the filling thickens and apples are tender but still hold their shape. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Make Cinnamon Sugar Tortilla Chips: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray both sides of the tortillas lightly with non-stick cooking spray. Mix granulated sugar with cinnamon in a small bowl. Sprinkle the sugar-cinnamon mixture evenly on both sides of the tortillas.
- Cut and Bake the Chips: Cut each tortilla into 6 triangular wedges. Arrange the wedges in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden and crisp, turning once halfway through baking to ensure even crispiness. Remove and let cool.
- Serve: Spoon the warm apple pie filling into a serving bowl and serve with the cinnamon sugar tortilla chips for dipping. Enjoy the delightful combination of sweet, spiced apples and crunchy chips!
Notes
- You can substitute the tortillas with store-bought cinnamon chips or cinnamon sugar pita chips if desired.
- For a creamier dip, consider adding 4 oz of softened cream cheese mixed in with the apple pie filling before serving.
- If you prefer a thicker dip, increase the cornstarch to 4 tablespoons.
- Apples such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best for a balance of tartness and sweetness.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
