Chai Apple Pie

Cook Time: 35 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 cups apple juice
• 2 chai tea bags
• 2 pounds Honeycrisp apples
• 1 medium lemon, juiced
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• teaspoon ground cloves
• teaspoon ground cardamom
• 2 pinches ground black pepper, or more to taste
• cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 2 (9 inch) frozen pie crusts, thawed
• 1 large egg, beaten

Directions

1. Heat apple juice in a microwave-safe bowl for 30-second intervals until warm, but not boiling. Add the chai tea bags, cover, and let steep for 10 minutes. Discard tea bags.
2. Meanwhile, peel, seed, and chop the apples. Toss them in a bowl with lemon juice to prevent browning.
3. In a small bowl, combine the cinnamon, ginger, cloves, cardamom, and black pepper.
4. In a large pot, combine the apples, the apple juice-chai tea mixture, the cinnamon-spice mixture, brown sugar, butter, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the apples soften (about 30 minutes).
5. Transfer cup of the apple liquid from the pot to a small bowl. Add cornstarch and whisk until completely dissolved. Stir this mixture back into the pot. Continue cooking over medium heat, stirring often, until the mixture thickens (about 5 minutes).
6. Pour the filling into a bowl and set aside to cool for about 1 hour.
7. Preheat the oven to 425F (220C).
8. Pour the cooled apple filling into one pie crust. Press the remaining pie crust over the filling and flute the edges to seal or use a fork dipped in the beaten egg to press them down.
9. Brush the top of the pie with the remaining beaten egg, then cut several slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape. Cover the edges of the pie with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
10. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Gently remove the foil and continue baking until golden and bubbly, about 15 minutes more.
11. Allow the pie to cool until warm, but not hot, before serving.

Cook's Note

Add extra apples for a deep-dish pie.

If using refrigerated pie dough, roll it out to fit your pie dish and cut decorative latticework or shapes for the top crust. Frozen aluminum pie crusts can also be used for convenience.

Chai spice originated in India, and the blend used here was created by my friend Armani, who hails from New Delhi, India, but currently resides in Dallas, Texas.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 425
• Fat: 19g (24% Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 6g (29% Daily Value)
• Cholesterol: 31mg (10% Daily Value)
• Sodium: 324mg (14% Daily Value)
• Total Carbohydrates: 63g (23% Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 6g (20% Daily Value)
• Total Sugars: 34g
• Protein: 4g (8% Daily Value)
• Vitamin C: 16mg (17% Daily Value)
• Calcium: 51mg (4% Daily Value)
• Iron: 2mg (12% Daily Value)
• Potassium: 287mg (6% Daily Value)

Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Chai Apple Pie combines the warmth and depth of traditional apple pie with the aromatic spiciness of chai, creating a dessert thats perfect for any fall or winter gathering. This fusion of American and Indian flavors has gained popularity as a comforting, yet exotic variation on the classic apple pie. Below, we dive into the history, regional variations, and unique qualities of this delicious dessert.

History and Origins

Chai tea, with its roots in India, has been enjoyed for centuries. The word "chai" simply means "tea" in Hindi, but when referring to "chai tea," it typically refers to a spiced milk tea blend made with black tea, cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, cloves, and black pepper. The concept of incorporating chai spices into food, such as pies, emerged as a way to enhance the warm, comforting flavors associated with the spice mix.

Apple pie, on the other hand, is deeply ingrained in American culinary tradition, often symbolizing home, family, and the harvest season. The idea of combining these two distinct elementsspicy chai and sweet appleswas born out of a desire to elevate the classic pie with a bold, aromatic twist. This pie celebrates the fusion of Indian and American culinary traditions, making it a unique treat that speaks to the blending of cultures in the modern kitchen.

Regional Variations

The most notable feature of Chai Apple Pie is the chai spice blend, which can vary depending on regional preferences. In India, the spices used in chai tea can differ based on the region and personal taste. While the most common chai spices include cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, cloves, and black pepper, some variations also feature fennel, star anise, or nutmeg. In the United States, the addition of chai spices to apple pie offers a bold contrast to the typically mild, cinnamon-only spice blend used in traditional apple pies.

Chai Apple Pie also offers a variation in texture compared to its traditional counterpart. The apple filling, infused with chai spices and apple juice, has a more complex flavor profile, while the use of brown sugar and maple syrup adds richness and depth. The pie's aromatic spices distinguish it from the familiar, simpler apple pie filling.

What Sets It Apart from Other Pies

While there are many apple pie variationssuch as Dutch apple pie, caramel apple pie, or the classic American apple piewhat truly makes Chai Apple Pie unique is the infusion of chai spices. These spices provide a deeper, spicier kick compared to the cinnamon-heavy profiles commonly found in traditional apple pies. The chai blend adds complexity with the peppery undertones of cardamom and the warmth of ginger and cloves, making this pie a stand-out at holiday tables and special occasions.

In comparison to other spiced pies like pumpkin pie or sweet potato pie, Chai Apple Pie is much fruitier and lighter in texture, yet the spices provide a similar warmth and richness that makes it perfect for cozy gatherings.

Where Is It Usually Served?

Chai Apple Pie is typically served during festive occasions, especially in the fall and winter months. Its a popular dessert for Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners, offering a unique alternative to the traditional pumpkin or pecan pies. Its comforting flavors also make it a favorite for cozy gatherings with friends and family, especially when paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

Due to its fusion of flavors, this pie has also found a place in cafes and bakeries that offer seasonal specialties. Its the perfect dessert to accompany a warm chai latte or spiced coffee, further enhancing the sensory experience of the spices used in both the drink and the pie.

Interesting Facts

• The chai spice blend used in Chai Apple Pie can vary depending on the baker's taste or regional influences. Some people prefer a more intense flavor with extra cardamom or pepper, while others might tone it down with more cinnamon.
• Honeycrisp apples are often the go-to variety for this pie due to their balance of sweet and tart flavors, but other apple varieties such as Granny Smith or Fuji can be used for different flavor profiles.
• Chai Apple Pie is not only a dessert but also a conversation starter, blending two culinary traditionsIndian and Americanin a way that resonates with diverse cultural experiences.

Chai Apple Pie is a perfect example of how traditional recipes can evolve by incorporating bold, new flavors. Whether you're baking it for a special occasion or simply to enjoy a cozy night at home, this pie offers a delightful fusion of warmth, spice, and sweetness.

FAQ about Chai Apple Pie

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