Apple Pie Baked Beans Recipe for a Sweet Twist

Apple pie and baked beans might seem like an unlikely duo, but when combined, they create a remarkable comfort food blend bursting with sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. This apple pie baked beans recipe takes the traditional baked beans to a whole new level by infusing the rich, warm spices and fruity notes reminiscent of a classic apple pie.

Imagine tender beans simmered slowly in a sauce of apples, cinnamon, and molasses, creating a delightful balance that’s both nostalgic and innovative.

This dish is perfect for cozy family dinners, potlucks, or even as a unique side at your next barbecue. Whether you’re a fan of sweet-savory combinations or just looking to spice up your bean game, this recipe is sure to impress.

Plus, it’s easy to make with pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients. Get ready to experience baked beans like never before!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This apple pie baked beans recipe is a true crowd-pleaser for several reasons. First, it combines the heartiness of traditional baked beans with the inviting warmth of apple pie spices, making it an unforgettable flavor experience.

The sweetness from the apples and brown sugar balances perfectly with the smoky, tangy undertones of molasses and mustard.

It’s also incredibly versatile; you can serve it alongside grilled veggies, smoked tofu, or your favorite vegan sausages. The recipe is designed to be simple and approachable, requiring minimal prep and ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.

Finally, this dish stores well and tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prepping or leftovers.

Ingredients

• 2 cups navy beans (soaked overnight and drained)
• 1 large apple, peeled, cored, and diced (preferably Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce
• 1/4 cup molasses
• 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 cups water or vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Equipment

• Large bowl (for soaking beans)
• Large saucepan or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board
• Colander (for draining beans)
• Oven-safe baking dish (optional, if finishing beans in oven)

Instructions

1. Soak the beans: Place the navy beans in a large bowl and cover with plenty of water. Let them soak overnight (at least 8 hours) to soften.
2. Prepare the aromatics: Drain the soaked beans using a colander. Finely chop the onion, mince the garlic, and dice the apple.
3. Sauté the onions and garlic: Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic and cook until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the apples and spices: Stir in the diced apples, cinnamon, nutmeg, smoked paprika, and ground cloves. Cook for another 3 minutes, allowing the spices to release their aroma.
5. Add the beans and liquids: Pour in the drained navy beans, tomato sauce, molasses, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and vegetable broth or water. Stir well to combine.
6. Simmer the beans: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer gently for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until beans are tender and the sauce has thickened. Add more water if needed.
7. Adjust seasoning: Season with salt and black pepper to taste. If you’d like a sweeter or tangier flavor, adjust molasses or vinegar accordingly.
8. Optional oven finish: For a deeper baked flavor, transfer the beans to an oven-safe dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) uncovered for 30 minutes, stirring halfway through.
9. Serve warm: Let the beans cool slightly before serving for the best flavor development.

Tips & Variations

“For a vegan-friendly smoky boost, add a splash of liquid smoke or smoked salt.”

• Use canned beans: If short on time, substitute with 3 cans (15 oz each) of navy or white beans. Drain and rinse before adding to the sauce. Reduce simmering time to 30 minutes to meld flavors.
• Sweetener swaps: Swap brown sugar with maple syrup or coconut sugar for a different kind of sweetness.
• Add heat: For a spicy kick, add 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce.
• Make it smoky: Incorporate diced smoked tofu or tempeh for added protein and texture.
• Apple varieties: For a sweeter pie-like flavor, use Fuji or Gala apples instead of tart Granny Smith.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Apple pie baked beans pair wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Serve them as a hearty side for grilled vegetables or your favorite vegan sausages.

They also make a fantastic topping for baked potatoes or toast for a comforting meal.

You can also enjoy these beans alongside a fresh green salad or roasted root vegetables to balance the sweetness with some earthiness. For a fun twist, try spooning them over rice or quinoa for a filling vegan bowl.

Don’t forget to check out our Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious for easy meal ideas that complement this dish beautifully.

Conclusion

This apple pie baked beans recipe is a delightful way to reinvent a classic favorite. The marriage of sweet apple pie spices with the smoky, savory beans creates a dish that’s rich in flavor yet comforting and familiar.

It’s perfect for those who love creative cooking and are looking for a recipe that’s both unique and accessible.

Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a potluck, or simply craving something warm and satisfying, this recipe delivers all that and more. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients and plant-based protein, making it a wholesome addition to any meal.

For more exciting and delicious recipes, be sure to explore our collection of Backpacking Dehydrated Vegan Meal Recipes for Easy Camping and Apple Barn Pigeon Forge TN Vegetable Soup Recipe Guide.

{“@context”: “https://schema.org/”, “@type”: “Recipe”, “name”: “Apple Pie Baked Beans”, “image”: [], “author”: {“@type”: “Organization”, “name”: “GluttonLv”}, “description”: “A sweet and savory twist on classic baked beans, combining apples and warm spices for a comforting side dish. Perfect for potlucks or family dinners.”, “prepTime”: “PT15M”, “cookTime”: “PT1H30M”, “totalTime”: “PT1H45M”, “recipeYield”: “6 servings”, “recipeIngredient”: [“2 cans (15 oz each) navy beans, drained and rinsed”, “1 large apple, peeled, cored, and diced”, “1/2 cup brown sugar”, “1/2 cup ketchup”, “1/4 cup molasses”, “1/4 cup apple cider vinegar”, “1 small onion, finely chopped”, “2 cloves garlic, minced”, “1 teaspoon ground cinnamon”, “1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg”, “1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika”, “Salt and pepper to taste”], “recipeInstructions”: [{“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Preheat oven to 350\u00b0F (175\u00b0C).”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “In a large bowl, combine beans, diced apple, brown sugar, ketchup, molasses, and apple cider vinegar.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Add chopped onion, minced garlic, cinnamon, nutmeg, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Transfer mixture to a baking dish and cover with foil.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Bake for 1 hour covered, then remove foil and bake an additional 30 minutes to thicken.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Let cool slightly before serving.”}], “nutrition”: {“calories”: “280”, “proteinContent”: “12g”, “fatContent”: “1.5g”, “carbohydrateContent”: “58g”}}