Recipe for Sour Cream Apple Walnut Pie Made Easy

There’s something undeniably comforting about the warm aroma of freshly baked apple pie wafting through the kitchen. But when you add a creamy tang from sour cream and the earthy crunch of walnuts, you transform a classic dessert into something truly spectacular.

This sour cream apple walnut pie combines tender, spiced apples with a luscious filling that’s both rich and balanced, nestled in a buttery, flaky crust. Whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering, a cozy family dinner, or simply treating yourself, this pie is sure to impress.

In this post, we’ll walk you through every step of making this delicious pie—from selecting the best apples to achieving the perfect crust texture. Plus, you’ll find helpful tips, variations to suit your taste, and nutritional insights to keep you informed.

Ready to bake the pie that will become your new favorite? Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This sour cream apple walnut pie is a delightful twist on traditional apple pie, offering a creamy, slightly tangy filling that perfectly complements the natural sweetness of the apples. The addition of crunchy walnuts adds texture and a nutty depth, making each bite interesting and satisfying.

One of the best parts? The sour cream helps keep the filling moist and tender without making it overly sweet.

This pie strikes a beautiful balance between flavors, making it a crowd-pleaser for all seasons. It’s also straightforward enough for bakers of all skill levels—no complicated techniques, just pure deliciousness.

Looking for other comforting recipes? Try our Vegan Potato Corn Chowder Recipe for Cozy Comfort Food or the fresh and easy Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas.

Ingredients

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour (for crust)
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp sugar (for crust)
• 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 4-6 tbsp ice water
• 5 cups peeled, cored, and sliced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp recommended)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup sour cream
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (for filling)
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp ground nutmeg
• ½ tsp salt (for filling)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup chopped walnuts
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 egg (for egg wash)
• 1 tbsp coarse sugar (optional, for topping)

Equipment

• 9-inch pie dish
• Mixing bowls
• Pastry blender or fork (for crust)
• Rolling pin
• Sharp knife or mandoline (for slicing apples)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk
• Baking sheet (to place under pie during baking)
• Cooling rack

Instructions

1. Make the pie crust: In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar. Add the cold cubed butter. Using a pastry blender or fork, cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Add ice water gradually: Start with 4 tablespoons and mix gently until the dough begins to come together. Add more water if necessary, one tablespoon at a time, but avoid overworking the dough.
3. Divide and chill dough: Form the dough into two disks, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
4. Prepare the filling: In a large bowl, toss the sliced apples with lemon juice to prevent browning. Add sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and vanilla extract. Mix well to coat the apples evenly.
5. Roll out the dough: On a floured surface, roll out one disk of dough into a 12-inch circle. Carefully place it in the 9-inch pie dish, pressing gently to fit the shape.
6. Add the filling: Pour the apple mixture into the crust, spreading evenly. Spoon dollops of sour cream over the apples and sprinkle the chopped walnuts on top.
7. Top crust: Roll out the second dough disk to cover the pie. You can either cover fully or create a lattice pattern. Trim excess dough and crimp edges to seal.
8. Apply egg wash: Beat the egg and brush it over the top crust for a golden finish. Sprinkle with coarse sugar if desired.
9. Bake the pie: Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch drips. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 50-60 minutes or until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbly. If the edges brown too quickly, cover them with foil.
10. Cool and serve: Allow the pie to cool on a rack for at least 2 hours before slicing to let the filling set properly.

Tips & Variations

For the best flavor and texture, use a mix of tart and sweet apples like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp.

To make this pie gluten-free, substitute the crust flour with a gluten-free blend and ensure your baking powder is gluten-free as well.

Try adding a pinch of ground ginger or cardamom for a unique spice twist.

If you prefer a crunchier walnut topping, toast the walnuts lightly before adding them to the pie.

For a dairy-free version, substitute sour cream with coconut cream and use a vegan butter alternative in the crust.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This pie is absolutely delicious served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a less sweet accompaniment, try a drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar.

If you want to enjoy it as part of a larger dessert spread, pair it with a fresh fruit salad or a light sorbet to balance the richness. For festive occasions, a cup of hot apple cider or spiced tea complements the flavors wonderfully.

Conclusion

Making a sour cream apple walnut pie is a wonderful way to bring a classic dessert to life with a creamy twist and crunchy texture. The combination of tart apples, rich sour cream filling, and toasted walnuts makes each bite both comforting and exciting.

With this recipe, you have a foolproof guide to baking a pie that’s perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or any day you crave something special.

Don’t forget to explore other delicious options to complement your baking adventures, like our Afghan Vegetarian Pulao Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide for a savory meal or the refreshing Vegan Recipes No Tofu: Delicious Plant-Based Meals for plant-based inspiration.

Happy baking!

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