Bushra Griffith
Apple pie and cheddar cheese is a classic dessert pairing that dates back to the 17th century in England. Traditional fruit pies were first paired with dairy-based toppings such as custard and later, cheese. When English settlers brought this tradition to North America, it gained popularity in regions with dairy farming and easy access to cheese, particularly in New England and the American Midwest. The combination of sweet, caramelized apples and salty, sharp cheddar cheese creates a delightful interplay of flavours, making apple pie and cheddar cheese a beloved regional delicacy in the United States.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| History | The combination of apple pie and cheddar cheese dates back to the 17th century in England, where traditional fruit pies were first paired with custard and later cheese. English settlers brought the tradition to North America, where it caught on in dairy farming regions like New England and the American Midwest. |
| Taste | The salty, sharp cheddar cheese balances out the sweetness of the apple pie, creating a sweet and savoury combination. The cheese can be melted on top of the pie or served on the side. |
| Cheese Type | While cheddar is the most common variety, other types of cheese like Gruyere, aged Gouda, and Wensleydale can also be used. |
| Apple Type | A mix of sweet and tart apples, such as Granny Smith, Fuji, Honeycrisp, Gala, or Pink Lady, is recommended for the best taste. |
| Recipe | The apple pie with cheddar cheese recipe typically includes a buttery pie crust with flour, sugar, and salt, and butter, filled with a cinnamon apple mixture. The cheese can be added to the crust, filling, or topping. |
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What You'll Learn
The history of apple pie and cheddar cheese
The combination of apple pie and cheddar cheese is believed to have originated in the 17th century in England, where traditional fruit pies were first paired with dairy-based toppings such as custard and, later, cheese. Cheddar was the most commonly used cheese variety, but regional preferences existed, such as Wensleydale in Yorkshire. The English then brought this culinary tradition to North America, where it gained popularity in regions with dairy farming and easy access to cheese, particularly in New England and the American Midwest.
Over time, this combination of apple pie and cheddar cheese became a regional delicacy in certain parts of the United States, with some areas developing their own unique traditions and preferences. For example, in Wisconsin, there is an urban myth that it is illegal to serve apple pie without a slice of cheddar cheese, showcasing the strong association between the two foods in that region. Similarly, in New England, serving apple pie with a block of cheddar cheese on the side is considered a staple, and omitting the cheese is frowned upon by locals.
The pairing of apple pie and cheddar cheese creates a delightful interplay of salty and sweet flavours. The sharp, nutty flavour of cheddar cheese complements the sweetness of the apple pie filling, resulting in a savoury-sweet treat that satisfies both cheese lovers and those with a sweet tooth. The addition of cheese to apple pie is not just a modern innovation but a continuation of a centuries-old tradition that has stood the test of time.
While the combination of apple pie and cheddar cheese may seem unusual to some, it has a long history and a dedicated following in certain regions. The tradition has evolved and spread, with variations in ingredients and preparation methods, but the fundamental pairing of apple pie and cheddar cheese remains a classic that many continue to enjoy.
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Regional preferences for apple pie and cheese
The tradition of serving apple pie with a slice of cheddar cheese varies across different regions. This combination is especially popular in the northern regions of the United States, specifically in the Midwest and Northeast, including states like Vermont, Wisconsin, and New England. In these regions, the abundance of dairy farms and cheese accessibility influenced the development of this tradition. The pairing of sweet apple pie with sharp cheddar cheese reflects the fusion of flavours and the rich agricultural history of these areas.
In the Midwest, the tradition may have originated from baking cheddar into the pastry, resulting in a savoury base for the sweet apple filling. This combination is often considered a delightful fusion of flavours that enhances the overall dining experience of apple pie. However, others view it as a peculiar culinary practice.
In New England, it is customary to serve a thick slice of extra-sharp cheddar draped over a warm slice of apple pie. This region, known for its dairy and apple production, has strongly embraced this pairing. When visiting New England, one might encounter this unique combination as a nod to local traditions and flavours.
In contrast, the tradition of serving apple pie with cheddar cheese is less prevalent in the Southern regions of the United States. Many Southerners consider this combination unusual or even bizarre. Instead of cheddar, other types of cheese may be preferred, such as mild cheddar or other regional varieties.
Furthermore, within each region, families may have their own unique twists on this tradition, showcasing the dynamic nature of culinary customs and how they evolve over time. The choice of cheese and its preparation can vary, with options ranging from melting the cheese on top of the pie to serving it cold or grated over the apple filling.
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How to make an apple and cheddar pie
Apple pie and cheddar cheese is a classic combination, with the salty, creamy cheese complementing the sweet-tart apples. The cheese can be served on the side or baked inside the pie. Here is a recipe for an apple and cheddar pie, which serves eight.
Ingredients
- 2 and 1/2 cups (313g) all-purpose flour, plus extra
- 1/2 cup (120ml) water
- 1/2 cup (120g) butter, cubed
- 1/2 cup (120g) shortening
- 1 cup (200g) sugar, plus extra for sprinkling
- 1/4 cup (55g) brown sugar
- 1/4 cup (60ml) white sugar
- 1/4 cup (60ml) water
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) ice water
- 1/4 cup (55g) tapioca
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 6-7 large apples (a mix of sweet and tart, such as Gala, Cortland, Granny Smith, Pink Lady, Honeycrisp, Braeburn, Empire or Fuji)
- 1 cup (115g) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
Method
First, make the pie crust. Whisk together the flour, sugar and salt in a large bowl until well combined. Cut the butter and shortening into pieces and add to the dry ingredients, working with your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse meal. Slowly mix in the ice water, 2 tablespoons at a time, until the dough begins to clump.
Roll out one disk of dough on a well-floured surface into an approximately 12-inch round, rotating, turning over and sprinkling it with more flour as needed. Fold in half and transfer to a 9-inch deep-dish pie plate, easing it into place.
Next, make the filling. Toss the apples, sugar, tapioca, cinnamon, nutmeg and salt. Spoon the apple mixture into the pie plate. Cut the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter into pieces and place on top of the apples.
Roll out the second disk of dough. Moisten the edge of the bottom crust with water and place the top crust over the apples. Press the edges of the dough together, trimming any excess to about 1/2 inch. Tuck the dough under itself and crimp with your fingers or a fork to seal. Make several slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
Place the oven rack in the middle position and preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Once preheated, bake the pie for 20 minutes. Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (190°C) and bake for a further 30-45 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown, the apples are tender and the filling is bubbling thickly. If the crust starts to brown too quickly, cover it with foil.
Let the pie cool completely (at least 4 hours) before serving with sliced sharp cheddar on the side, if desired.
Tips
For a cheesier pie, you can add shredded cheddar to the crust. You can also substitute the apples with other stone fruits, such as plums or peaches.
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The best types of cheddar cheese to use
Cabot Creamery recommends using their popular Cabot Vermont Sharp Cheddar, Cabot Extra Sharp Cheddar, or any other sharp Cabot cheddars.
Other sources suggest Longhorn Colby, or a simple, sharp, nutty cheddar.
If you are making an apple cheddar pie, where the cheese is incorporated into the crust, it is recommended to shred the cheese yourself, as pre-shredded cheese can be dry and negatively affect the texture of the crust.
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Other foods that pair well with apple pie
Apple pie is a versatile dessert that can be paired with a variety of toppings and sides to enhance its flavour. While cheddar cheese is a popular choice, there are several other foods that can be enjoyed with apple pie. Here are some alternatives:
Vanilla Ice Cream
A classic choice, a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds an extra layer of sweetness to the apple pie. This combination is especially refreshing during the warmer months and is a favourite among those who prefer their desserts on the sweeter side.
Custard
In the UK, apple pies are often served drowned in custard. This combination is less common in other parts of the world, but it's still a delicious option for those who enjoy a rich and creamy treat.
Caramel Sauce
For those with a sweet tooth, serving apple pie warm with a generous drizzle of caramel sauce is a decadent option. The warm pie and the sweet, sticky caramel create a delightful contrast that is sure to satisfy any sugar craving.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese Crackers
For those who enjoy the traditional combination of apple pie and cheddar cheese but want a slightly different texture, crackers can be a fun alternative. Cheez-Its crackers, for example, can provide a crunchy contrast to the soft pie filling.
Wensleydale Cheese
While cheddar cheese is the most popular choice, other types of cheese can also complement apple pie. In Yorkshire, England, it is traditional to pair apple pie with Wensleydale cheese. This combination offers a unique flavour profile that is worth exploring.
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Frequently asked questions
The combination of apple pie and cheddar cheese is a delicious balance of salty and sweet flavours. While it may seem like an unusual pairing, cheese and apples are a common combination in other dishes, like grilled cheese with apples or fruit on charcuterie boards.
The pairing of apple pie and cheese dates back to the 17th century in England, where traditional fruit pies were first served with dairy-based toppings such as custard and, later, cheese. English settlers then brought this culinary tradition to North America, where it became popular in regions with significant dairy farming, such as New England and the American Midwest.
There are many different recipes for apple pie and cheddar cheese, but a basic version involves mixing shredded sharp cheddar cheese with flour, sugar, and salt for the pie crust. For the filling, toss apples with sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice, and then spoon the mixture into the pie crust. Bake the pie until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
