When you think of baked beans, you might picture a classic side dish at a summer barbecue or a comforting addition to a hearty breakfast. But what if baked beans could be transformed into something even more special? Enter Easy Apple Pie Baked Beans—a unique and delicious twist on the traditional recipe. This dish combines the smoky, savory flavors of baked beans with the sweet, spiced notes of apple pie, creating a side dish that’s as unexpected as it is delightful. Imagine tender beans simmered in a rich, slightly sweet sauce with chunks of apple, a hint of cinnamon, and a touch of warmth from spices. It’s a dish that’s perfect for fall gatherings, holiday meals, or anytime you want to add a little creativity to your table.

What makes this recipe truly special is its ability to surprise and delight. The addition of apples and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg elevates the humble baked bean into something extraordinary. It’s a dish that bridges the gap between sweet and savory, making it a versatile addition to any menu. Whether you’re serving it alongside grilled meats, as part of a holiday spread, or even as a standalone dish, it’s guaranteed to spark conversation and earn rave reviews.

This Easy Apple Pie Baked Beans is also incredibly easy to make, requiring just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time. It’s the kind of dish that lets the oven do most of the work, freeing you up to focus on other parts of your meal. Plus, it’s a great way to use up seasonal apples, making it both practical and delicious. So, preheat your oven and get ready to enjoy a dish that’s as comforting as it is creative.

Why This Easy Apple Pie Baked Beans?

Selling Points:

• Sweet and Savory: Combines the smoky flavor of baked beans with the sweet, spiced notes of apple pie.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and minimal prep time make it a stress-free dish.
• Perfect for Fall: A great way to use seasonal apples and warm spices.
• Crowd-Pleaser: A unique twist on a classic that’s sure to impress.

What You Need for Easy Apple Pie Baked Beans

Ingredients:

• 2 cans (28 oz each) baked beans
• 2 medium apples, peeled and diced (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• 1/2 cup diced onion
• 1/2 cup diced bacon (optional, for added smokiness)
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 cup water or apple juice

How to Make Easy Apple Pie Baked Beans

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the Bacon (Optional): In a skillet, cook the diced bacon until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the bacon grease in the skillet.
3. Sauté the Onions and Apples: In the same skillet, sauté the diced onions and apples until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the baked beans, cooked bacon (if using), sautéed onions and apples, brown sugar, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, apple cider vinegar, and water or apple juice. Mix well.
5. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish or a Dutch oven.
6. Bake: Cover the dish with foil or a lid and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the cover and bake for an additional 15 minutes to thicken the sauce.
7. Serve: Let the baked beans cool slightly before serving. Garnish with additional diced apples or a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.

Tips for the Perfect Apple Pie Baked Beans

• Choose the Right Apples: Use firm, slightly tart apples like Granny Smith for the best flavor and texture.
• Adjust Sweetness: Taste the mixture before baking and adjust the brown sugar or maple syrup to your preference.
• Add Smokiness: If you’re not using bacon, add a dash of smoked paprika for a similar flavor.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the dish up to a day in advance and bake it just before serving.

Substitutions and Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Skip the bacon and use a plant-based alternative or omit it entirely.
• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for heat.
• Different Beans: Use navy beans or pinto beans instead of baked beans for a different texture.
• Gluten-Free: Ensure all ingredients, especially the baked beans, are gluten-free.

Make a Healthier Version

• Reduce Sugar: Use less brown sugar or substitute with a natural sweetener like honey.
• Lean Bacon: Use turkey bacon or skip it altogether for a lighter option.
• Extra Veggies: Add diced carrots or bell peppers for extra nutrition.

Closing for Easy Apple Pie Baked Beans

This Easy Apple Pie Baked Beans recipe is a dish that’s sure to surprise and delight. With its unique combination of sweet and savory flavors, it’s a side dish that’s perfect for fall gatherings, holiday meals, or anytime you want to add a little creativity to your table. Don’t forget to let us know how your baked beans turn out, and consider checking out some of our other recipes for more inspiration. Happy cooking!

Frequently Asked Questions for Easy Apple Pie Baked Beans

Can I use fresh beans instead of canned?
Yes, but you’ll need to cook them first until tender before adding the other ingredients.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours.

How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

What can I serve with this?
Pair it with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or cornbread for a complete meal.

Can I use different spices?
Yes, try adding ginger, allspice, or cardamom for a different flavor profile.

Can I make this vegan?
Yes, skip the bacon and use a plant-based alternative or omit it entirely.

How do I prevent the beans from drying out?
Ensure there’s enough liquid (water or apple juice) in the dish before baking.

Can I use other fruits?
Yes, try adding pears or cranberries for a different twist.

What’s the best way to reheat?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or in the microwave until heated through.

This Easy Apple Pie Baked Beans recipe is a dish that’s sure to become a favorite. With its perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, it’s a side dish that’s as unique as it is delicious. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a dish that’s both comforting and creative. Happy cooking!

Easy Apple Pie Baked Beans

Recipe by CutsfoodCourse: All Recipes

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

30

minutes

Cooking time

40

minutes

Calories

300

kcal

Ingredients

• 2 cans (28 oz each) baked beans

• 2 medium apples, peeled and diced (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)

• 1/2 cup brown sugar

• 1/4 cup maple syrup

• 1 tsp ground cinnamon

• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg

• 1/4 tsp ground cloves

• 1/2 cup diced onion

• 1/2 cup diced bacon (optional, for added smokiness)

• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

• 1/2 cup water or apple juice

Directions

• Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Cook the Bacon (Optional): In a skillet, cook the diced bacon until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the bacon grease in the skillet.
• Sauté the Onions and Apples: In the same skillet, sauté the diced onions and apples until softened, about 5 minutes.
• Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the baked beans, cooked bacon (if using), sautéed onions and apples, brown sugar, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, apple cider vinegar, and water or apple juice. Mix well.
• Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish or a Dutch oven.
• Bake: Cover the dish with foil or a lid and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the cover and bake for an additional 15 minutes to thicken the sauce.
• Serve: Let the baked beans cool slightly before serving. Garnish with additional diced apples or a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.