Oat and Applesauce Pie Crust Vegan Gluten-Free Recipe

Introduction

This oat and applesauce pie crust is a simple, vegan, and gluten-free alternative to traditional pie crusts. With just two ingredients, it comes together quickly and offers a slightly chewy texture that complements both sweet and savory fillings.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups oats, ground coarsely (makes about 1 cup)
• 1/2 cup applesauce

Instructions

1. Step 1: Grind the oats in a blender until they are coarsely ground, not as fine as oat flour, leaving some texture.
2. Step 2: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the ground oats with the applesauce and stir well to blend evenly.
3. Step 3: Press the mixture into the bottom and up the sides of an 8-inch pie tin, spreading it evenly to about 1/4 inch thick.
4. Step 4: Poke a few holes in the bottom of the crust with a fork or small knife to prevent bubbles.
5. Step 5: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes, until the crust is firm and starting to brown.
6. Step 6: Remove from the oven and let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for about 30 minutes before adding any cold pie filling.

Tips & Variations

• Use rolled oats for a coarser texture; for a smoother crust, grind the oats a little finer but avoid turning them into flour.
• If you’d like a slightly sweeter crust, add a teaspoon of maple syrup or a pinch of cinnamon to the mixture.
• This crust works well with fruit pies or creamy fillings that benefit from a mild, subtly sweet base.

Storage

Store any unused crust wrapped tightly in plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the baked crust for up to 1 month; thaw in the fridge before filling. Reheat slightly in a warm oven to refresh the texture if desired.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

Quick oats can be used, but they may result in a softer texture. For best results, use rolled oats and grind them coarsely.

Is this crust suitable for savory pies?

Yes, the mild flavor of oats and applesauce works nicely with savory fillings too. You might want to omit any sweet add-ins if making a savory pie.

Oat and Applesauce Pie Crust Vegan Gluten-Free Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 94 reviews

This Vegan Gluten-Free Oat and Applesauce Pie Crust is a simple, wholesome alternative to traditional pie crusts. Made with coarse ground oats and naturally sweetened applesauce, it offers a tender, slightly chewy texture with a subtle hint of sweetness. Perfect for plant-based and gluten-sensitive bakers, this crust bakes up golden and firm, creating an ideal base for both warm and chilled pie fillings.

• Author: Lisa
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
• Total Time: 35-40 minutes (including chilling)
• Yield: 1 8-inch pie crust 1x
• Category: Pie Crust
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegan

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Pie Crust Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups oats, ground coarsely (makes about 1 cup)
• 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce

Instructions

1. Grind Oats: Using a blender, pulse the oats until they reach a coarse, grainy texture. Avoid grinding them too finely like oat flour; leaving some texture is important for a good crust consistency.
2. Mix Ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the coarsely ground oats with the applesauce. Stir well until the mixture is evenly blended into a sticky dough.
3. Form the Crust: Press the oat and applesauce mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of an 8-inch pie tin. Spread evenly to about 1/4 inch thickness for a uniform crust.
4. Prepare for Baking: Use a fork or small knife to poke several holes throughout the bottom of the crust to allow steam to escape during baking, preventing bubbling.
5. Bake the Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Bake the crust for 20 to 25 minutes, or until it is firm to the touch and starting to turn golden brown around the edges.
6. Cool and Chill: Remove the crust from the oven and allow it to cool completely at room temperature. For optimal texture, especially if using a cold pie filling, place the cooled crust in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before filling and serving.

Notes

• This crust works well for both fruit pies and creamy fillings.
• Use unsweetened applesauce to control sugar content in your pie.
• Ensure oats are coarsely ground rather than finely milled for best texture.
• Poking holes before baking prevents sogginess.
• Chilling the crust before adding cold fillings helps maintain firmness.

Keywords: vegan pie crust, gluten free pie crust, oat crust, applesauce crust, healthy pie crust, vegan baking, gluten-free baking