Go Back
–+ servings

Old-Fashioned Mock Apple Pie Recipe (1930s)

This unique Depression-era recipe mimics the taste and texture of apple pie without using any apples. Instead, buttery crackers, sugar, and lemon juice create a surprisingly convincing apple-like filling.
A nostalgic dessert from the 1930s, this pie was popularized by Ritz Crackers and remains a fun vintage recipe to try today.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 40 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Cooling Time 2 hours
Course Dessert
Servings 9 -inch pie

Equipment

  • 9-inch pie pan
  • Large saucepan
  • Mixing bowls
  • Fork
  • Pastry brush

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 2 cups water
  • 3 teaspoons cream of tartar
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 40 Ritz crackers
  • 1 double-crust pie pastry
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 3 tablespoons cold butter cut into thin pats
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tablespoons water

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 425°F.
  • Prepare the syrup by combining sugar, water, and cream of tartar in a large saucepan over high heat. Stir occasionally until the mixture comes to a boil. Reduce to medium heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes. Remove from heat, stir in lemon juice, and allow it to cool.
  • Crush the crackers in a bowl, leaving some larger pieces for texture.
  • Assemble the pie by fitting the bottom crust into a 9-inch pie pan. Evenly spread the crushed crackers inside. Pour the cooled syrup mixture over the crackers, then sprinkle ground cinnamon over the top. Dot the filling with small pieces of butter. Cover with the top crust, trim the edges, and crimp them with a fork. Cut small slits in the top for venting.
  • Make an egg wash by whisking the egg with 2 tablespoons of water. Brush it over the pie crust’s top and edges.
  • Bake for 10 minutes at 425°F, then reduce the temperature to 350°F. Continue baking for another 20-25 minutes, until the crust turns golden brown.
  • Cool completely on a wire rack for at least 2 hours before slicing. This allows the filling to set properly. Refrigeration is optional but avoid chilling while warm, as it can make the pie soggy.

Notes

  • For a stronger apple-like flavor, add a dash of vanilla extract to the syrup mixture.
  • Serve warm with vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Keyword 1930s pie recipe, classic American pie, Depression-era dessert, no-apple apple pie, old recipes, old-fashioned mock apple pie, Ritz cracker pie, vintage baking
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!