Apple Pie Baked Beans Recipe

If you’re looking for a unique side dish that blends sweet and savory flavors, Apple Pie Baked Beans is the perfect recipe to try. This dish combines the comforting taste of baked beans with the warm, spiced sweetness of apple pie filling, creating a delicious twist on a classic favorite. Perfect for barbecues, holiday gatherings, or cozy family dinners, this recipe will surprise and delight your taste buds.

Ingredients

For the Baked Beans:

• 2 cans (15 oz each) navy beans, drained and rinsed
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
• 1/4 cup molasses
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/2 cup diced onion
• 1/2 cup diced apple (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp recommended)
• 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled (optional)

For the Apple Pie Topping:

• 1 cup apple pie filling, chopped into small pieces
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/4 cup crushed graham crackers (for a pie-like crunch)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.

Step 2: Prepare the Beans Mixture

In a large bowl, mix together the navy beans, brown sugar, barbecue sauce, molasses, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, paprika, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir until well combined.

Step 3: Add Apples and Onions

Fold in the diced onions and apples to add texture and a natural sweetness to the dish. If you’re using bacon, mix it in at this stage.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish and spread it evenly. Spoon the chopped apple pie filling over the top and sprinkle with cinnamon and nutmeg.

Step 5: Bake Until Bubbly

Place the dish in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes or until the beans are thick and bubbly. In the last 5 minutes of baking, sprinkle crushed graham crackers on top for an extra crunch.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Let the beans cool slightly before serving. This dish pairs well with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or even as a stand-alone side. Enjoy the rich, caramelized flavors of apple pie combined with the savory depth of baked beans!

Tips for the Best Apple Pie Baked Beans

• For extra sweetness, drizzle a bit of maple syrup over the top before baking.
• Swap navy beans for pinto or black beans for a different texture.
• Add a splash of apple cider vinegar for a tangy contrast to the sweetness.
• If you like a smoky flavor, use thick-cut smoked bacon or add a dash of liquid smoke.

This Apple Pie Baked Beans recipe is a creative and flavorful dish that brings together the best of sweet and savory flavors. Whether you’re making it for a cookout, potluck, or holiday feast, it’s sure to be a hit!