With Thanksgiving just around the corner, we’re already planning the menu. One dessert we always include is this gluten-free, vegan apple pie. Courtney introduced us to it a few years ago and it was so good it immediately became a family favorite at every gathering.
The original, simple pie recipe she uses is available from Bianca Zapatka; to make it gluten-free, swap in a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend (Courtney often uses Bob’s Red Mill 1:1 Gluten Free Baking Flour).
Courtney made two of these pies last week just for fun. “No need for a holiday to make a pretty pie,” she said — and we agree. Any day is a perfect day for baking. You may remember some of her other pies we’ve featured here before: the Easter Pie, the Woodland Themed Pie, and a pie decorated with autumn leaves. People often ask where she finds the pie crust cutters she uses to create such charming designs, so we’re sharing some of those tools and favorites here.
We also did a live video together recently where she shared favorite tools and baking tips.
Recommended tools and resources:
First Prize Pie Cookbook
Leaf pie crust cutters — these are the ones Courtney uses most often for her leaf and nature designs.
Script cookie cutters — perfect for creating words or messages on pies, like “Pie Love You.”
White ruffle edge pie plate — a beautiful, deep-dish option that adds a classic touch to any pie.
Patterned kitchen towels — useful and decorative; available in many patterns to match your kitchen style.
Stamped measuring cups and hand-written measuring spoons — charming and practical tools for everyday baking.
Plunger-style themed cutters — great for seasonal pies and cookies: Christmas, winter snowflakes, Thanksgiving shapes like turkey, pumpkin, acorn and oak leaf.
Deep dish porcelain pie plate — another favorite for its textured side design and reliable quality.
Bear cookie cutters with stamps — adorable for sugar cookies and decorating projects.
French wood rolling pin — a classic choice for rolling pastry evenly and smoothly.
We’ve listed several baking tools we love and use. These items make decorating pies simple and enjoyable, whether you’re crafting seasonal shapes or elegant script. Good tools can make a big difference in presentation and ease of baking.
Whether you’re baking for a holiday or just because, a simple gluten-free vegan apple pie is a delightful, crowd-pleasing dessert. With a reliable recipe and the right tools — well-shaped cutters, a sturdy pie plate, and a good rolling pin — you can create pies that look as lovely as they taste. Happy baking!