My moms shortcut apple pie is my fall desperation dessert.

My brother and I didnt care, though.

Wed take dessert however we could get it.

short-cut apple pie and a dollop of vanilla ice cream in a bowl with a spoon

Simply Recipes / Sara Haas

Even though my mom didnt bake per se, she did have a knack for getting creative.

This shortcut apple pie is a great example.

Its a deconstructed pie thats easy to make and comes together with a few simple ingredients.

short-cut apple pie in a bowl with a spoon (close-up)

Simply Recipes / Sara Haas

My mom liked to shop the freezer section of the grocery store.

A family favorite was Stouffers Glazed Apples.

She often served it as a side dish alongside pork chops or a ham steak.

To us, it was just as good as a slice ofapple pie.

I serve this dessert to my family now, and they love it just as much as I do.

If time is tight, Ill buy canned pie filling as a replacement.

This gives me more control of sugar and seasonings, which I love.

I userefrigerated pie doughalmost exclusively and usually go with Pillsbury because thats what they sell at my grocery store.

Unroll the pie crust onto the parchment paper.

Let air dry for 5 minutes, then cut into squares or other shapes.

Spread out on the baking sheet and bake until golden brown and crisp, about 5 to 10 minutes.

Meanwhile, add the pie filling to a small sauce pot and set over low heat.

Cover with a lid and cook, stirring occasionally, until warm, 5 to 10 minutes.

Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice, if using.

Portion the warmed apples into serving bowls.

Add the cinnamon-sugar pie pieces and top with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.

Quick Tips

you’re able to make the recipe as written with fantastic results.

Here are some tips that Ive incorporated along the way.