Introduction
There’s nothing quite like the warmth and comfort of a homemade apple pie. This classic dessert, with its flaky crust and sweet, spiced filling, is perfect for gatherings or simply to enjoy at home with family. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that will transport you back to simpler times.
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 6 to 8 tablespoons ice water
- 6 to 8 cups apples, peeled, cored, and sliced (a mix of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp is ideal)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon butter, to dot
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Yield: 1 pie (8 servings)
Directions and Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar. Add the cubed butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together. Divide the dough in half, shape into disks, and wrap in plastic. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Roll out one disk of dough on a floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie plate. Transfer the dough to the plate and trim the edges.
- In a large bowl, toss the sliced apples with sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice until well combined. Pour the filling into the prepared crust and dot with butter.
- Roll out the second disk of dough and place it over the apple filling. Crimp the edges to seal and cut slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
- Brush the top crust with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, then reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for an additional 35-45 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the crust is golden brown.
- Allow the pie to cool for at least 2 hours before serving to let the filling set.
Notes or Tips
- A touch of vanilla extract can enhance the flavor of the filling.
- Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious treat.
- Make the dough ahead of time and store in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze for later use.
Cooking Techniques
To achieve the perfect crust, make sure your butter is cold and avoid overworking the dough. This will help create a flaky texture.
FAQ
- Can I use store-bought pie crust? Yes, for convenience, store-bought options work well.
- What types of apples are best for pie? A mix of tart and sweet apples, like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp, is recommended.
- How do I store leftovers? Cover and refrigerate any leftovers for up to 3 days.
Conclusion
Homemade apple pie is a timeless dessert that brings joy to any occasion. With this recipe, you can create a pie that is as delicious as it is beautiful, making it the perfect centerpiece for your dessert table. Enjoy every slice!