This classic apple pie is a timeless dessert featuring sweet and tart apples encased in a flaky, buttery crust. It’s perfect for any occasion, especially during the fall season.
The recipe is simple and allows for variations, such as adding spices or using different types of apples to enhance the flavor.
Apple pie is more than just a dessert; it’s a symbol of comfort and nostalgia. The combination of sweet and tart apples, paired with warm spices, creates a delightful experience for the senses.
Picture a freshly baked pie, its golden-brown crust glistening under the soft light of a cozy kitchen. The aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg fills the air, inviting everyone to gather around the table. Each slice reveals juicy apple slices, perfectly cooked to tender perfection.
Creating the Perfect Crust
The foundation of any great apple pie is its crust. A flaky, buttery crust not only holds the filling but also adds a satisfying texture. Whether you choose to make a homemade crust or use a store-bought option, the key is to handle the dough gently to maintain its flakiness.
Rolling out the dough to the right thickness is essential. Too thick, and it may overwhelm the filling; too thin, and it risks tearing. A well-prepared crust will provide the perfect balance to the sweet apple filling.
Choosing the Right Apples
The choice of apples can significantly impact the flavor of your pie. Varieties like Granny Smith offer a tartness that balances the sweetness of sugar, while Honeycrisp brings a juicy sweetness to the mix. Combining different types can create a more complex flavor profile.
When preparing the apples, tossing them with lemon juice not only enhances their flavor but also prevents browning. Adding spices like cinnamon and nutmeg elevates the taste, making each bite a warm embrace.
Assembling the Pie
Assembling the pie is where the magic happens. After preparing the filling, it’s time to layer it into the crust. Start by fitting one crust into the pie pan, then fill it generously with the apple mixture. Dotting the filling with small pieces of butter adds richness and depth.
Covering the pie with a second crust requires sealing the edges well to prevent any filling from leaking out during baking. Cutting slits in the top allows steam to escape, ensuring the apples cook evenly and the crust achieves that desired golden hue.
Baking to Perfection
Baking the pie at the right temperature is crucial. Starting at a higher temperature helps the crust set quickly, while reducing the temperature allows the filling to cook through without burning the crust. The result is a beautifully baked pie with a golden crust and tender apples.
Allowing the pie to cool before slicing is important. This resting period helps the filling set, making it easier to serve. The anticipation builds as the steam rises, promising a warm, comforting slice of pie.
Serving Suggestions
Apple pie is delightful on its own, but pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream takes it to another level. The creaminess of the ice cream complements the warm spices and sweet apples, creating a harmonious balance.
For an added touch, consider drizzling caramel sauce over the top or sprinkling some chopped nuts for crunch. Each serving can be a little different, allowing everyone to customize their experience.
This apple pie combines sliced apples with sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg, all baked in a homemade pie crust until golden brown. The recipe takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes from start to finish and serves 8 people.
Ingredients
6 to 8 medium apples, peeled, cored, and sliced (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon butter, cut into small pieces
1 package (14.1 ounces) refrigerated pie crusts (or homemade crust)
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
1 tablespoon sugar (for sprinkling on top)
Instructions
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Prepare the Apples: In a large bowl, toss the sliced apples with lemon juice, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and flour until well coated.
Assemble the Pie: Roll out one pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie pan. Fill with the apple mixture and dot with butter. Cover with the second pie crust, sealing the edges and cutting slits in the top for steam to escape.
Apply Egg Wash: Brush the top crust with the beaten egg and sprinkle with sugar for a golden finish.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for an additional 30-35 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the crust is golden brown.
Cool and Serve: Allow the pie to cool for at least 2 hours before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature, optionally with vanilla ice cream.
