Apple Pie
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
A classic Apple Pie recipe that warms the heart and delights the senses with its flaky crust and sweet, spiced apple filling. Perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings, this homemade dessert is sure to be the star of your holiday table, filling your home with irresistible aromas and creating lasting memories with loved ones.
Apple Pie is more than just a dessert; it's a family tradition. Each bite tells a story of warmth, laughter, and love.
Why You'll Love This Apple Pie
- Flaky, buttery crust
- Sweet and spiced apple filling
- Perfect for any festive occasion
The Art of Pie Making
Making a pie from scratch is a labor of love. The balance of flavors in the filling, along with the perfect texture in the crust, is what truly elevates this dessert. Start by choosing the right apples; a mix of tart and sweet varieties adds depth to the flavor profile. Popular choices include Granny Smith for tartness and Fuji for sweetness. Taking the time to properly prepare your crust will ensure a flaky base that complements the juicy filling beautifully.
Another key component in pie making is the technique of layering flavors. By incorporating spices like cinnamon and nutmeg into the apple filling, you enhance the natural sweetness of the fruit, creating a warm and inviting aroma. The addition of lemon juice not only brightens the taste but also helps to prevent the apples from browning too quickly, ensuring your pie looks as delicious as it tastes.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
Once your Apple Pie is out of the oven, let it cool for a bit to allow the filling to set. This will make serving much easier and prevent the filling from spilling out when you slice the pie. For an indulgent touch, serving it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream is always a hit. The creamy texture of the ice cream beautifully contrasts with the warm, spiced filling, creating a delightful experience with every bite.
For a unique twist, consider pairing the pie with a sharp cheddar cheese, a classic combination that enhances the apple flavors while adding richness. A drizzle of caramel sauce or a dusting of powdered sugar can also elevate your presentation for festive occasions, making your dessert not just tasty but also visually stunning.
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
- 1/4 cup ice water
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Filling
- 6-8 apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Make sure to choose a combination of tart and sweet apples for the best flavor.
Instructions
Make the Crust
In a bowl, combine the flour and salt. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the ice water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. Divide into two balls, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate.
Prepare the Filling
In a large bowl, mix the sliced apples with sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Let it sit while the crust chills.
Assemble the Pie
Roll out one dough ball to fit your pie pan. Add the apple filling, then roll out the second dough ball and place it over the filling. Seal the edges and cut slits in the top for steam.
Bake the Pie
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake the pie for 15 minutes, then reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake for an additional 35 minutes, or until apples are soft and crust is golden.
Let the pie cool before serving to allow the filling to set.
Tips for Success
To ensure a perfect crust, always work with chilled ingredients. Keeping your butter and water cold will help create that sought-after flaky texture. Additionally, avoid overworking the dough; mix it just until it comes together. This will prevent the crust from becoming tough.
When it comes to baking, keep a close eye on your pie during the last few minutes in the oven. Every oven is different, so checking for a golden-brown crust and a bubbling filling will help you know when it's perfectly done. Using a pie shield or aluminum foil can help prevent the edges from burning if you notice they are browning too quickly.
Storage and Reheating
If you find yourself with leftover pie, you’re in luck! Apple pie stores beautifully. Cover it loosely with foil or plastic wrap and keep it in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors continue to meld, often making the second slice even better than the first!
When you're ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. This will restore the crispness of the crust and bring back that wonderful aroma, making it feel just like freshly baked pie.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use store-bought pie crust?
Yes, store-bought pie crust can save time, but homemade crust adds a special touch.
→ What apples are best for apple pie?
A mix of tart apples like Granny Smith and sweet apples like Fuji works best.
Apple Pie
A classic Apple Pie recipe that warms the heart and delights the senses with its flaky crust and sweet, spiced apple filling. Perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings, this homemade dessert is sure to be the star of your holiday table, filling your home with irresistible aromas and creating lasting memories with loved ones.
Created by: Lucy Bennett
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 8 servings
What You'll Need
For the Crust
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
- 1/4 cup ice water
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Filling
- 6-8 apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
How-To Steps
In a bowl, combine the flour and salt. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the ice water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. Divide into two balls, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate.
In a large bowl, mix the sliced apples with sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Let it sit while the crust chills.
Roll out one dough ball to fit your pie pan. Add the apple filling, then roll out the second dough ball and place it over the filling. Seal the edges and cut slits in the top for steam.
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake the pie for 15 minutes, then reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake for an additional 35 minutes, or until apples are soft and crust is golden.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250
- Total Fat: 12g