There’s something magical about the aroma of freshly baked apple pie wafting through your kitchen. This classic dessert, with its flaky crust and sweet, spiced apples, is a timeless favorite that brings comfort and joy. Perfect for any occasion, this apple pie recipe is simple enough for beginners yet impressive enough for family gatherings. Let’s dive into the details and create a pie that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 6 to 8 tablespoons ice water
- 6 to 8 apples (Granny Smith and Honeycrisp recommended)
- ¾ cup sugar
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon butter (for dotting)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 8 servings. Preparation time is about 30 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 45 minutes.
Nutritional Value
One serving (1 slice) of apple pie contains approximately 320 calories, 15g fat, 45g carbohydrates, 2g protein, and 4g fiber. This is a delightful treat for one person, balancing indulgence with a touch of fruit nutrition.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- In a bowl, mix flour, salt, and sugar for the crust.
- Add diced butter and mix until crumbly.
- Stir in ice water gradually until dough forms.
- Divide dough in half, shape into disks, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Peel, core, and slice the apples into a large bowl.
- Add sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice to the apples, and toss to coat.
- Roll out one disk of dough on a floured surface and place it in a pie dish.
- Fill the crust with apple mixture and dot with butter.
- Roll out the second disk and create a lattice top; seal edges.
- Cut slits for steam and brush with an egg wash if desired.
- Bake in preheated oven for 15 minutes, then reduce temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake for an additional 30 minutes.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option. Additionally, honey or maple syrup can replace refined sugar for a natural sweetness. Consider using different apple varieties to customize the flavor.
Serving and Pairings
This apple pie pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a cozy twist, serve with a cup of warm spiced cider or tea.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover apple pie in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. Apple pie can also be frozen before baking; wrap it tightly in foil and store for up to 3 months.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overworking the dough can lead to a tough crust.
- Not chilling the dough properly may result in a soggy bottom.
- Using too many juicy apples can make the filling runny.
- Skipping the lattice top can trap steam and affect texture.
- Not preheating the oven can lead to uneven baking.
Helpful Tips
- Use a mix of tart and sweet apples for depth of flavor.
- Chill your tools to keep the dough cool.
- Let the pie cool before slicing to help it set.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg for extra warmth.
FAQs
Can I use frozen apples for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen apples, but make sure to thaw and drain excess moisture before using them to avoid a soggy pie.
How do I know when the pie is done?
The pie is ready when the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling through the slits in the crust.
Can I make the crust ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pie crust and refrigerate it for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.
What apples are best for apple pie?
Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, and Braeburn apples are recommended for their perfect balance of tartness and sweetness.
How can I prevent a soggy bottom crust?
Pre-baking the crust for about 10 minutes before adding the filling can help prevent sogginess.
Conclusion
This apple pie recipe brings together the goodness of fresh apples and a buttery crust, creating a dessert that’s sure to please. With simple steps and a touch of love, you can bring this classic treat to your table, making memories with every bite.
Apple Pie Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter chilled and diced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 6 to 8 tablespoons ice water
- 6 to 8 apples Granny Smith and Honeycrisp recommended
- ¾ cup sugar
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon butter for dotting
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix flour, salt, and sugar for the crust.
- Add diced butter and mix until crumbly.
- Stir in ice water gradually until dough forms.
- Divide dough in half, shape into disks, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Peel, core, and slice the apples into a large bowl.
- Add sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice to the apples, and toss to coat.
- Roll out one disk of dough on a floured surface and place it in a pie dish.
- Fill the crust with apple mixture and dot with butter.
- Roll out the second disk and create a lattice top; seal edges.
- Cut slits for steam and brush with an egg wash if desired.
- Bake in preheated oven for 15 minutes, then reduce temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake for an additional 30 minutes.
