Classic Apple Pie: A Timeless Dessert for Every Occasion
Hello, pie enthusiasts! Today, we’re exploring the delightful world of Classic Apple Pie—a dessert that brings together the comforting flavors of sweet apples, warm spices, and a buttery, flaky crust. This quintessential American dessert is perfect for any celebration, from holiday gatherings to casual family dinners.
Apple Pie is all about the harmony of textures and flavors. The tender, juicy apples meld with the aromatic cinnamon and nutmeg, while the golden, flaky crust adds the perfect crunch. Whether served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoyed on its own, this pie is sure to bring a smile to anyone’s face.
Let’s dive into the kitchen and create a Classic Apple Pie that will fill your home with the irresistible aroma of baking apples and spices. This recipe is straightforward, and the results are nothing short of spectacular.
Classic Apple Pie Recipe
Apple Pie is a timeless dessert that combines sweet, tender apples with a buttery, flaky crust. This recipe is simple yet incredibly satisfying, making it a favorite for any occasion.
With just a few basic ingredients and some simple steps, you can create a pie that’s bursting with flavor and sure to impress. It’s perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or any time you crave a comforting dessert.
Classic Apple Pie in Our Kitchen
In our household, baking Apple Pie has become a cherished tradition. Every fall, when the apples are at their peak, my family gathers in the kitchen to prepare this delicious dessert. My husband, who usually claims not to have a sweet tooth, can’t resist a warm slice of apple pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Our kids love to help with the pie-making process, from peeling and slicing the apples to arranging the top crust. It’s a wonderful way to spend quality time together, and the result is always a pie that disappears in no time.
Over the years, this recipe has become a symbol of comfort and togetherness in our home. It’s a dessert that never fails to bring smiles and create lasting memories.
Why This Classic Apple Pie?
- Timeless Flavor: Combines sweet apples and warm spices in a buttery, flaky crust.
- Simple Ingredients: Uses basic pantry staples and fresh apples.
- Family-Friendly: A fun and easy recipe that kids can help with.
- Versatile: Perfect for holidays, celebrations, or a comforting dessert anytime.
- Impressive Presentation: Beautiful lattice crust makes it a showstopper at any gathering.
Tips
- Chilled Butter: Ensure the butter is very cold to create a flaky crust.
- Apple Variety: Use a mix of tart and sweet apples for the best flavor.
- Prevent Sogginess: Sprinkle a little flour or cornstarch on the bottom crust before adding the filling to absorb excess moisture.
- Ventilation: Don’t forget to cut slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape and prevent a soggy pie.
Substitutions and Variations
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend for the crust.
- Sugar-Free: Substitute sugars with a sugar alternative like erythritol.
- Spices: Add or adjust spices to your liking, such as ginger or cloves.
- Crumb Topping: Replace the top crust with a crumb topping made of flour, sugar, and butter.
Make a Healthier Version
- Whole Wheat Crust: Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for added fiber.
- Less Sugar: Reduce the amount of sugar in the filling or use natural sweeteners.
- Butter Alternatives: Use a plant-based butter substitute for a dairy-free option.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use store-bought pie crust? Yes, for convenience, you can use store-bought pie crust.
2. What type of apples should I use? A mix of tart and sweet apples, like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp, works best.
3. How do I store leftover pie? Store leftover pie covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
4. Can I freeze apple pie? Yes, you can freeze baked apple pie. Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
5. How do I prevent a soggy bottom crust? Sprinkle a bit of flour or cornstarch on the bottom crust before adding the filling to absorb excess moisture.
6. Can I make the pie ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the pie and refrigerate it unbaked for up to a day. Bake it just before serving for the best results.
7. What can I use instead of butter for a dairy-free pie? Use a dairy-free butter substitute or vegetable shortening for the crust.
8. How do I reheat apple pie? Reheat slices in the microwave or the whole pie in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warm.
9. Can I add other fruits to the apple pie? Yes, you can mix in berries, pears, or raisins for added flavor.
10. How do I make a lattice crust? Cut the top crust into strips and weave them over and under each other to create a lattice pattern.
Print
Apple pie
Description
Today, we’re exploring the delightful world of Classic Apple Pie—a dessert that brings together the comforting flavors of sweet apples, warm spices, and a buttery, flaky crust.
Ingredients
Apple Pie Filling:
- 10 cups sliced apples peeled, cored and sliced (about 3.5 lbs)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 3 Tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 Teaspoons ground cinnamon
- Dash of nutmeg optional
Double Pie Crust:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 2 Tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 cup butter COLD, cut into 1 inch pieces
- ½ cup ice cold water
Egg wash (optional)
- 1 egg beaten
- 1 Tablespoon milk
Instructions
Make the Crust:
-
Place all pie crust ingredients in the order listed into a food processor fitted with an “S” blade process for 15-40 seconds, or until the mixture resembles a coarse meal and holds together when pinched.
-
Remove dough from processor (it will be crumbly), transfer it to a large bowl or flat surface, and form into two, equal-sized round discs.
-
Wrap both discs of dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 60 minutes or overnight.
-
Make the filling:
-
Place the peeled and cored apples in a microwave safe dish and cook for 6 minutes, until apples are slightly soft.
-
While apples are in the microwave, in a small bowl, mix together sugar, flour cinnamon and nutmeg.
-
Once apples are finished cooking in the microwave, put them in a colander to drain excess water. Let them cool in the colander for at least 10 minutes.
-
Transfer cooled & drained apples to a bowl, add dry ingredient mixture and stir until it’s evenly distributed.
-
Putting it all together:
-
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
-
Remove crusts from refrigerator and roll into circles, about ¼ to ½ inches thick. (you may need to let them sit on the counter at room temperature for 5 minutes, or until it rolls a little easier).
-
Gently place one round crust into pie plate.
-
Pour filling into unbaked pie crust.
-
Place second crust on top of the apple pie filling and shape the edges. Cut 4 slits in the top to vent steam. (or make a lattice crust).
-
Place a pie crust shield or aluminum foil over the outer crust of the pie to protect it from burning. Remove shield in the last 10-15 minutes of baking if it doesn’t begin to brown under the shield)
-
Bake the pie on the middle/lower rack in the preheated oven for 60 minutes or until the filling begins to bubble and the top is lightly browned.
-
Let cool for at least 3 hours (the filling thickens as it cools).
-
Serve with vanilla ice cream.
-
-
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1
- Calories: 338
- Sugar: 21g
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
