Apple pie is a timeless dessert that brings warmth and comfort to every bite. This recipe takes it to the next level, creating a pie so tender and flavorful that it literally melts in your mouth. With a perfectly flaky crust and a luscious apple filling infused with cinnamon and caramelized sweetness, this homemade apple pie will become your new favorite treat. Follow this step-by-step guide to achieve a bakery-style masterpiece in your own kitchen.
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter (cold and cubed)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 6-8 tablespoons ice-cold water
For the Filling:
- 6 medium apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (cut into small pieces)
For the Egg Wash:
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon milk
Instructions:
- Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar. Add cold butter cubes and use a pastry cutter or your hands to mix until the texture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together. Divide into two discs, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least an hour.
- Prepare the Apple Filling: Peel, core, and slice the apples thinly. Place them in a large bowl and toss with granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Let the mixture sit for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out one dough disc into a 12-inch circle. Carefully place it into a 9-inch pie pan, pressing gently into the bottom and sides. Trim any excess overhang.
- Fill the Pie: Pour the apple mixture into the prepared crust, spreading evenly. Dot with small pieces of butter to enhance the richness of the filling.
- Top the Pie: Roll out the second dough disc into another 12-inch circle. You can either place it as a full top crust or cut it into strips for a lattice pattern. If using a full crust, cut small slits to allow steam to escape.
- Seal and Brush: Trim the edges of the crust, press them together, and crimp for a decorative look. In a small bowl, whisk the egg and milk to create an egg wash. Brush over the top crust to achieve a golden, glossy finish.
- Bake the Pie: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. If the crust browns too quickly, cover the edges with foil.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the pie to cool for at least 2 hours to let the filling set properly. Serve warm or at room temperature with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
This apple pie is irresistibly soft, with a perfectly balanced sweetness and a melt-in-your-mouth texture that will leave everyone craving more. Try this recipe, and enjoy the best homemade apple pie ever!