Indulge in the classic comfort of a homemade apple pie that’s bursting with flavors and nostalgia. This timeless dessert features tender, juicy apples enveloped in a flaky, buttery crust, all infused with warm spices and a hint of sweetness. Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a cozy weeknight treat, this apple pie will become a cherished favorite.
Ingredients:
For the Pie Crust:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
- 6 to 8 tablespoons ice water
For the Apple Filling:
- 6 to 8 medium apples (such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji), peeled, cored, and sliced
- ¾ cup granulated sugar (adjust based on apple sweetness)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for thickening)
- 1 tablespoon butter, to dot on top
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon milk (for egg wash)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the flour, salt, and sugar.
- Cut in Butter: Add the chilled, diced butter. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add Ice Water: Stir in the ice water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough begins to come together.
- Form and Chill: Divide the dough into two halves, shape into discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Step 2: Prepare the Apple Filling
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and flour. Toss until the apples are well coated. Let the mixture sit for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Roll Out Dough: On a floured surface, roll out one disc of dough into a 12-inch circle. Place it in a 9-inch pie pan, ensuring it covers the edges.
- Fill the Pie: Pour the apple mixture into the crust, making sure to distribute the apples evenly. Dot the filling with small pieces of butter.
- Top Crust: Roll out the second disc of dough and place it over the filling. Seal the edges by crimping them with your fingers or a fork. Cut slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
Step 4: Bake the Pie
- Prepare Egg Wash: In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and milk. Brush this mixture over the top crust for a beautiful 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 35-45 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the crust is golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for at least 2 hours before slicing. Serve warm, optionally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Conclusion:
This homemade apple pie is more than just a dessert; it’s a warm hug on a plate that brings family and friends together. Enjoy the blend of sweet and tart apples, the aromatic spices, and the buttery crust that creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Your kitchen will smell divine, and each slice will be a delightful reminder of cherished memories.