Classic Apple Pie Recipe A Slice of Comfort

There’s something undeniably heartwarming about the aroma of a freshly baked apple pie. This classic dessert, with its flaky crust and tender, spiced apple filling, is a staple in many homes. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this apple pie recipe is sure to bring comfort and joy to your table.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cut into small cubes
• 1/4 to 1/2 cup ice water

For the Filling:

• 6 to 7 cups thinly sliced, peeled apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix)
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Assembly:

• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• 1 tablespoon sugar (for sprinkling on top)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust:

1. In a large bowl, mix the flour, salt, and sugar.
2. Add the chilled butter cubes and, using a pastry cutter or your fingers, blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add ice water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough begins to come together. Be careful not to add too much water.
4. Divide the dough in half, shape each half into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least an hour.

2. Make the Filling:

1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Toss until the apples are evenly coated.
2. Let the mixture sit for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

3. Assemble the Pie:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disk of dough to fit a 9-inch pie dish, leaving some overhang.
3. Transfer the dough to the pie dish and gently press it into the edges.
4. Pour the apple filling into the crust, mounding it slightly in the center.
5. Roll out the second disk of dough and place it over the filling. Trim any excess dough, leaving about an inch overhang. Tuck the overhang under the bottom crust edge and crimp to seal.
6. Cut a few small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.

4. Bake the Pie:

1. Brush the top crust with the beaten egg and sprinkle with sugar.
2. Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips and bake for 20 minutes.
3. Reduce the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and continue baking for 40-50 minutes, until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
4. If the edges of the crust start to brown too quickly, cover them with foil.

5. Cool and Serve:

1. Allow the pie to cool for at least 2 hours before serving. This helps the filling set and makes slicing easier.
2. Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat.

Tips for the Perfect Apple Pie

• Choose the Right Apples: A mix of tart and sweet apples creates a well-balanced filling. Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are great choices.
• Keep the Butter Cold: Cold butter is key to a flaky crust. If the dough gets too warm while you’re working with it, pop it back in the fridge for a few minutes.
• Don’t Overfill: Mound the filling slightly in the center, but avoid overstuffing to prevent the pie from bubbling over.

Conclusion

Baking an apple pie is not just about creating a delicious dessert; it’s about the process and the memories made along the way. Whether you’re baking with family or enjoying a quiet afternoon in the kitchen, this classic apple pie recipe is sure to become a cherished favorite. Enjoy the sweet, spiced aroma and the warm, comforting flavors of a homemade apple pie.