Apple pie is a quintessential American dessert, cherished for its harmonious blend of sweet and tart apple filling encased in a flaky, buttery crust. This classic treat is not only a staple at holiday gatherings but also a comforting finale to any meal. Crafting a homemade apple pie may seem daunting, but with a straightforward recipe and quality ingredients, you can create a pie that rivals any bakery’s offering.
- Preparation Time: Approximately 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: About 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
- Servings: 8 slices
Ingredients:
- 1 package (14.1 ounces) of pastry for a double-crust 9-inch pie
- 7 cups of apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Directions:
- Prepare the Oven and Pie Dish:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Line a 9-inch pie plate with one of the pastry crusts, ensuring it covers the bottom and sides evenly.
- Make the Apple Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced apples, granulated sugar, all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, salt, and ground nutmeg. Toss the mixture gently to ensure the apple slices are evenly coated with the sugar and spices.
- Assemble the Pie:
- Transfer the apple filling into the prepared pie crust, spreading it out to create an even layer.
- Dot the filling with small pieces of the unsalted butter, distributing them across the top.
- Place the second pastry crust over the filling. Trim any excess dough from the edges, then press and crimp the edges together to seal the pie. Use a sharp knife to cut several small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking.
- Bake the Pie:
- Position the pie on the middle rack of the preheated oven. Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 10 minutes.
- After 10 minutes, reduce the oven temperature to 300°F (150°C) and continue baking for an additional 40 to 50 minutes, or until the crust achieves a golden-brown color and the apples are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Cool and Serve:
- Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and place it on a wire rack to cool. Allow the pie to cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing. This cooling period helps the filling set, making it easier to serve neat slices.
By following this detailed recipe, you’ll be able to bake a classic apple pie that’s both delicious and visually appealing. Whether served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoyed on its own, this pie is sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.
Nutrition (per serving):
- Calories: 402
- Total Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 8mg
- Sodium: 374mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 61g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 35g
- Protein: 2g
Tips for Success:
- Apple Selection: Choose a mix of firm, tart apples like Granny Smith and sweeter varieties such as Gala or McIntosh. This combination provides a balanced flavor and prevents the filling from becoming too mushy.
- Preventing a Soggy Crust: To avoid a soggy bottom crust, ensure the apple filling is not overly juicy. If your apples are particularly juicy, consider adding an extra tablespoon of flour to the filling to help thicken the juices during baking.
- Enhancing Flavor: For added depth of flavor, incorporate a teaspoon of lemon zest into the apple mixture. The citrus notes complement the sweetness of the apples and the warmth of the spices.
