There’s nothing quite like a warm slice of homemade apple pie, with its fragrant aroma and irresistible taste. This recipe captures the essence of fall with sweet, cinnamon-spiced apples nestled in a buttery, flaky crust. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dessert, this apple pie is sure to become a cherished favorite in your home. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that combines simplicity with the joy of baking!
Ingredients
– 6 cups sliced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon butter, diced
– 1 package of refrigerated pie crusts (or homemade)
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 8 servings. Preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, and cooking time is about 45-50 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 slice) contains approximately:
– Calories: 250
– Total Fat: 12g
– Saturated Fat: 5g
– Carbohydrates: 35g
– Sugars: 20g
– Protein: 2g
This nutritional information is based on one serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). 2. In a large bowl, combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Toss until apples are well-coated. 3. Roll out one pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie pan. 4. Pour the apple mixture into the prepared pie crust, spreading it evenly. 5. Dot the apple filling with diced butter. 6. Roll out the second pie crust and place it over the filling. Cut slits for venting. 7. Seal the edges by crimping them with your fingers or a fork. 8. Brush the top crust with the beaten egg for a golden finish. 9. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. 10. Reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for 30-35 minutes until apples are tender and crust is golden brown. 
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute granulated sugar with coconut sugar for a healthier option. Additionally, feel free to mix in some dried cranberries or raisins for added flavor and texture. Use gluten-free pie crusts if you’re avoiding gluten.
Serving and Pairings
Serve warm, topped with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a delightful dessert. Pairing it with a cup of hot cinnamon tea or coffee enhances the cozy experience.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover apple pie in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. Apple pie can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just ensure it’s tightly wrapped.
Cooking Mistakes
– Overfilling the pie crust can cause spillage; keep it to a reasonable amount. – Not pre-cooking the apples can lead to a soggy bottom crust. – Skipping the egg wash results in a less appealing crust. – Using unbalanced spices can overpower the apple flavor. – Forgetting to vent the top crust can lead to an overflow of filling.
Helpful Tips
– Use a mix of apple varieties for a more complex flavor. – Allow the pie to cool for at least 2 hours before slicing for cleaner cuts. – If the crust browns too quickly, cover the edges with foil. – Keep your apples cold until ready to bake for a better texture. – Experiment with spices to find your perfect flavor balance.
FAQs
How do I prevent a soggy crust?
To prevent a soggy bottom crust, consider pre-baking the crust for 10 minutes before adding the apple filling. This helps create a barrier against moisture.
Can I make the pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pie a day in advance. Bake it and store it in the fridge, then reheat it before serving for the best taste.
What are the best apples for apple pie?
Granny Smith apples are ideal for their tartness, but mixing them with sweeter varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji creates a delightful balance.
How do I know when the pie is done?
The pie is done when the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling through the slits in the top crust.
Can I use a different crust?
Absolutely! You can use a graham cracker crust or even a crumb topping for a different texture and flavor.
Conclusion
This apple pie recipe is a timeless classic that brings warmth and comfort to any gathering. With its perfect blend of sweet apples and flaky crust, it’s sure to delight your family and friends. Enjoy the process of baking and savor each delicious slice!
Apple Pie
Ingredients
- 6 cups sliced apples Granny Smith or Honeycrisp
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon butter diced
- 1 package of refrigerated pie crusts
- 1 egg beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a large bowl, combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Toss until apples are well-coated.
- Roll out one pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie pan.
- Pour the apple mixture into the prepared pie crust, spreading it evenly.
- Dot the apple filling with diced butter.
- Roll out the second pie crust and place it over the filling. Cut slits for venting.
- Seal the edges by crimping them with your fingers or a fork.
- Brush the top crust with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes.
- Reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for 30-35 minutes until apples are tender and crust is golden brown.
Nutrition
