Here’s a classic recipe for homemade apple pie that features a flaky crust and a deliciously spiced apple filling. This pie is perfect for any occasion, especially during the fall!
Classic Apple Pie Recipe
Ingredients:
For the Pie Crust:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cut into small cubes
- 6-8 tablespoons ice water
For the Apple Filling:
- 6-8 medium apples (a mix of sweet and tart varieties, such as Granny Smith and Honeycrisp)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar (adjust based on the sweetness of the apples)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for thickening)
- 1 tablespoon butter, cut into small pieces (for dotting)
- 1 egg (for egg wash, optional)
- 1 tablespoon milk (for egg wash, optional)
Instructions:
1. Make the Pie Crust:
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar. Add the chilled butter and mix with a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together. Divide the dough in half, shape into discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
2. Prepare the Apple Filling:
- Peel, core, and slice the apples into thin slices. In a large bowl, toss the apple slices with lemon juice, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and flour. Set aside to let the flavors meld.
3. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
4. Roll Out the Dough:
- On a floured surface, roll out one disc of dough to fit your pie pan (about 12 inches in diameter). Place the rolled-out dough into the pie pan, pressing it gently into the bottom and sides.
5. Fill the Pie:
- Pour the apple filling into the prepared pie crust, spreading it evenly. Dot the filling with small pieces of butter.
6. Top the Pie:
- Roll out the second disc of dough and place it over the apple filling. You can either cut slits in the top crust for a lattice effect or simply cover it with the whole crust. If using a whole crust, cut a few slits to allow steam to escape.
- Trim and crimp the edges to seal the pie.
7. Apply Egg Wash (Optional):
- In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and milk. Brush the egg wash over the top crust for a golden finish.
8. Bake:
- Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Then, 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. If the edges brown too quickly, cover them with foil.
9. Cool and Serve:
- Allow the pie to cool for at least 2 hours before slicing. This will help the filling set up a bit more. Serve warm or at room temperature, optionally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Tips:
- Apple Varieties: Use a mix of sweet and tart apples for the best flavor. Some good combinations include Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, and Fuji.
- Storage: Store leftover pie covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Enjoy your delicious homemade apple pie!