Apple Pie (classic)
Printed from Inclusive Kitchen — Apple Pie
Apple pie is a quintessential American dessert, often associated with family gatherings and holiday celebrations. This classic version showcases a flaky, buttery crust filled with a sweet and spiced apple mixture, making it a comforting treat that warms the heart and home. The combination of tart and sweet apples, along with a hint of cinnamon and nutmeg, creates a flavor profile that is both nostalgic and satisfying.
Historically, apple pie has roots that trace back to medieval Europe, but it became a symbol of American culture in the 19th century. The phrase “as American as apple pie” reflects its deep-seated place in the national consciousness. Whether served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoyed on its own, this pie is a celebration of simple ingredients coming together to create something truly special.
Making a classic apple pie is a labor of love, but the process is straightforward and rewarding. Start with a homemade crust for the best flavor and texture, or use store-bought if you're short on time. The key to a great filling is to use a mix of apples for depth of flavor; Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are a perfect pairing. As you prepare the pie, the aroma of baking apples and spices will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist sneaking a taste before it’s even out of the oven.
So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let’s get baking! Just remember, if anyone asks why you’re making pie, tell them it’s for “research” – after all, someone has to ensure it’s perfect!
Ingredients
- 2.5 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 0.75 cups granulated sugar
- 0.5 cups brown sugar
- 0.5 teaspoons salt
- 0.25 cups ice water
- 6 medium apples (Granny Smith and Honeycrisp)
- 1 teaspoons cinnamon
- 0.25 teaspoons nutmeg
- 1 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 large egg (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the pie crust. In a large mixing bowl, combine 2.5 cups of all-purpose flour and 0.5 teaspoons of salt. Cut in 1 cup of unsalted butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This step is crucial for achieving that flaky texture.
- Gradually add 0.25 cups of ice water, mixing until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overwork the dough; you want it to be tender and flaky. Divide the dough in half, shape into discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- While the dough chills, prepare the apple filling. Peel, core, and slice 6 medium apples, combining Granny Smith and Honeycrisp for a balanced flavor. Toss the apple slices with 0.75 cups of granulated sugar, 0.5 cups of brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, 0.25 teaspoons of nutmeg, and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice.
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will help create a beautifully golden crust. Make sure your oven rack is positioned in the center for even baking.
- Roll out one disc of chilled dough on a floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie pan. Transfer the rolled dough to the pan, pressing it gently into the bottom and up the sides. Trim any excess dough hanging over the edges.
- Pour the prepared apple filling into the crust, spreading it evenly. Make sure to mound the apples slightly in the center, as they will shrink during baking. This ensures a full pie that doesn’t collapse.
- Roll out the second disc of dough and place it over the apple filling. You can either cut slits for a lattice top or simply cover it whole. If using a whole crust, cut a few slits in the top to allow steam to escape.
- Crimp the edges of the pie to seal it, and brush the top with a beaten egg for a shiny finish. This step adds a lovely golden color to the crust. Sprinkle a little sugar on top for extra sweetness.
- Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. This initial high heat helps set the crust.
- After 15 minutes, reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for an additional 35-45 minutes. The pie is done when the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
- Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for at least 2 hours before slicing. This cooling time allows the filling to set, making it easier to cut clean slices.
- Serve your classic apple pie warm or at room temperature, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. Enjoy the fruits of your labor and the smiles it brings!
Nutrition (per serving)
- Calories: 320
- Carbs g: 45
- Protein g: 2
- Fat g: 15
- Sugar g: 20
