Desserts Mason Williams December 28, 2024 0 Comments

Homemade Apple Pie Recipe

There’s something magical about a homemade apple pie. The aroma of cinnamon and apples baking in the oven can transport you back to simpler times. Whether it’s for a holiday gathering, a cozy weekend treat, or just because you’re craving something sweet, making apple pie from scratch is always a rewarding experience. With this easy apple pie recipe, you’ll create a dessert that’s both nostalgic and delicious.

Table of Contents

Why Apple Pie Feels Like Home

Growing up, apple pie was a staple in our family. I remember my grandmother standing by the kitchen counter, peeling apples with the skill of an artist. She’d hum old songs as she worked, occasionally handing me a slice of apple sprinkled with cinnamon and sugar. Those moments are etched in my memory and have inspired me to perfect my own apple pie recipe.

Homemade apple pie represents more than just dessert; it’s a slice of comfort, a way to bring people together, and a reminder that sometimes the best things in life are simple.

Ingredients for the Perfect Homemade Apple Pie

To make this classic dessert, you’ll need a handful of simple ingredients, many of which you might already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Crust:

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup unsalted butter (cold, cut into small cubes)
1/4 cup ice water (more if needed)
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon sugar (optional, for a hint of sweetness)

For the Filling:

6-8 medium 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
1/8 teaspoon ground cloves (optional, for depth)
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon unsalted butter (to dot on top of the filling)

For the Egg Wash:

1 egg (beaten)
1 tablespoon milk

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Apple Pie

1. Prepare the Pie Crust

The foundation of any great apple pie is a flaky, buttery crust. Here’s how to make it:

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and sugar.
Add the cold butter cubes and use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently with a fork until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overwork it.
Divide the dough in half, shape each portion into a disk, wrap them in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least an hour.

2. Prepare the Apple Filling

Peel, core, and slice the apples into even slices, about 1/4-inch thick. Place them in a large bowl.
Add the granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves (if using), and lemon juice. Toss everything together until the apples are evenly coated. Let the mixture sit for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

3. Assemble the Pie

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Roll out one disk of dough on a floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Gently transfer it to the dish, pressing it into the bottom and sides.
Fill the crust with the apple mixture, arranging the slices to minimize gaps. Dot the filling with small pieces of butter.
Roll out the second disk of dough and place it over the apples. Trim and crimp the edges to seal. Cut a few slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape, or create a lattice pattern for a decorative touch.

4. Add the Egg Wash

In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and milk. Brush this mixture over the top crust for a golden, glossy finish.

5. Bake the Pie

Place the pie on the middle rack of your oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. If the edges start to brown too quickly, cover them with aluminum foil.

6. Cool and Serve

Let the pie cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours before serving. This allows the filling to set properly. Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for the ultimate indulgence.

Tips for Making Perfect Apple Pie

Choosing the Right Apples

Not all apples are created equal when it comes to baking. Granny Smith apples are tart and hold their shape well, making them a popular choice. Honeycrisp apples add a touch of sweetness and juiciness. Combining different apple varieties can give your pie a more complex flavor.

Perfecting the Crust

Keep it Cold: Use cold butter and ice water to ensure a flaky crust. Warm ingredients can lead to a tough pastry.
Don’t Overmix: Overworking the dough can develop gluten, making the crust chewy instead of tender.
Chill Between Steps: Refrigerating the dough before rolling and after assembling the pie helps it hold its shape during baking.

Avoiding a Soggy Bottom

To prevent a soggy crust, consider blind-baking the bottom crust for 10-15 minutes before adding the filling. Another trick is to sprinkle a thin layer of breadcrumbs or crushed graham crackers on the crust before adding the apples.

Conclusion

Homemade apple pie is more than just a dessert—it’s a cherished tradition, a labor of love, and a symbol of home. This easy apple pie recipe combines a buttery, flaky crust with a perfectly spiced apple filling to create a treat that’s sure to become a family favorite. So grab your rolling pin, preheat your oven, and let the magic of apple pie fill your kitchen. There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of baking a pie from scratch and sharing it with the ones you love.

FAQs About Apple Pie

1. Can I use store-bought crust?

Absolutely! While homemade crust adds a special touch, a high-quality store-bought crust can save time without sacrificing flavor.

2. How do I store apple pie?

Store leftover pie at room temperature for up to 2 days, covered with foil or plastic wrap. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to 5 days.

3. Can I freeze apple pie?

Yes! You can freeze apple pie before or after baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. If freezing an unbaked pie, bake it straight from the freezer, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.

4. Why is my filling runny?

Runny filling can result from not letting the pie cool completely or using overly juicy apples. Adding a bit more flour or cornstarch to the filling can help thicken it.