Why Make This Recipe
Apple pie is a classic dessert that many people love. It combines sweet, juicy apples with a flaky crust, making it a delightful treat for any occasion. Making apple pie at home allows you to enjoy fresh flavors and the comforting aroma of baking. It’s perfect for family gatherings, holidays, or just a cozy day at home.
How to Make Apple Pie
Ingredients:
- 1 Perfect Pie Crust Recipe
- ¼ cup butter
- 8 cups thinly sliced apples (peeled and cored)
- 2/3 cup lightly packed brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon water
- Coarse sugar (optional)
Directions:
- Set aside a 9-inch pie plate and preheat the oven to 425°F.
- Melt the butter in a large pot over medium-low heat.
- Add the apples, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, lemon juice, and salt. Stir together and cook for about 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the apples soften. Remove from heat and let cool.
- Divide the prepared pie dough in half if it is not already in two discs. Lightly flour a work surface and roll out one disc to about 1/8-inch thick, making it a bit larger than your pie plate. Transfer the rolled dough into the pie plate, gently pressing it into the bottom.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water to create an egg wash. Set aside.
- Pour the cooled apple filling into the prepared crust. Roll out the second disc of dough and place it on top of the pie. Alternatively, you can cut this dough into strips and create a braided top.
- Cut vents in the crust if you did not braid it. Trim any excess dough, and crimp the edges with your fingers to seal the pie.
- Brush the top of the pie with the egg wash and sprinkle with coarse sugar if you wish.
- Bake the pie for 15 minutes at 425°F. Then reduce the temperature to 350°F and continue baking until the crust is golden and the filling bubbles through the vents, about 40 minutes. If the crust starts to brown too much, cover it with aluminum foil. Let the pie cool before serving.
How to Serve Apple Pie
Apple pie is best served warm or at room temperature. You can enjoy it plain or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream on top. It makes a wonderful dessert for any meal and is always a favorite among guests.
How to Store Apple Pie
To store apple pie, let it cool completely. Cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and keep it in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, you can freeze it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to three months.
Tips to Make Apple Pie
- Use a mix of sweet and tart apples for the best flavor. Granny Smith and Honeycrisp work well together.
- Make sure your butter is cold for a flakier crust.
- Don’t skip the lemon juice; it enhances the flavor of the apples.
- Allow the pie to cool for at least an hour before slicing to let the filling set.
Variation
You can customize your apple pie by adding other fruits like cranberries or raisins, or by incorporating spices like nutmeg for extra flavor. Some people like to add a crumb topping instead of a top crust for a different texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen pie crust?
Yes, you can use a frozen pie crust. Just make sure to follow the instructions on the packaging for best results.What kind of apples are best for apple pie?
A mix of tart and sweet apples, such as Granny Smith and Gala or Honeycrisp, works best for a balanced flavor.How do I know when my apple pie is done?
Your apple pie is done when the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling through the vents in the crust.
Classic Apple Pie
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 65 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful classic dessert featuring sweet, juicy apples in a flaky crust, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 Perfect Pie Crust Recipe
- ¼ cup butter
- 8 cups thinly sliced apples (peeled and cored)
- 2/3 cup lightly packed brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon water
- Coarse sugar (optional)
Instructions
- Set aside a 9-inch pie plate and preheat the oven to 425°F.
- Melt the butter in a large pot over medium-low heat.
- Add the apples, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, lemon juice, and salt. Stir together and cook for about 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the apples soften. Remove from heat and let cool.
- Divide the prepared pie dough in half if it is not already in two discs. Lightly flour a work surface and roll out one disc to about 1/8-inch thick, making it a bit larger than your pie plate. Transfer the rolled dough into the pie plate, gently pressing it into the bottom.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water to create an egg wash. Set aside.
- Pour the cooled apple filling into the prepared crust. Roll out the second disc of dough and place it on top of the pie, or cut this dough into strips for a braided top.
- Cut vents in the crust if you did not braid it. Trim any excess dough, and crimp the edges with your fingers to seal the pie.
- Brush the top of the pie with the egg wash and sprinkle with coarse sugar if desired.
- Bake the pie for 15 minutes at 425°F. Then reduce the temperature to 350°F and continue baking until the crust is golden and the filling bubbles through the vents, about 40 minutes. If the crust starts to brown too much, cover it with aluminum foil. Let the pie cool before serving.
Notes
Serve warm or at room temperature, optionally with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. Store in the refrigerator for up to four days or freeze for up to three months.