Description
This classic homemade apple pie features a buttery, flaky crust and a spiced apple filling using Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples. Perfectly balanced with cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice, this recipe delivers a comforting dessert that is ideal for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Pie Crust
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
- 1/4 to 1/2 cup ice water
For the Filling
- 6 to 7 cups thinly sliced peeled apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp recommended)
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon butter
For the Egg Wash
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 tablespoon milk
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to prepare for baking the pie.
- Make Dry Mixture: In a large bowl, combine 2 1/2 cups flour, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1 tablespoon sugar to create the base for the pie crust.
- Incorporate Butter: Cut in 1 cup diced unsalted butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs, ensuring a flaky crust.
- Add Ice Water: Gradually stir in ice water, a tablespoon at a time, until a dough ball forms. Divide the dough into two portions.
- Chill Dough: Roll each dough half into circles, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
- Prepare Filling: In another bowl, mix sliced apples with 3/4 cup sugar, 2 tablespoons flour, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg, and 1 tablespoon lemon juice for a flavorful filling.
- Roll Bottom Crust: Roll out one dough circle to fit your pie pan, then place it gently into the pan ensuring an even layer.
- Add Filling: Fill the pastry-lined pan with the apple mixture, then dot with 1 tablespoon butter to enhance richness.
- Roll Top Crust: Roll out the second dough circle and lay it over the filling. Trim excess dough and pinch edges to seal thoroughly.
- Create Steam Vents: Cut small slits in the top crust to let steam escape during baking, preventing sogginess.
- Apply Egg Wash: Mix egg yolk with 1 tablespoon milk and brush over the crust to achieve a golden, shiny finish.
- Initial Bake: Bake in the preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 15 minutes to set the crust.
- Lower Temperature and Continue Baking: Reduce oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 35 to 45 minutes more, until the apples are tender and the crust is golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Allow pie to cool slightly on a rack before slicing and serving to set the filling and improve flavor.
Notes
- Chilling the dough ensures a flaky and tender crust.
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a balanced sweetness and tartness.
- Make sure to cut slits on the top crust to avoid a soggy pie.
- Adjust sugar in the filling according to the sweetness of your apples.
- Serve warm with vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.
