A step-by-step recipe for making a classic and delicious Apple Pie:
Ingredients:
For the Pie Crust:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- 6-8 tablespoons ice water
For the Apple Filling:
- 6-7 medium-sized apples (such as Granny Smith), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons butter, cut into small pieces
For Egg Wash (Optional):
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon milk or water
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pie Crust:
1.1 In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and sugar.
1.2 Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
1.3 Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, and mix until the dough starts to come together. Be careful not to overwork the dough.
1.4 Divide the dough into two equal portions, shape each into a disc, and wrap in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour or until firm.
2. Prepare the Apple Filling:
2.1 In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Toss until the apples are well coated. Let the mixture sit for about 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Roll Out the Pie Crust:
3.1 Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
3.2 On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disc of the chilled pie dough into a circle large enough to fit your pie dish. Gently transfer the dough to the pie dish, pressing it into the bottom and along the sides.
4. Add the Apple Filling:
4.1 Pour the prepared apple filling into the pie crust, spreading it evenly.
4.2 Dot the filling with small pieces of butter to add richness.
5. Roll Out the Top Crust:
5.1 Roll out the second disc of pie dough into a circle. You can keep it whole to cover the pie or cut it into strips for a lattice design.
6. Assemble and Seal the Pie:
6.1 Place the rolled-out top crust over the apple filling. If using a whole crust, make a few slits on the top to allow steam to escape.
6.2 If making a lattice crust, arrange the strips over the filling in a lattice pattern.
6.3 Press the edges of the top and bottom crusts together to seal. You can crimp the edges with your fingers or use a fork to create a decorative edge.
7. Optional Egg Wash:
7.1 In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and milk or water to make an egg wash.
7.2 Brush the egg wash over the top crust for a golden and shiny finish.
8. Bake the Pie:
8.1 Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips. Bake in the preheated oven for about 45-55 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
8.2 If the edges of the crust start to brown too quickly, you can cover them with aluminum foil.
9. Cool and Serve:
9.1 Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 2-3 hours before slicing. This allows the filling to set.
10. Enjoy:
10.1 Slice and serve the apple pie on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Enjoy your homemade Apple Pie, a timeless dessert that's perfect for any occasion!