Classic Apple Pie Recipe

Here’s a classic recipe for a homemade Apple Pie, perfect for any occasion where you want a warm, comforting dessert.

Ingredients:

For the Pie Crust:

• 2 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes
• 1/4 to 1/2 cup ice water

For the Apple Filling:

• 6 to 8 large apples (a mix of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp is ideal)
• 2/3 cup sugar
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, chopped into small pieces
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Assembly:

• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Additional sugar for sprinkling on top

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pie Crust:
   • In a large bowl, mix flour, salt, and sugar. Add cold, cubed butter and use a pastry blender to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
   • Gradually add ice water, stirring until the dough comes together but is not sticky. You may not need all the water.
   • Divide the dough in half, form into discs, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least one hour.
2. Make the Apple Filling:
   • Peel, core, and slice the apples. In a large bowl, toss apple slices with sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
   • Stir in vanilla extract to coat the apple slices thoroughly.
3. Assemble the Pie:
   • Roll out one disc of dough on a lightly floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie plate. Transfer the dough to the pie plate and trim the edges.
   • Fill with the apple mixture and dot with pieces of butter.
   • Roll out the second disc of dough and place over the filling. Trim excess dough and crimp the edges to seal. Cut slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
   • Brush the top crust with egg wash and sprinkle with sugar.
4. Bake:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Place the pie on a baking sheet and bake for about 50 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
   • If the edges brown too quickly, cover them with foil during baking.
5. Cool and Serve:
   • Allow the pie to cool on a wire rack for at least two hours before serving to let the filling set.

Tips:

• Apple Variety: Using a mix of apples gives the pie a balanced flavor and texture.
• Chilling the Dough: Ensure both the dough and the filling are cold before assembly to prevent the crust from becoming soggy.
• Serving: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra treat.

This Apple Pie recipe is a testament to the simplicity and deliciousness of traditional baking, providing a perfect blend of sweet, tart, and spice in every bite!