APPLE PIES

Homemade Apple Pie: A Classic Dessert Delight

Introduction

Homemade Apple Pie is an all-time classic dessert that evokes feelings of comfort and nostalgia. With a buttery, flaky crust and a sweet and spiced apple filling, it’s a dessert that’s loved by many. This recipe will guide you through the steps to create your very own homemade apple pie from scratch. Whether you’re baking it for a special occasion or a cozy family dinner, the aroma of a freshly baked apple pie is sure to delight your senses.

Ingredients

For the Pie Crust:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 6-8 tablespoons ice water

For the Apple Filling:

• 6-7 medium-sized apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• A pinch of salt
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces

For Assembly:

• 1 egg (for egg wash)
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (for dusting)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pie Crust:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, and sugar.
2. Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, and mix just until the dough begins to come together. Be careful not to overmix.
4. Divide the dough into two equal portions, shape each into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

2. Preheat Your Oven:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place a baking sheet on the center rack to catch any potential drips during baking.

3. Prepare the Apple Filling:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the thinly sliced apples, granulated sugar, all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, salt, and lemon juice. Toss until the apples are evenly coated with the mixture.

4. Roll Out the Pie Crust:

1. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one of the chilled pie crust discs into a circle large enough to line a 9-inch (23 cm) pie dish. Carefully transfer the crust to the pie dish, pressing it gently against the bottom and sides.

5. Add the Apple Filling:

1. Pour the prepared apple filling into the pie crust, spreading it out evenly.
2. Dot the top of the filling with small pieces of unsalted butter.

6. Roll Out the Top Crust:

1. Roll out the second chilled pie crust disc into a circle.
2. Place the top crust over the apple filling.

7. Seal and Decorate:

1. Trim any excess dough hanging over the edges of the pie dish.
2. Press the edges of the top and bottom crusts together to seal the pie. You can use a fork or your fingers to create a decorative edge.
3. Cut a few small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking.

8. Brush with Egg Wash:

1. In a small bowl, beat the egg to create an egg wash. Brush the top crust with the egg wash.

9. Bake:

1. Place the pie in the preheated oven on the baking sheet.
2. Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 45-55 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown, and the filling is bubbling.

10. Cool and Serve:

1. Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours before serving. This allows the filling to set.
2. Serve your Homemade Apple Pie warm or at room temperature. Optionally, you can sprinkle the top with a tablespoon of granulated sugar before serving.

Conclusion

Homemade Apple Pie is a timeless dessert that brings warmth and comfort to any occasion. With a flaky, homemade crust and a deliciously spiced apple filling, it’s a dessert that never goes out of style. Whether you serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, your homemade apple pie is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy this classic dessert delight with family and friends!