# Grandmother’s Heirloom Apple Pie
## Introduction
As the crisp autumn air settles in, memories of my grandmother’s kitchen come rushing back. I can still hear her humming old tunes as she rolled out dough for her legendary apple pie, the scent of cinnamon wafting through the house. It was a simple tradition; each fall, we would gather the first apples from the orchard and spend the afternoon baking together. This recipe isn’t just a dish; it’s a slice of our family history, infused with love, laughter, and sweetness. Whether you're celebrating a holiday, a Sunday dinner, or simply the joy of a home-cooked meal, this apple pie is sure to bring warmth and comfort to your table.
What makes this pie particularly special? The combination of tart and sweet apples, enveloped in a perfectly flaky crust, creates an irresistible dessert that feels just like home.
## Why You'll Love This Apple Pie
- **Classic Flavors:** A timeless dessert that brings warmth to any season.
- **Family Tradition:** Share a piece of history with your loved ones.
- **Customizable:** Use a mix of your favorite apples or add spices to suit your taste.
- **One-Dish Dessert:** Easy to assemble and bake in one pie dish.
- **Kid-Approved:** Kids love helping with this recipe, making it a fun family activity!
## Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- 6-8 tbsp ice water
- 6 cups apples, peeled and diced (Granny Smith and Honeycrisp work best)
- ¾ cup sugar
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
## Step-by-Step Instructions
### Step 1: Make the Pie Crust
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar.
2. Add the chilled, cubed butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough holds together.
4. Divide the dough in half, shape them into discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least one hour.
### Step 2: Prepare the Filling
1. In a large bowl, combine the diced apples, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and cornstarch. Toss until well coated.
2. Let the filling sit for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
### Step 3: Assemble the Pie
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out one dough disc on a floured surface to fit your pie dish.
3. Transfer the crust to the pie dish and fill it with the apple mixture.
4. Roll out the second dough disc and place it over the filling, sealing the edges.
5. Cut slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape, then brush with beaten egg.
### Step 4: Bake the Pie
1. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
2. Reduce temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for another 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
3. Allow pie to cool for at least 2 hours before slicing.
## Tips & Variations
- **Apple Variety:** Use a mix of tart and sweet apples for a more complex flavor.
- **Spices:** Add additional spices like allspice or ginger for a unique twist.
- **Dairy-Free Option:** Substitute butter with a dairy-free margarine.
- **Sweetness:** Feel free to adjust the sugar depending on the sweetness of the apples.
## Storage Instructions
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- For longer storage, cover the pie tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
- To reheat, bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through.
## Nutritional Information
- **Prep time:** 30 minutes
- **Cook time:** 60 minutes
- **Total time:** 90 minutes
- **Calories per serving:** Approximately 250
- **Servings:** 8
## Frequently Asked Questions
- **Can I use pre-made pie crust?** Absolutely! Store-bought crust can save time and still taste great.
- **Are there alternatives to sugar?** Yes, you can use honey or maple syrup for a healthier option.
- **What apples are best for pie?** Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, and Fuji are all excellent choices.
- **How long should I let the pie cool before serving?** It's best to let it cool for at least 2 hours to set the filling.
## Serving Suggestions or Pairings
Pair your warm apple pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. A warm cup of spiced apple cider complements the flavors beautifully, making for a comforting autumn treat.
## Final Thoughts
Baking this classic apple pie is not only about the delicious flavors; it's about capturing the essence of tradition and sharing it with those you love. I encourage you to get your family involved and create your treasured memories in the kitchen. If you try this recipe, please share your versions and let me know in the comments how it turns out!
