A Heartwarming Recipe for Grandma’s Classic Apple Pie
There’s a unique magic that fills the air when you step into my grandmother’s kitchen—warmth, love, and the delectable scents of her famous apple pie. Every autumn, as the leaves turned to stunning shades of amber and crimson, she would gather us around the rustic oak table, her hands deftly weaving crust, while the sweet-tart apples simmered on the stove. This Apple Pie was not just dessert; it was a celebration of togetherness and tradition.
As the pie baked, the aroma danced throughout the house, drawing family and friends into its embrace. It’s this recipe that captures the essence of those cherished moments, making every bite a nostalgic journey back to lazy fall afternoons spent with loved ones. With its flaky crust and perfectly spiced filling, this pie is sure to capture hearts in every family kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Apple Pie
- Classic Flavor: A delightful blend of sweet and tart apples.
- Comforting Dessert: Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy evenings at home.
- Customizable: Easily adjust spices and sweeteners to your taste.
- One-Bowl Recipe: Minimal mess, maximum flavor.
- Kid-Friendly: A delicious way to involve kids in the cooking process.
Ingredients
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For the Crust:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
- 6 to 8 tablespoons ice water
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For the Filling:
- 6 to 8 medium apples (a mix of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon butter (for dotting)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Pie Crust
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar.
- Cut in Butter: Add diced butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add Ice Water: Stir in ice water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together.
- Chill: Divide the dough in half, shape into discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Make the Filling
- Prepare Apples: Peel, core, and slice the apples into thin wedges.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, toss the apples with sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Let it sit for about 15 minutes.
Assemble the Pie
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Roll Out Dough: On a floured surface, roll out one disc of dough to fit your pie pan.
- Fill Pie Shell: Pour the apple mixture into the crust, placing dots of butter on top.
- Top Crust: Roll out the second disc of dough and cover the filling. Seal and flute the edges, then cut slits for steam to escape.
- Bake: Bake for 15 minutes, then reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for 35-45 minutes until golden brown and filling is bubbling.
Tips & Variations
- Apple Varieties: Experiment with different types of apples, such as Fuji or Braeburn, for varying flavors.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of allspice or cloves for more complexity.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blend.
- Sweetness Level: Adjust the sugar based on your taste and the tartness of the apples.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Freeze unbaked pie for up to 3 months; bake directly from frozen, adding 10-15 minutes to baking time.
- Reheating: Warm individual slices in the microwave or reheat the entire pie in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes.
Nutritional Information
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Calories: Approximately 250 calories per slice
- Servings: 8 slices
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use pre-made crust?
Yes! Store-bought pie crust works perfectly for this recipe.
2. What kind of apples are best for apple pie?
A mix of tart apples like Granny Smith and sweet apples like Honeycrisp offers the best flavor balance.
3. How can I tell when my apple pie is done?
Look for a golden-brown crust and bubbling filling. A fork should easily pierce the apples.
4. Can I make this pie vegan?
Yes! Substitute butter with plant-based alternatives and use a vegan egg wash.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
- Serve with freshly whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
- For a fun twist, enjoy with spiced cider or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat.
Final Thoughts
Baking this classic apple pie not only fills your home with delightful aromas but also creates lasting memories with those you love. I’d love to hear how your pie turns out! Feel free to share your thoughts or variations in the comments below and let’s inspire each other to keep the tradition alive! Happy baking!