Delicious Homemade Apple Pie Recipe for Sweet Treats
When it comes to classic desserts, few can compare to the beloved apple pie. With its buttery and flaky crust, sweet and spiced filling, and warm and comforting aroma, apple pie has been a staple dessert in kitchens for generations. And with this traditional apple pie recipe, you too can create a mouth-watering dessert that will have your family and friends begging for more.
What sets this particular recipe apart is its perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors. By using a combination of baking apples, such as Granny Smith apples, along with granulated sugar and brown sugar, the filling is able to achieve the ideal blend of sweetness without being overpowering. Plus, the addition of cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and lemon juice adds depth to the flavor profile.
Of course, a great apple pie is only as good as its crust. This recipe uses a shortcrust pastry that is both sturdy enough to hold up to the filling and flaky enough to melt in your mouth. And don’t worry – even if you’ve never made homemade crust before, the step-by-step instructions make it easy.
Whether you’re looking for a new twist on an old classic or just wanting to learn how to make a great apple pie from scratch, this recipe is sure to delight. So grab some fresh apples from the local orchard or grocery store and get ready to impress your taste buds (and those of your loved ones) with this delectable dessert.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Let me tell you about my all-time favorite dessert: the classic apple pie. And not just any apple pie, but a homemade, traditional apple pie. Imagine a flaky, buttery crust filled with juicy, tender apples that have been tossed in cinnamon and nutmeg for the perfect flavor balance. This pie is everything you want in a dessert – sweet but not too sweet, warm and comforting, and crowd-pleasing.
What makes this recipe so special is the time-honored ingredients and techniques used to create it. With fresh baking apples like Granny Smiths or another tart variety, lemon juice for acidity, and the perfect amount of brown sugar and spices for sweetness and depth of flavor. It’s a classic dessert that is sure to impress everyone who tries it.
This recipe also allows for customization and variations. You can add additional spices like cardamom or cloves for a more complex flavor profile. You can switch up the type of apples you use, or even mix in other fruits like pears or cranberries. And if you’re feeling extra fancy, you can try the Dutch apple pie variation, which includes a crumbly streusel topping.
But most importantly, this recipe will have your family and friends gathering around the table with their plates ready for a slice (or two) of your delicious homemade apple pie. The aroma of cinnamon wafting through your kitchen as this scrumptious dessert bakes to perfection is unbeatable.
So why will you love this recipe? Because it’s simply the best classic apple pie recipe out there. It’s comfort food at its finest – absolutely irresistible and guaranteed to become a new family favorite.
Ingredient List
Before starting to bake the Traditional Apple Pie, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients. For this recipe, you will need:
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Pie Crust: (homemade or store-bought) using shortcrust pastry.
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Apples: Granny Smith apples are recommended for a tart and crisp flavor, but you can also use other baking apples such as Jonathan, Braeburn, Honeycrisp or Golden Delicious.
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Granulated Sugar: used to sweeten the pie filling.
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Brown Sugar: enhances the flavor and adds moisture to the filling.
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Flour: helps thicken the sauce and prevent it from being too runny.
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Cornstarch or dry tapioca: another thickening agent that works well in fruit pies.
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Lemon Juice: balances out the sweetness of the apples and adds a tangy flavor.
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Ground Cinnamon and Nutmeg: essential spices that complement the apple flavor.
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Unsalted Butter: adds richness and depth of flavor.
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Salt: enhances the overall flavor of the pie.
Make sure you have these ingredients on hand before diving into this classic apple pie recipe!
The Recipe How-To
Once you have gathered all the essential ingredients, it is time to start preparing the apple pie. Don’t forget to preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) and use a 9-inch pie dish that is at least 2 inches deep.
Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust
The key to every great apple pie lies in its crust. Here’s how to make sure yours is flaky and delicious:
– Start by preparing your shortcrust pastry according to your favorite recipe or using store-bought if preferred.
– Roll out the pie crust at a thickness of about 1/4-inch. Make sure it’s large enough to fit into the bottom and sides of the prepared pie dish.
– Use a pair of kitchen scissors or a knife to trim off the edges of the crust that exceed an inch in size.
Step 2: Prepare the Apple Pie Filling
Now that you have prepared your crust, it is time to move on to the classic apple pie filling. Here’s how to do it right:
– Put 7 cups of thinly sliced apples (peeled and cored) into a large bowl.
– Add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, 3/4 cup granulated sugar, 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1/4 cup all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Mix everything together until evenly coated.
Step 3: Fill the Pie Crust with Apple Mixture
Pour the apple mixture into your pie crust and pat it down gently so that there are no gaps. Dot with small pieces of unsalted butter, which will help form a caramel-like sauce when baked.
Step 4: Add Top Crust Layer
Now it is time to add the top layer of crust. You can choose between a classic top crust or a latticework top crust. Here’s how to do it:
– If you’re doing a classic top crust, roll out another piece of dough about 1/4-inch thick in size and carefully place it over the filling.
– Alternatively, for a lattice top crust: roll out additional dough into long strips and weave them together over the filling in a lattice pattern.
Step 5: Bake & Enjoy
Bake the pie for approximately 50 minutes, or until golden brown, in a preheated oven at 375 (190C). If you want an extra crispy top layer, brush it with some milk before baking.
Once baked, leave your apple pie to cool for just about 20 minutes, then cut and enjoy! Serve with optional ice cream or whipped cream if desired.
Substitutions and Variations
Traditional apple pie is a classic dessert that many of us crave on cozy autumn days. If you’re looking to spice up this timeless dessert, let me introduce you to some exciting substitutions and variations that will transform your classic apple pie recipe.
One ingredient that can be substituted for flour or cornstarch in your apple pie filling is dry tapioca, which creates a beautiful, glossy texture and absorbs more liquid than other thickeners. Lemon juice also acts as a great substitute, as the acid in the juice prevents the apples from turning brown and adds tartness to your filling.
When it comes to apples, baking apples such as Granny Smiths are often used in traditional apple pies because they keep their shape while baking and have a tangy taste that balances the sweetness of the filling. However, if you prefer sweeter apples or want to add more variety to your pie, try using Pink Lady, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn apples instead of Granny Smiths.
Switching things up with your crust can also make a significant difference in your apple pie’s taste and texture. A homemade all-butter crust enriched with milk and unsalted butter creates a tender yet flaky crust that complements the juicy apple filling. Alternatively, you can use shortcrust pastry or even a crumb topping for a Dutch Apple Pie twist.
For those who want to cut down on sugar intake, cutting down on granulated sugar by using brown sugar in your pie filling adds a rich caramel flavor and has more moisture due to its higher molasses content. Other variations include adding spices like nutmeg or ground cinnamon for an extra warmth of flavor or infusing vanilla extract into your pie crusts for an aromatic note.
The possibilities for customizing your traditional apple pie are endless when it comes to substitutions and variations! Try out these suggestions, and don’t be afraid to experiment with others to create your perfect version of this classic dessert.
Serving and Pairing
A warm and freshly baked apple pie is an all-time American classic, and whether it’s your first time or your go-to dessert, this recipe will make you wonder why you ever bought a store-bought pie. When the apple pie comes out of the oven, let it cool for at least 20-30 minutes before serving to let the filling set. You want it to be firm enough that it doesn’t fall apart when sliced but warm enough to be comforting and delicious.
You can serve it alone or pair it with a cold scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to offset the tartness of the apples in your homemade apple pie filling. I recommend trying it with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar for extra sweetness and flavor.
This apple pie is perfect for any occasion, from a family dinner to a holiday gathering. It’s also a crowd-pleaser at summer barbecues or potlucks. Cut your homemade apple pie into slices and serve on a plate, or wrap individual portions up in wax paper as an easy grab-and-go option.
When thinking about pairing drinks with traditional apple pie, there are plenty of options. Milk, coffee, and tea are classic choices, while some prefer a glass of cold milk with their warm slice of apple pie. Hard apple cider can also be served as an enjoyable beverage that elevates the flavors of the apple pie without overpowering them.
No matter how you decide to enjoy this traditional apple pie recipe, savor every bite and see why it’s one of America’s favorite desserts!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
A traditional apple pie is a perfect, heart-warming dessert that can be enjoyed anytime, anywhere. Even better, it’s a great recipe to make ahead of time and store for later or freeze to enjoy at your convenient time. When making an apple pie for future use, allow the pie to completely cool before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by foil. Be sure to label the pie with the name and date before placing it into the freezer.
To reheat, preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Remove the plastic wrap and cover with foil. Place the pie in the preheated oven for approximately 40-50 minutes, or until heated through. You might want to remove the foil in the last ten minutes of reheating so that your crust becomes crispy again.
When storing apple pies, they can last up to three days at room temperature. To extend the shelf life of your homemade apple pie, store it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and keep it in the fridge for up to five days.
Remember to let your pie cool completely before wrapping and storing; this will prevent condensation from forming inside the covering, making your crust soggy. Additionally, when reheating your traditional apple pie, always cover it with foil to prevent burning or over-browning on top.
Finally, an expert tip is to keep any leftover slices of apple pie wrapped in plastic wrap and stored in an airtight container. You can enjoy them as tasty treats or add some cream or ice cream for a quick fix dessert.
Tips for Perfect Results
Before diving into making the traditional apple pie recipe, it’s essential to learn some useful tips that can help you achieve a great apple pie. Here are some tips that I’ve learned from my experience in baking and testing different apple pie recipes.
Firstly, let’s talk about the dough or crust. It’s critical to keep the dough cold as it prevents the butter from melting before it spreads through the flour, forming flaky layers. Also, when rolling out the dough, use as little flour as possible to avoid toughening the pastry.
Secondly, choose tart apples such as Granny Smith. Why? Tart apples hold their shape better than sweet apples like Red Delicious, which turn into mushy consistency when baked. Plus, Granny Smith has a perfect balance of tartness and sweetness that makes it ideal for an apple pie.
Thirdly, don’t forget to add cornstarch or dry tapioca to help thicken the filling since apples release lots of juice while baking. Adding these ingredients helps prevent a soggy bottom crust and keep the filling firm but not rubbery.
Next, try mixing granulated sugar and brown sugar in your recipe. The granulated sugar gives a smooth texture to the filling while the brown sugar provides a caramel-like flavor adding richness to the pie filling.
Additionally, sprinkle a pinch of salt and add lemon juice to enhance flavors in your apple pie. Salt balances out sweetness while lemon juice brings freshness and prevents the apple slices from turning brown.
Lastly, make sure you let your baked apple pies cool down for at least 30 minutes before serving or slicing them up. This step allows time for settling juices inside without compromising its structure or breaking apart.
By following these tips above, you’re well on your way to making a great classic homemade apple pie with flaky crust and perfectly thickened fruit filling that will be sure to impress your guests!
FAQ
As we reach the ninth section of this recipe article, you may have some lingering questions about the traditional apple pie recipe. But don’t worry, we have got you covered. In this FAQ section, we’ll address some commonly asked queries to help you perfect your apple pie-making skills. So keep reading, and let’s clear up any doubts you may have.
Whats the trick to a great apple pie?
As a culinary adventurer, I’ve learned a few key tips when it comes to baking the perfect pie. The first and most important is to keep your ingredients cold. This is especially necessary when making the crust, as a warm dough will lead to a tough and chewy finished product. Another crucial step is to use an all-butter crust, which adds richness and depth of flavor that other fats can’t match.
To ensure the crust is easy to work with, I like to make a butter-flour paste beforehand. This can be done by simply mixing softened butter and flour together until a homogenous mixture forms. Some recipes may call for vodka to be added to the dough, but I find this step to be optional, depending on personal preference.
When it comes time to fold in the liquid, it’s important to use a spatula rather than a mixer. This method ensures that you don’t overwork the dough, which can lead to a dry and tough crust. Additionally, using tart apples will help balance out the sweetness of the filling, while going easy on the seasoning will allow the natural flavors of the fruit to shine.
To help prevent a soggy bottom, I recommend par-cooking your apples before adding them to the crust. This will remove excess moisture and ensure that your pie is crispy and flaky all the way through. With these tips in mind, you’re well on your way to baking a perfect pie that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Do you cook apples before putting them in a pie?
When it comes to making apple pie filling, it’s important to keep in mind that pre-cooking the apples is the key to achieving the perfect texture and flavor. Doing so will not only help balance out the sweetness, but also prevent any gaps between the crust and the filling. So, let’s dive in and start cooking some delicious apple pie!
What is the difference between traditional apple pie and Dutch apple pie?
In this article, we’ll delve into the key differences between two popular types of apple pies: Dutch apple pies and classic apple pies. By understanding the variations in their toppings, you’ll broaden your knowledge and appreciation of apple pies.
Why do you put lemon juice in apple pie?
When preparing apple-based desserts, it is common to see recommendations of adding a few drops of lemon juice to the sliced apples before baking. The reason behind this practice is to prevent the slices from browning. The lemon juice creates a layer that stops the air from penetrating the apples, which slows down the oxidization process that causes the fruit to turn brown.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, there are few desserts that can match the taste and appeal of a classic apple pie. Whether you’re looking for a dessert to serve for a special occasion or simply craving a sweet treat, this traditional apple pie recipe is sure to impress. With its deliciously flaky crust and sweet, cinnamon-spiced apple filling, it’s no wonder that apple pie has remained a beloved American classic for generations.
So why not give this classic recipe a try? With its simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, it’s the perfect way to get started on your culinary adventure. So go ahead and invite friends and family over, prepare a warm slice of homemade apple pie, and enjoy an experience in comfort food like no other.
Traditional Apple Pie Recipe
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup white sugar, if you like a sweet pie plus a little for dusting the top (or more)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/8 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
- 1 pinch salt
- 5 -6 cortland apples, McIntosh or 5 -6 any other baking apples
- 1 tablespoon fresh squeezed lemon juice
- 1 1/2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional) or 1 1/2 tablespoons dry tapioca (optional)
- 1 pastry for a double-crust 9-inch pie, bottom crust fitted into a 9 inch pie plate and top crust transferred to a rimless baking sheet, bot
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into bits
- milk, as needed
Instructions
- Toss together the sugars, spices, and salt. Peel and core the apples and cut them into 1/2 to 3/4 inch slices. Toss the apples with the lemon juice and the dry ingredients, adding the cornstarch or the tapioca if you want a less runny pie.
- Pile the apples into the rolled out bottom crust, making the pile higher in the center than at the edges. Dot with butter. Cover with the top crust. Decorate the edges with a fork or your fingers, using any method you choose. Refrigerate while you preheat the oven to 450.
- Place the pie on a cookie sheet and brush the top lightly with milk; sprinkle with sugar. Use a sharp paring knife to cut two or three 2 inch long vent holes in the top crust. This will allow steam to escape. Place in oven for 10 minutes. Reduce oven temperature to 350 and bake another 40 to 50 minutes, or until the pie is golden brown. Do not underbake. Cool on the rack before serving to room temperature.
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Mishra Vikas is a digital nomad who loves to explore the world and learn about its cultures. As a programmer, backpacker, and cook, he enjoys sharing his adventures and cooking up delectable dishes. Writing about his experiences, creating tasty recipes, and discovering new places are some of his favorite activities. He’s an avid traveler and passionate chef, always on the lookout for an exciting new journey.