Homemade Apple Pie Recipe

Apple pie is a classic dessert that warms the heart and brings a sense of nostalgia to every bite. Its comforting aroma of baked apples and cinnamon fills the kitchen with the essence of home. Whether you’re baking it for a family gathering or to enjoy with a scoop of ice cream, this homemade apple pie recipe will surely become a favorite.

Ingredients:

For the crust:

• 2 ½ cups (310g) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, chilled and diced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 6-8 tablespoons ice water

For the filling:

• 6-7 medium-sized apples (a mix of tart and sweet varieties like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp)
• ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
• ¼ cup (55g) brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for thickening)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (optional, for dotting the filling)

For the topping (optional):

• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• 1 tablespoon sugar (for sprinkling)

Instructions:

Step 1: Make the crust

1. In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar.
2. Add chilled butter pieces and mix using a pastry cutter or your hands until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough just comes together.
4. Divide the dough in half, shape into discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 1 hour.

Step 2: Prepare the filling

1. Peel, core, and slice the apples into thin slices.
2. In a large bowl, combine the apples with sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, flour, and lemon juice. Mix well and set aside.

Step 3: Assemble the pie

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out one dough disc on a floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Place the crust into the dish and trim the edges.
3. Add the apple filling, spreading evenly. Dot the filling with small pieces of butter if desired.
4. Roll out the second dough disc and place it over the filling. Seal and crimp the edges. Cut a few slits on top for steam to escape.
5. Brush the top with beaten egg and sprinkle with sugar.

Step 4: Bake the pie

1. Place the pie on the middle rack of the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
2. Let the pie cool for at least 2 hours before serving.

Tips for the Perfect Apple Pie:

1. Choose the right apples: Use a mix of tart and sweet apples for a balanced flavor.
2. Keep the butter cold: This ensures a flaky crust.
3. Don’t skip the chilling: Chilling the dough prevents shrinkage while baking.
4. Adjust sweetness: Depending on the apples’ natural sweetness, you may need to adjust the sugar.
5. Protect the edges: Cover the crust edges with foil if they brown too quickly.

Conclusion:

This homemade apple pie is a timeless dessert that’s simple to prepare yet incredibly rewarding. The harmony of buttery crust and spiced apples makes it a perfect treat for any occasion. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, and enjoy the comfort of homemade goodness.