Best Apple Pie Recipe

Apple pie on the parchment

Apple pie is a classic dessert that has been enjoyed for centuries. It typically consists of a sweet apple filling and a flaky, buttery crust. There are many variations of apple pie, including Dutch apple pie, French apple pie, and caramel apple pie.
Here is a detailed recipe for the best apple pie recipe:

Serving size and preparation time:

This best apple pie recipe makes 8 servings. The preparation time for the crust and filling is approximately 30 minutes, plus an additional 1 hour for chilling the dough. The baking time for the pie is approximately 45-55 minutes, and it’s recommended to let it cool for at least 1 hour before serving. So, the total time required to make this recipe is approximately 2-3 hours, depending on the amount of time needed for the dough to chill.

Ingredients:

For the crust:

  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp granulated sugar
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
  • 1/4-1/2 cup ice water

For the filling:

  • 6 cups sliced, peeled and cored apples (about 6-7 medium apples)
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 1 tbsp granulated sugar

Directions:

For the crust:

  1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and sugar until combined.
  2. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, cut the chilled butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
  3. Gradually add the ice water, a tablespoon at a time, until the mixture comes together in a dough.
  4. Divide the dough into two equal portions, shape into discs, wrap with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

For the filling:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, toss together the sliced apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
  3. Roll out one portion of the chilled dough on a floured surface to about 12 inches in diameter. Carefully transfer the dough to a 9-inch pie dish and trim the edges to about 1/2 inch overhang.
  4. Pour the apple mixture into the pie dish and dot with small pieces of unsalted butter.
  5. Roll out the second portion of the chilled dough on a floured surface to about 12 inches in diameter. Carefully lay it over the apple filling and trim the edges to about 1 inch overhang. Fold the top crust under the bottom crust and crimp the edges together to seal.
  6. Cut slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking. Brush the top crust with the beaten egg and sprinkle with granulated sugar.
  7. Bake the pie for 45-55 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
  8. Allow the pie to cool on a wire rack for at least 1 hour before serving.

Note: You can serve it with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream if desired.

Why apple pie is famous?

Apple pie is famous for several reasons, some of which include:

  1. Cultural Significance: Apple pie is a traditional American dessert that has been a part of American culture for centuries. It is often associated with patriotism, home, and family, and has become an iconic symbol of American cuisine.
  2. Delicious Taste: Apple pie is loved for its delicious taste and comforting aroma. The combination of sweet, tart apples with warm cinnamon and buttery crust creates a perfect flavor combination that is loved by many.
  3. Versatility: Apple pie can be enjoyed as a dessert, a breakfast treat, or even as a snack. It can be served with ice cream, whipped cream, or even a slice of cheddar cheese.
  4. Seasonal Availability: Apples are readily available during the fall season, and apple pie is a perfect way to showcase the abundance of fresh, ripe apples during this time.
  5. Nostalgia: Many people have fond memories of enjoying apple pie with their family and friends during holidays and special occasions. The nostalgic feeling associated with apple pie adds to its popularity and appeal.

Overall, apple pie is a beloved dessert that has stood the test of time due to its cultural significance, delicious taste, versatility, seasonal availability, and nostalgia.