The Ultimate Apple Pie Recipe: A Timeless Classic Worth Baking

Introduction

Apple pie is a timeless dessert that combines the sweetness of apples with a flaky, buttery crust. This classic recipe will guide you through creating the perfect apple pie, sure to be a hit at any gathering.

Ingredients

For the Pie Crust:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/2 cup ice water

For the Filling:

• 6 cups peeled, cored, and sliced apples (a mix of tart and sweet varieties)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, cut into small pieces

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pie Crust

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, granulated sugar, and salt.
2. Add cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture.
3. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Gradually add ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing gently, until the dough just comes together.
5. Divide the dough in half, shape each into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

2. Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

3. Prepare the Filling

1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, lemon juice, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Toss until the apples are evenly coated.

4. Roll Out the Pie Crust

1. Take one disc of dough from the refrigerator and roll it out on a lightly floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Place the rolled dough into the pie dish, trimming any excess and crimping the edges.

5. Fill the Pie

1. Place the prepared apple filling into the pie crust-lined dish.
2. Dot the top of the filling with small pieces of butter.

6. Top with the Second Crust

1. Roll out the second disc of dough and carefully place it over the apple filling.
2. Trim any excess dough and seal the edges by crimping with a fork or pinching with your fingers.
3. Cut a few slits on top of the pie to allow steam to escape.

7. Bake the Pie

1. Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any spills and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes.
2. Reduce the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and continue baking for another 40-45 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.

8. Cool and Serve

1. Allow the pie to cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours before slicing and serving.
2. Serve warm or at room temperature, optionally topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

Enjoy this classic apple pie with its perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors!