Apple Pie is a timeless classic, cherished for its combination of tender, juicy apples and a buttery, flaky crust. This recipe uses fresh apples, a blend of sugar and spices, and a rich custard-like filling to create a pie that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting, this detailed guide will help you create a delicious apple pie that’s sure to impress. Let’s dive into the recipe and see how to create this delightful dessert step-by-step.
Ingredients
For the Apple Filling:
- 3 apples (about 700g), preferably Granny Smith or Honeycrisp
- 150 grams of sugar
- A pinch of salt
For the Pie Crust:
- 300 grams of all-purpose flour
- 80 grams of melted butter
- 10 grams of baking powder
- 3 large eggs
- 180 ml of milk
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Apples
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Peel and Slice Apples: Peel the apples, core them, and slice them thinly. Set the apple slices aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Pie Crust
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Stir well to evenly distribute the baking powder.
- Add Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, eggs, and milk until well combined.
- Combine Ingredients: Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until a dough forms. The dough should be smooth and slightly sticky.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
- Roll Out Dough: Divide the dough into two equal parts. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one half of the dough to fit the bottom of your pie dish. Transfer the dough to the pie dish, pressing it gently into the corners and sides.
- Add Apple Filling: Arrange the sliced apples evenly over the crust in the pie dish. Sprinkle the sugar over the apples, ensuring even coverage to enhance their natural sweetness.
- Top with Dough: Roll out the second half of the dough and place it over the apples. Trim any excess dough and crimp the edges to seal. Cut a few small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
Step 4: Bake the Pie
- Bake: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
- Cool: Remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps the filling set and makes slicing easier.
Serving Suggestions
- Warm or Cold: Apple pie can be served warm or cold, depending on your preference. For a special treat, serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
- Custard Sauce: Drizzle some warm custard sauce over a slice of apple pie for an extra layer of indulgence.
Cooking Notes
- Apple Variety: Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples are ideal for baking due to their firmness and balanced sweetness. However, you can mix different varieties for a more complex flavor.
- Crust Tips: Ensure your butter is melted but not hot when mixing the dough. This will help achieve a tender, flaky crust. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour until it reaches the right consistency.
- Baking Time: Keep an eye on the pie during the last 10 minutes of baking. If the crust is browning too quickly, cover it with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the dough up to 2 days in advance. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. Let it come to room temperature before rolling out.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover apple pie in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat slices in the oven or microwave before serving.
Q: Can I freeze apple pie? A: Yes, apple pie freezes well. Wrap the baked pie tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the oven.
Keto/Low Carb Version
To make a keto or low-carb version of this apple pie, follow these modifications:
- Crust: Use almond flour or coconut flour instead of all-purpose flour. Substitute the sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener like erythritol.
- Filling: Replace apples with a low-carb alternative like zucchini or chayote squash, seasoned with apple pie spice and sweetened with a keto-friendly sweetener.
Apple Pie is a timeless dessert that brings warmth and comfort with every bite. This recipe, with its tender apples and rich, flaky crust, is perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to holiday celebrations. Try this recipe today and enjoy a slice of homemade goodness that’s sure to impress!
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