Prepare to embark on a journey of nostalgia and pure comfort with our Apple Pie in a Brown Paper Bag. This classic recipe brings together the warmth of cinnamon, the tartness of Granny Smith apples, and the sweetness of a flaky crust. What sets this apple pie apart? Baking it in a brown paper bag! This method creates an environment that locks in moisture and ensures a perfectly baked, golden-brown crust. Join us as we unravel the secrets to creating this homestyle dessert that is as delightful to make as it is to savor.
Ingredients
Produce
- 1 pinch Ginger, ground
- 5 lbs Granny Smith apples
Condiments
- 2 tbsp Lemon juice
Baking & Spices
- 1/2 cup Brown sugar
- 1 tsp Cinnamon, ground
- 1 5/8 cup Flour
- 1/2 tsp Nutmeg, ground
- 1/2 cup Superfine sugar
- 1 1/2 tsp White sugar
Snacks
- 2 tbsp Graham cracker crumbs
Dairy
- 6 tbsp Butter, unsalted
- 1/2 cup Butter
Liquids
- 2 1/2 tbsp Water
Other
- 2 12×30-inch pieces of parchment paper
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Apples:
- Peel, core, and slice the Granny Smith apples into thin, even slices.
- Create the Filling:
- In a large bowl, combine the apple slices with lemon juice, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of ground ginger. Toss until the apples are evenly coated.
- Make the Crust:
- In a separate bowl, mix flour and superfine sugar. Cut in cold, unsalted butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Form the Pie Crust:
- Press half of the crust mixture into the bottom of a pie dish to form the base.
- Layer the Apples:
- Arrange the seasoned apple slices over the crust, creating an even layer.
- Top with Crumbs:
- Sprinkle the remaining crust mixture over the apples, creating a crumbly topping.
- Create a Crust Shield:
- Cut a piece of parchment paper into a 12×30-inch strip. Fold it in half lengthwise and wrap it around the edge of the pie to create a crust shield.
- Bag it Up:
- Place the pie, still in the pie dish, into a large brown paper bag. Fold the open end of the bag closed.
- Bake in the Bag:
- Place the bagged pie on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour.
- Remove the Bag:
- Carefully remove the pie from the oven, taking care not to touch the hot bag. Cut open the bag and discard it.
- Final Touch:
- Sprinkle the top of the pie with a mixture of white sugar and graham cracker crumbs. Return the pie to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
- Cool and Serve:
- Allow the pie to cool before slicing. Serve warm, and savor the delightful combination of flavors.
Cook Notes and Variations
- Nuts and Raisins: Enhance the filling by adding chopped nuts or raisins for added texture and sweetness.
- Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle caramel sauce over the sliced pie for an extra touch of indulgence.
- Apple Varieties: Experiment with a mix of apple varieties for a nuanced flavor profile.
Keto Versions
For a keto-friendly adaptation, replace the flour with almond flour and use a sugar substitute like erythritol or monk fruit. Adjust the quantities to align with your low-carb preferences.
Low Carb Version
Create a low-carb version by using a combination of almond flour and coconut flour for the crust. Substitute sweeteners like erythritol for the sugars in the filling.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Why bake the pie in a brown paper bag?
- A1: Baking in a bag creates a steamy environment, keeping the pie moist and ensuring a beautifully browned crust.
Q2: Can I use a different type of apple?
- A2: While Granny Smith apples offer a perfect balance of tartness, feel free to experiment with other varieties based on your preference.
Q3: What does the crust shield do?
- A3: The parchment paper crust shield protects the edges of the pie from over-browning during the initial stages of baking.
Q4: Can I reuse the paper bag?
- A4: It’s not recommended to reuse the paper bag due to safety concerns. Always use a new bag for baking.
Q5: Can I freeze the pie?
- A5: Yes, you can freeze the unbaked pie. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
Delight in the homely aroma of freshly baked Apple Pie in a Brown Paper Bag – a dessert that encapsulates the essence of comfort and tradition. The unique method of baking in a bag preserves the juiciness of the apples and results in a pie with a perfectly golden crust. Customize it to your liking, explore the keto and low-carb options, and savor each bite of this timeless treat. As you share this pie with loved ones, let it become a cherished memory and a symbol of the joy found in simple, homemade pleasures.
