Welcome to the world of Grandma Ople’s Famous Apple Pie, where the aroma of cinnamon-spiced apples and buttery crust fills the air, evoking memories of family gatherings and cozy evenings by the fireplace. In this recipe, we pay homage to a beloved classic that has been passed down through generations, bringing joy to countless homes with its irresistible flavors and comforting warmth. Join us as we embark on a journey to recreate this iconic dessert, step by step, and discover why it has earned its place as a timeless tradition in kitchens around the world.
The Legacy of Grandma Ople’s Pie:
Grandma Ople’s Famous Apple Pie is more than just a dessert – it’s a symbol of love, tradition, and the joy of sharing homemade treats with those we hold dear. Named after the matriarch of the family who first crafted this recipe, it has been handed down from one generation to the next, each baker adding their own unique touch to the time-honored tradition. With its flaky crust, tender apples, and decadent caramel sauce, this pie embodies the essence of home and hearth, bringing comfort and happiness with every slice.
Ingredients:
- 1 recipe for 9-inch double pie crust, or store-bought
- 8 Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/2 cup white sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- Few dashes of nutmeg (optional)
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- Reduced the water by 1 tablespoon
Instructions:
- Prepare the Pie Crust:
- Start by preparing your pie crust according to your preferred recipe or using a store-bought option. Roll out the dough and line a 9-inch pie dish with one of the crusts, reserving the other for the top crust. Set aside while you prepare the filling.
- Slice the Apples:
- Peel, core, and slice the Granny Smith apples into thin, even slices. This ensures that the apples cook evenly and create a luscious filling for the pie.
- Make the Caramel Sauce:
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Once melted, add the all-purpose flour and whisk until smooth, creating a roux. Gradually pour in the water, white sugar, and brown sugar, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and becomes smooth and glossy.
- Enhance with Spices:
- For an extra layer of flavor, add the optional cinnamon and nutmeg to the caramel sauce, stirring until well combined. These warm spices complement the sweetness of the apples and add depth to the filling.
- Combine Apples and Sauce:
- Place the sliced apples in the prepared pie crust, arranging them in an even layer. Pour the caramel sauce over the apples, ensuring that they are fully coated and the sauce is evenly distributed.
- Add the Top Crust:
- Carefully place the second pie crust on top of the apple filling, crimping the edges to seal the pie. Use a sharp knife to make a few slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking.
- Bake to Perfection:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and bake the pie for 15 minutes. Then, reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for an additional 35 to 40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
- Cool and Serve:
- Allow the pie to cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before slicing and serving. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for the perfect finishing touch.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Add Nuts: For added texture and flavor, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the caramel sauce before adding the top crust. The nuts will toast as the pie bakes, adding a delightful crunch to each bite.
- Experiment with Apples: While Granny Smith apples are traditional for apple pie due to their tartness and firm texture, feel free to experiment with other apple varieties such as Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala for a unique twist on this classic dessert.
- Drizzle with Caramel Sauce: For an extra indulgent treat, drizzle the cooled pie with additional caramel sauce just before serving. This adds an extra layer of sweetness and richness that takes Grandma Ople’s pie to the next level.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
Keto Version:
- To make a keto-friendly version of Grandma Ople’s pie, substitute the sugars with a low-carb sweetener such as erythritol or monk fruit sweetener. You can also use almond flour in place of all-purpose flour for the caramel sauce.
Low-Carb Version:
- Follow the keto version instructions above, adjusting the ingredients and portion sizes to fit your low-carb dietary preferences. Serve the pie with a sugar-free whipped cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt for a satisfying low-carb dessert option.
Grandma Ople’s Famous Apple Pie is more than just a dessert – it’s a symbol of tradition, love, and the joy of homemade baking. Whether enjoyed on a cozy autumn evening or shared with loved ones during the holidays, this iconic pie brings comfort and happiness with every bite. With its flaky crust, tender apples, and irresistible caramel sauce, it’s no wonder that this recipe has stood the test of time and continues to be cherished by generations. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and prepare to create memories that will last a lifetime with Grandma Ople’s Famous Apple Pie.
