Green Apple Pie: A Timeless Classic for Every Occasion
This Green Apple Pie recipe hails from a beloved cookbook of a tea room that was once a gathering spot for Tulsa’s fashionable lunching ladies in the 1950s and 1960s. The tea room, named Brown-Dunkin, later transformed into the Dillard’s Department store, but its legacy lives on through this cherished dessert. Known for its delicate balance of tart green apples and buttery crust, this pie is perfect for holidays like Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any time you’re craving a warm, homemade dessert. With its rich history and comforting flavor, it’s no wonder this pie has remained a local favorite.
Ingredients for Green Apple Pie
The following ingredients are used to create a delightful green apple pie with a flaky, golden crust and a flavorful filling that will remind you of the classic pies from yesteryear.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Sugar | ½ cup |
| Shortening | 1 cup |
| Tart green apples | 6–8 apples |
| Butter | 2 tablespoons |
| Water | 1/4 cup |
| Lemon juice | 1 tablespoon |
| Sugar | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon |
| All-purpose flour | 2 tablespoons |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 teaspoon |
Nutritional Information
This pie is a decadent treat with a blend of rich flavors. Here’s the nutritional breakdown for the entire pie.
| Nutritional Information | Amount (per entire pie) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 4337 kcal |
| Total Fat | 232.5 g |
| Saturated Fat | 66.6 g |
| Cholesterol | 61.1 mg |
| Sodium | 1968.4 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 557 g |
| Fiber | 34.1 g |
| Sugar | 316.1 g |
| Protein | 30.6 g |
Equipment Needed
- 9-inch pie pan
- Rolling pin
- Pastry cutter or food processor (for making the crust)
- Sifter for dry ingredients
- Aluminum foil (optional)
Instructions for Green Apple Pie
Step 1: Prepare the Pastry
- In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt for the crust. Using a pastry cutter or a fork, cut in the shortening until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This will ensure a flaky, buttery texture once baked.
- Slowly add water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough just begins to come together. Be careful not to overwork the dough—this will keep the crust tender.
- Divide the dough in half and roll each half into a ball. Wrap each ball in plastic wrap and chill them in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the dough will make it easier to roll out and handle.
Step 2: Roll Out and Line the Pie Pan
- After chilling, take one of the dough portions and roll it out on a floured surface until it is large enough to fit the bottom of a 9-inch pie pan.
- Carefully transfer the rolled dough into the pie pan, gently pressing it into place. Trim any excess dough around the edges to make room for the top crust.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
- Peel and slice the green apples thinly and evenly. Arrange the apple slices into the prepared pie shell, filling it generously.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the sugar, salt, flour, and cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the apples.
- Pour water and lemon juice over the apples, and dot the top with small pieces of butter to enhance the flavor and ensure a golden, bubbly filling.
Step 4: Top and Seal the Pie
- Roll out the second portion of dough and carefully place it over the pie, sealing the edges by pinching them together with your fingers or a fork. If desired, create small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking.
- If you prefer, you can decorate the top with a lattice pattern or other decorative touches for an extra special touch.
Step 5: Bake the Pie
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Once the oven is heated, place the pie in the oven and bake it for 45 minutes or until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbling.
- If the crust begins to darken too quickly before the pie is fully cooked, cover the edges of the crust with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning.
- For those seeking the perfect texture, if you prefer a different baking method, you can try the other recommended baking times: bake at 375°F (190°C) for 40 minutes, 450°F (230°C) for 10 minutes, or 400°F (200°C) for 50 minutes.
Step 6: Enjoy Your Green Apple Pie
Once the pie is golden brown and the apples are tender, remove it from the oven and let it cool before serving. This pie is best enjoyed when still slightly warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The perfect balance of tart apples and sweet, buttery crust will surely delight your family and guests.
Tips for Success
- Chill the dough: Don’t skip the chilling step. This helps prevent the dough from becoming too soft and difficult to handle.
- Use tart apples: Green apples, such as Granny Smith, provide the perfect tartness to balance the sweetness of the sugar and cinnamon.
- Handle the dough gently: Since the dough is rich, handle it with care to maintain its delicate, flaky texture.
Conclusion
This Green Apple Pie recipe brings back a piece of history with every bite, offering a taste of Tulsa’s past while delivering a delightful and timeless dessert. Whether you’re preparing for the holidays or simply craving a comforting slice, this pie is sure to impress with its buttery, flaky crust and sweet-tart filling. Serve it at your next gathering, and you’ll quickly see why it was a favorite of fashionable ladies from a bygone era.
By following these detailed steps, you’ll make a Green Apple Pie that captures the essence of the old Brown-Dunkin tea room. It’s a pie full of tradition and flavor, making it a perfect choice for any special occasion. Enjoy this classic dessert, and savor the flavors of a sweet, nostalgic time!
