Classic Apple Pie Recipe – A Delicious Dessert for Every Occasion
Category: Desserts
Servings: 8
Prep Time: 45 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Butter (cold, cut into pieces) | 225g |
| All-purpose flour | 450g |
| Salt | 1 pinch |
| Ice water | 100g |
| Granny Smith apples | 1kg (about 6-8 medium apples) |
| Lemon | 1 (for soaking apples) |
| Sugar | 100g |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 teaspoon |
| Nutmeg (freshly grated) | to taste |
| Water | 2 tablespoons |
| Whole milk | as needed (for brushing the pie) |
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
To begin making your classic apple pie, start by preparing the pie dough. In the bowl of a stand mixer (planetary mixer), place the cold butter (cut into small pieces), all-purpose flour, and a pinch of salt. Attach the paddle attachment and begin mixing the ingredients on a low speed. Gradually add the ice water, and continue mixing for a few seconds until the dough begins to come together, though it will be somewhat rough.
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it gently by hand for about 8 to 10 minutes, until it forms a smooth ball. Once ready, wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes to firm up and make it easier to roll out.
Step 2: Prepare the Apple Filling
While the dough chills, it’s time to prepare the apple filling. Start by washing, peeling, and coring the apples. Slice them into wedges or thin slices, depending on your preference. To prevent the apples from turning brown, place them in a bowl of cold water with the juice of one lemon. Set the apples aside to soak.
Next, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the sugar and cinnamon to the pan, followed by a pinch of freshly grated nutmeg. Add 2 tablespoons of water to the mixture and stir to combine. Let the sugar dissolve and the mixture start to bubble, creating a fragrant syrup.
Add the apples to the pan, along with the zest of the lemon, and toss to coat. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, allowing the apples to soften slightly on the outside while still maintaining a crisp texture inside. Once done, remove the pan from the heat and let the filling cool while you prepare the pie shell.
Step 3: Assemble the Apple Pie
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Lightly grease a 25cm (10-inch) round pie dish with butter. If you don’t have a fluted pie dish, you can use a regular, smooth-edged pie dish.
Once the dough has rested, remove it from the refrigerator and divide it into two equal portions. One portion should be slightly larger than the other. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the larger portion of dough into a round shape, about 5mm (1/4 inch) thick. Wrap the rolled dough around your rolling pin and carefully transfer it to the prepared pie dish, gently pressing it into place.
Now, evenly distribute the apple filling into the pie crust, mounding it slightly in the center to create the classic apple pie shape. Add a few small pats of butter on top of the apples for added richness.
Step 4: Top the Pie
Roll out the second portion of dough to match the size of the first. Drape it over the apple filling, sealing the edges by pressing the dough with your fingers. Trim off any excess dough and fold the edges under, crimping them to form a decorative border.
To give the pie a golden finish, brush the top crust with a light coating of whole milk. This will create a beautifully shiny and golden crust when baked.
Step 5: Bake the Apple Pie
Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for about 45-60 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. You may want to check the pie halfway through baking and cover the edges with aluminum foil if they start to brown too quickly.
Once baked, remove the apple pie from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving. This pie is delicious served warm, but it also pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
Tips for a Perfect Apple Pie
- Choose the Right Apples: For the best flavor and texture, use tart apples such as Granny Smith, which hold their shape well during baking and balance the sweetness of the sugar.
- Chill the Dough: Resting the dough in the fridge not only makes it easier to roll out, but it also results in a flakier, more tender crust.
- Pre-bake for Extra Crunch: If you prefer a slightly crispier bottom crust, you can bake the crust for 10 minutes before adding the apple filling. This will help prevent sogginess.
- Make It Ahead: You can prepare the apple pie in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it. This can save time on busy days, especially during the holidays.
This classic apple pie recipe is perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to holiday feasts. The combination of tender, spiced apples and a buttery, flaky crust is sure to impress everyone at the table. So, roll up your sleeves, grab some fresh apples, and get ready to bake a pie that will become a new favorite in your dessert rotation. Happy baking!
