Classic Apple Pie Recipe
Cook Time: 55 minutes
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 8
Description: This delightful apple pie recipe, sourced from “The Practical Encyclopedia of Baking,” transforms the classic dessert by using sweet Red Delicious apples instead of the traditional tart varieties. This modification results in a perfectly balanced pie that’s both sweet and comforting, ideal for any occasion. With a buttery crust and a spiced apple filling, it’s a family-friendly treat that’s sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup shortening
- 4 to 5 tablespoons cold water
- 6 medium Red Delicious apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon butter, cut into small pieces
- 1 egg, beaten
Instructions:
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Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 450°F (230°C). This initial high temperature will help achieve a golden, crisp crust.
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Prepare the Dough:
- In a large bowl, sift together 2 cups of flour and 1 teaspoon of salt.
- Cut in ¾ cup of shortening using a pastry cutter or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add cold water, 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together and forms a ball.
- Divide the dough into two equal portions. Roll out one portion on a lightly floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie pan. Carefully place it into the pan, pressing it gently into the bottom and sides.
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Prepare the Top Crust:
- Roll out the second portion of dough and cut it into leaf shapes using a cookie cutter or knife. Create smaller leaves for the edges and larger ones for the center of the pie.
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Make the Filling:
- In a large bowl, toss the sliced apples with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice to prevent browning.
- Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, ½ cup of granulated sugar, and 1½ teaspoons of ground cinnamon. Mix until the apples are evenly coated.
- Pour the apple mixture into the prepared pie crust and dot with small pieces of butter.
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Assemble the Pie:
- Arrange the leaf cutouts over the top of the pie, overlapping slightly and ensuring to cover the edges. Brush the leaves with the beaten egg to give them a shiny, golden finish.
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Bake the Pie:
- Bake in the preheated oven at 450°F (230°C) for 10 minutes to set the crust.
- Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for 35 to 45 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. If the crust edges start to brown too quickly, cover them with aluminum foil.
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Cool:
- Allow the pie to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before serving. This helps the filling set and makes it easier to slice.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 411.2
- Fat Content: 22.4g
- Saturated Fat Content: 6.4g
- Cholesterol Content: 32.2mg
- Sodium Content: 316.6mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 49.7g
- Fiber Content: 3.2g
- Sugar Content: 22.5g
- Protein Content: 4.3g
Enjoy this scrumptious homemade apple pie that’s sure to bring smiles to your family and friends! 🍏🥧
