classic apple pie

Here’s a recipe for a classic apple pie with a flaky, buttery crust and a spiced apple filling. Perfect for any occasion, this traditional dessert is sure to impress.

Classic Apple Pie

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, chilled and cut into small pieces
• 1/4 to 1/2 cup ice water

For the Filling:

• 6-7 cups peeled, cored, and thinly sliced apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix)
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

For the Top:

• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (optional, for sprinkling)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Crust:
   • In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and sugar.
   • Add the chilled butter pieces and use a pastry cutter or your hands to cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
   • Gradually add the ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, and mix until the dough starts to come together. Do not overmix.
   • Divide the dough in half, shape into discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
2. Prepare the Filling:
   • In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, lemon juice, flour, and cornstarch. Toss until the apples are evenly coated. Let the mixture sit for about 15 minutes.
3. Assemble the Pie:
   • Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
   • On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disc of dough to fit a 9-inch pie dish, leaving about 1 inch of overhang. Place the dough in the pie dish.
   • Fill the crust with the apple mixture, mounding it slightly in the center.
   • Roll out the second disc of dough and place it over the filling. Trim any excess dough, leaving about 1 inch overhang. Fold the top and bottom crusts together and crimp the edges to seal.
   • Cut a few small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
4. Bake the Pie:
   • Brush the top crust with the beaten egg and sprinkle with granulated sugar if desired.
   • Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips and bake for 20 minutes at 425°F (220°C). Then, reduce the temperature to 375°F (190°C) and bake for an additional 40-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
5. Cool and Serve:
   • Allow the pie to cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours before serving. This helps the filling set.
   • Serve warm or at room temperature, optionally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

Enjoy your classic apple pie! This timeless dessert is sure to be a hit with family and friends.